I completed the AT last year section hiking yearly since 2014. The Shenandoah NP was the easiest part but also one of the nicest (I saw approx 100 deer). I am heading back there for the first two wks in Sept starting at Rockfish Gap as I miss hiking the AT. The only problem I encountered, which I hope does not happen this year, is that the small store at Big Meadows was closed (on a Sunday) and there was nowhere to send a food box or buy food. I would recommend you purchase the Guthook app for Northern Virginia AT--it will only cost you approx. $9 and probably answer every question you have on campsites, trails, towns, where water is, etc. Good luck. -Del