The North Fork of the Shenandoah River
The River That Connects Us.
At a Glance
116 Miles
1,034 Square Mile Watershed
3 Counties
Source
German River & Crab Run
Destination
Joins the South Fork at Front Royal
Home to
Otters, Eagles, Smallmouth Bass, and Hundreds of Native Species
Experience the North Fork
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Paddle
Explore scenic stretches of river with gentle rapids, mountain views, and winding bends.
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Fish
Cast a line for smallmouth bass, sunfish, catfish, and other native fish in one of Virginia's most scenic rivers.
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Explore
Hike scenic trails, paddle the river, watch for wildlife, and experience one of Virginia's most beautiful state parks.
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Watch Wildlife
From playful river otters to soaring bald eagles, the North Fork is home to wildlife around every bend.
The Famous Seven Bends
The North Fork didn't choose its winding path by accident. Millions of years of mountain building, erosion, and fractured bedrock shaped one of Virginia's most recognizable river landscapes. Today, the Seven Bends remain one of the Shenandoah Valley's most treasured places.
Why We Protect It
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💧 Drinking Water
The North Fork provides clean drinking water for thousands of people across the Shenandoah Valley.
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🌿 Healthy Habitat
A healthy river supports native fish, freshwater mussels, river otters, birds, and countless other species.
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❤️ Recreation & Community
The North Fork brings people together through paddling, fishing, hiking, education, and community events.
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📚 Education & Stewardship
Students and volunteers learn by exploring the river, collecting data, and helping protect the watershed.
