2013 Map of Big Meadows

About this map

Shenandoah National Park dominates this portion of the Blue Ridge, where the high-altitude plateau of Big Meadows serves as a central landmark for the surrounding wilderness. The terrain is defined by dramatic changes in elevation, featuring numerous waterfalls such as Dark Hollow Falls, Lewis Spring Falls, and Rose River Falls. Along the western slopes and valley floors, long-established settlements like Marksville, Blaineville, and Cavetown anchor the local road network. The map detail reflects the transition from agricultural valley life to the protected lands of the park, capturing family-named landmarks like Hershberger Hill and Varner Hill. Notable hiking and recreation sites, including the Byrds Nest Number 2 Shelter and the overlooks at Franklin Cliffs, are shown alongside the winding course of the Skyline Drive. This survey documents the intersection of rural Virginia community history with the established boundaries of one of the East Coast’s most prominent protected landscapes.