Shenandoah National Park Fire Road 4113 Rose River Circuit

Fire Road 4113 follows the old Rose River drainage road built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, threading between Skyline Drive mileposts 49 and 51. The route drops 1,200 feet through hardwood forest to reach the ruins of the Rose River settlement, abandoned when the park was established. Beyond Dark Hollow Falls overlook, the road becomes increasingly technical with washouts and embedded rocks that challenge even experienced drivers navigating the narrow corridor.

Moderate difficulty requiring high-clearance vehicles and careful throttle control on the steep descents. Park Service permits required for backcountry camping, and the road is gated seasonally from December through March. Best driven in spring for wildflowers or fall for colors. No cell service deep in the hollow. This gives you access to some of Shenandoah’s most spectacular waterfalls and a genuine feel for the mountain communities that once called these hollows home before the federal government displaced them.