Fantastic Views From the Ridge in Shenandoah National Park

In about 1 hour from the southern boundary of Pennsylvania 

you can be in Shenandoah National Park. 

The highlight of the park is Skyline Drive, 

105 mi of curvy tree lined road 

which navigates north - south along the 

ridges of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia. 

I tried to find a view with the most ridges. 

Approximately every 1-2 miles there is an overlook, 

a place to pull over and take in the view. 

The overlooks on the north end of the park 

are better maintained than on the south end

where many trees were overgrown 

and now block what was once a view. 

Sunset View from Big Meadows Lodge

You can be obsessive, 

like we were,

 and stop at each overlook. 

But no need, 

the view is very similar from most of them. 

Our drive, 

with stops 

and 2 hikes 

took a full day. 

An afternoon 

-with an overnight in the park-

and the following morning. 

The waterfalls we encountered were pretty but small. 

You'll need to get a pass 

to drive along Skyline Drive. 

This is easily obtained at any of the 

4 Entrance points. 

We paid $30 for our vehicle 

and the pass was good for one week. 

Tips:

1.  Autumn leaf peeping is the most crowded time.  You will enjoy the colorful leaves but be surrounded with traffic. I went at the very beginning of color and there was hardly anyone there.

2.  Pack a lunch and eat at an overlook.  There is dining in the park but you will save time and money this way. 

3.  Park accommodations are easy from Skyline Drive.  We did not need to advance reserve but depending on when you go, you may have to.  Accommodations are rustic but clean and have dining available.  

We picked up Skyline Drive at the Front Royal entrance.

If you love scenic drives, 

outdoor hikes,

and fresh air 

visit Skyline Drive 

in Shenandoah National Park.

Here is the related photo gallery: 

https://www.rebeccahaegelephotography.com/Travel/Virginia/VA-Shanandoah-National-Park