Faith Lo
There’s something almost magical about Shenandoah National Park. Maybe it’s the way the sun sets gently behind the Blue Ridge Mountains. For generations, this park has been a sanctuary for hikers, campers, nature lovers, and dreamers alike. At Deneen Pottery, we’re proud to honor the spirit of this special place with our handmade Shenandoah National Park mugs, each one crafted with care and purpose, and with a portion of proceeds going directly back to the park.
A Jewel of the Blue Ridge Mountains
Located just 75 miles from the bustling streets of Washington, D.C., Shenandoah National Park feels like a world away. It stretches across more than 200,000 acres of Virginia wilderness, offering a haven of quiet forests, cascading waterfalls, and more than 500 miles of trails. Among those trails is a 101-mile stretch of the Appalachian Trail, where seasoned hikers and curious beginners alike can find inspiration with every step (nps.gov).
Skyline Drive, the scenic route that runs the length of the park, offers breathtaking views in every season. From the vibrant greens of spring to the fiery reds and oranges of fall foliage, Shenandoah’s beauty is always in bloom. Wildlife is plentiful too. Visitors often spot white-tailed deer, black bears, wild turkeys, and dozens of bird species.
Established in 1935, Shenandoah has long served as a place of restoration and inspiration. It was created during the Great Depression as a way to conserve land and create jobs, particularly through the Civilian Conservation Corps. Today, Shenandoah welcomes more than a million visitors annually, each one leaving with a slightly fuller heart and deeper appreciation for the natural world.
The Shenandoah National Park Association: A Legacy of Support
Behind the beauty of Shenandoah National Park is a powerful force working to preserve its stories, landscapes, and lessons for future generations: the Shenandoah National Park Association (SNPA). Founded in 1950, SNPA is a nonprofit cooperating association that supports the educational and interpretive programs of the National Park Service in Shenandoah.
Through the sale of books, maps, trail guides, and other interpretive products, SNPA enhances the visitor experience and deepens the public’s understanding of the park. Their physical stores, located within visitor centers, as well as their online store at snpbooks.org, offer carefully curated materials that allow guests to take a piece of the park home with them.
100% of profits from their sales go directly back into supporting Shenandoah National Park. Over the past 70 years, SNPA has contributed more than $5.16 million to the park. These funds support educational exhibits, ranger programs, scientific research, and cultural preservation. Visitors can also support SNPA by becoming members, which comes with perks like discounts and access to exclusive content.
In a time when public lands face increasing pressure and limited federal funding, organizations like SNPA are more important than ever. Every purchase, donation, and membership helps ensure that Shenandoah remains wild, well-maintained, and welcoming for all.
Shenandoah Mug
Each Shenandoah mug is handcrafted in our Minnesota studio using 72 years of pottery techniques. From the initial shaping on the wheel to the final glaze firing, our skilled artisans bring care and precision to every step.
But beyond its craftsmanship, the Shenandoah mug has a deeper purpose. When you purchase a Shenandoah National Park mug from our website or from the SNPA store, 10% of the sale goes directly back to the park. That means your morning coffee or evening tea doesn’t just taste better, it actively supports trail maintenance, wildlife conservation, and visitor education.
This initiative is part of our larger commitment to supporting America’s national parks. Through our National Park Collection, we’ve been able to give back to dozens of parks across the country, all while helping people connect more deeply with the places they love.
Bring a Piece of the Park Home
Whether you’ve hiked Old Rag Mountain, picnicked at Big Meadows, or simply dreamed of wandering through Shenandoah’s misty trails, our handmade mug is a way to keep those memories close. It’s more than just stoneware; it’s a tribute to wild beauty, quiet moments, and shared responsibility.
So the next time you reach for your favorite mug, let it remind you of Shenandoah’s timeless forests and far-reaching views. And know that with every sip, you’re helping protect something truly irreplaceable.
Faith Lo
