The Story Book Trail is an almost mile-long, out-and-back wheel-chair accessible trail on Masanutten Mountain, leading to an overlook revealing the Page Valley and Route 211 below.
The trail gently heads up hill under tree-cover the entire way. With boardwalks in places and a paved trail, you can walk it in your flip-flops. Along the path, a series of interpretive signs describe the geology and flora of the area.
The trail head is marked by a large sign and there’s plenty of parking, but the trail gets popular and parking can get tight at times.
At the end of the trail, a viewing platform opens up a spectacular vista over the valley across to the mountains of Shenandoah National Park.
For an even better view, don’t miss following a rocky footpath to the right of the platform. It leads to a rock shelf overlooking the valley.
Know before you go: Have lunch with a million dollar view. In the nearby town of New Market, VA, grab a lunch to go from Jackson Corner Cafe (9386 S Congress St, New Market, VA 22844) or pack your own picnic and bring it along on the Story Book Trail with you (just be sure to pack out all your garbage afterward).
Getting there: Reach the trail head by turning on to Crisman Hollow Road (FD 274) off of 211 near Luray. Continue on this road for about a mile and park in a small lot off to the right. A wooden footbridge and trail marker marks the trailhead.
Hours: Dawn to dusk.
