Virginia’s Skyline Drive is a national scenic byway that runs along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains and a great destination for a summer road trip.
Traditionally, Skyline Drive is most visited during the fall when it is popular with foliage seekers. But the warmer months offer abounding beauty, with lush greens, cascading waterfalls, and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
During summer, the roadside edges are full of blooming color with azaleas in June, trillium and bluebells in July, and black-eyed Susans and goldenrod in August. The 105-mile road runs the entire length of Shenandoah National Park, hitting an elevation of 3,400 feet.
With 75 overlooks along the route, the drive provides outstanding views to the west overlooking the legendary Shenandoah Valley, and to the east with the rolling hills of Virginia’s piedmont region.
As you travel along Skyline Drive you will notice mileposts on the west side (right side if you are traveling south) of the road. These posts help you find your way through the park and help you locate areas of interest. The mileposts begin with 0.0 at Front Royal and continue to 105 at the southern end of the park.
The speed limit along Skyline Drive is 35 mph. It takes about three hours to travel the entire length of the park on a clear day.
There are multiple opportunities for lodging and dining along the way.
Even if you are just passing through the region, plan to use Skyline Drive for a portion of your route. Traveling from one of the four entrances to the next exit takes about an hour. Along the way you will see the beautiful vistas Shenandoah is known for.