The United States is blessed with some truly beautiful scenery. From the east coast to the west and everywhere in between, America is home to some of the world's most astonishing landscapes, with many of the country's most beautiful locations being given protected National Park or State Park status. Shenandoah National Park is one example.

  • What is Shenandoah National Park?
    • Covering part of the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, Shenandoah National Park is a long and narrow park stretching across almost 200,000 acres or over 300 square miles.
    • Established in 1935, the park attracts over a million visitors each year.
  • What activities can visitors enjoy in Shenandoah National Park?
    • Some of the most popular activities include camping and hiking, with numerous wonderful trails and five major campgrounds.
    • Visitors can stay in lodges and cabins throughout the park.
    • Backcountry activities of all kinds can be enjoyed here.
    • One of the biggest attractions is the Skyline Drive (Video).
  • What is the Skyline Drive?
    • The Skyline Drive is the most iconic part of Shenandoah National Park.
    • This 105-mile scenic road runs the entire length of the park, ending at US Route 340 in the north and US 250 in the south.
    • A National Historic Landmark and a National Scenic Byway, the Skyline Drive is one of the most beautiful roads in America.
  • What can visitors experience on the Skyline Drive?
    • Drivers and passengers feel like they are "riding the sky" as they travel along this historic mountain road.
    • The road winds through the Blue Ridge Mountains and features 75 scenic overlooks with breathtaking views of the Shenandoah Valley and surrounding mountains.
    • Wildlife such as deer, bears, turkeys, and other animals can often be spotted from the road.
  • How can visitors access the Skyline Drive?
    • The Skyline Drive is the only road in Shenandoah National Park, which is the only national park in Virginia.
    • It runs for 105 miles from Front Royal in the north to Waynesboro in the south.
    • There are four main access points to the Skyline Drive:
      • Front Royal at US 340
      • Thornton Gap at US 211
      • Swift Run Gap at US 33
      • Rockfish Gap at I-64 and US 250
  • How long does it take to drive the Skyline Drive?
    • The maximum speed limit is 35 miles per hour.
    • If driving straight through without stopping, the full drive takes about three hours.
    • Many visitors choose to extend their trip by stopping at the various overlooks along the way.
  • What are the overlooks along the Skyline Drive?
    • There are 75 overlooks along the Skyline Drive, providing safe parking spots and stunning views of the Shenandoah Valley to the west and the Piedmont to the east.
    • Visitors can enjoy colorful flowers throughout the year and may even spot deer, turkeys, and bears.
    • Drivers must be cautious, as wildlife frequently crosses the road.
  • What are the admission fees for the Skyline Drive?
    • Visitors typically need to pay park fees to enter Shenandoah National Park and drive the Skyline Drive.
    • Fees vary, and discounts are available.
    • Several entrance fee-free days occur throughout the year, often on special holidays like:
      • Martin Luther King Jr.'s Birthday
      • Park Neighbor Day
      • National Park Service Birthday
      • Veterans Day
  • When is the Skyline Drive open?
    • Shenandoah National Park is open year-round.
    • Most visitor facilities operate from March to November.
    • The Skyline Drive may temporarily close due to winter weather or other hazardous conditions.
    • Visitors should check the park's official website, social media, or call 540-999-3500 for updates before planning their trip.

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