Welcome to Linden, Virginia & the Historic Cherry Hill Schoolhouse

In 1937, geologists around the world stood in awe as Walter S. Amos discovered the underground wonder he always hoped to uncover. He carefully examined surface topography, exposing a secret that had lain beneath the earth’s surface for 60 million years. This method of scientific analysis makes the discovery of Skyline Caverns rare, if not unique. Learn more.

Distance from the Schoolhouse: 11.7 miles

This area is home to some of the most famous and spectacular hiking trails in the United States; access the Shenandoah National Park at the Front Royal entrance just 11 miles away from the schoolhouse. Take a scenic ride along Skyline Drive and the Blue Ridge Mountains, or ramp up the adventure on one of the many hiking trails. Learn more. 

Distance from the Schoolhouse: 11 miles

A beautiful out and back hike on the Appalachian Trail passing through  fields, streams, lush forest, and the Jim and Molly Denton Shelter. Trumbo Hollow is an expansive meadow with a bench at the high point. With fields and fences that make you feel like you're in a J.R.R. Tolkien novel the hike down towards VA638 is one more Kodak moment. From the valley enjoy another forest walk before arriving at the Jim and Molly Denton Shelter which boasts a picnic pavilion and gravity fed shower. Learn more.

Distance from the Schoolhouse to Trumbo Hollow Trailhead: 4.7 miles

Distance from the Schoolhouse to the VA638 crossing: 2.7 miles

Note about the "VA638 crossing" of the trail -- this is  close to the schoolhouse, on the same road as Linden Vineyards, and you'll probably see some hikers on 638 in good weather! However, it is not so much of a trailhead as it is a meadowy crossing with 2 small grassy parking spots; that being said, we almost never seen anyone parked there, so you may be able to do so easily and this would shorten the hike to the shelter significantly if that is desired. See the link above "learn more" which has a mile-by-mile description of both access points.

Established in 1878 and a leisurely walk from the schoolhouse, be sure to check out this historical building and parish. From the house, walk down Mt Paran Church Road; you'll see a historical graveyard from the Baltimore family dating back to the early 1800's (what is the earliest stone you find in there?) and ends at the church building which sits on beautiful grounds. 

We've left information in the basket on the wall by the front door inside the schoolhouse on local eggs and sausage available from our awesome neighbors on Mt Paran Church Road right before the church!

Distance from the Schoolhouse: 0.3 miles

Oh Shenandoah, I long to hear you, Away you rolling river...

No need daydream for the river when you are at the schoolhouse; it is a fast 20 minute drive down the road and you'll be out on the water. Front Royal Outdoors offers self-guided canoe, kayak, raft and tube trips on the legendary South Fork of the Shenandoah River. Specialty fishing kayaks and stand-up paddleboards are also available. Learn more. 

Distance from the Schoolhouse: 13.4 miles

Strawberries, peaches, apples, oh my! Nothing quite says country living and fresh air like getting out for u-pick at a local farm. This orchard offers seasonal picking opportunities; check their calendar and grab some goodies! Head's up, as of the time of writing this, they are CASH ONLY. Learn more. 

Distance from the Schoolhouse: 6.0 miles

Scenic Trail Rides are offered year-round. Their trails pass through the Shenandoah Valley’s history rich meadows, woods, and hills. You can ride across Manassas Run, pass the old cannon emplacements that used to guard Morgan’s Ford, visit the old barns that used to hold US Cavalry ponies, and see the house where George Washington stayed when he was a young man surveying for Lord Fairfax. One or more trail guides lead each ride. Riding experiences range from gentle pastures, to wide sloping trails, crossing small or medium sized streams, and even some trails that are narrow, windy, wooded and steep. They also offer pony rides for ages 2 and up! Learn more. 

Distance from the Schoolhouse: 9.2 miles

Off-the-beaten path new playground; best suited for smaller children. Picnic pavilion. Does not have a website, but can be found in your GPS as "Linden Park in Linden, VA 22642". Also has a book exchange/Little Free Library.

Distance from the Schoolhouse: 6.6 miles

Extensive park and playgrounds (multiple) including an old school (80s/90s kids will remember these!) wooden playground called "Fantasyland" -- as well as a brand new accessible playground called "Free Wheeling Way". You can spend the whole day here playing on the different play structures, eating a picnic and more at Lions Park. Learn more.

Distance from the Schoolhouse: 11.2 miles