Drive Down The Scenic Skyline Drive And Fall In Love With The Beauty Of Virginia All Over Again
By Beth|Published November 30, 2021
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Beth
Author
A lifelong Virginia resident, Beth loves exploring different parts of the world and currently resides in Charlottesville. She holds a degree in English Literature and one of her short stories has been featured in the Shenandoah Review. Other interests include hiking, songwriting, and spending time in the mountains.
Isn’t Virginia beautiful? It’s a thought we have quite often, especially when we’re on the road. But when was the last time you took a drive just for the sake of the gorgeous scenery? If it’s been a while and you’re looking for an adventure, we recommend Skyline Drive. It’s the route that will take you through the famed Shenandoah National Park, winding through valleys and mountain vistas. And while it’s a great way to get from one hike to another; today, we’ll focus on the route itself and why it’s considered among the most scenic drives in Virginia.
Running along the crest of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains, Skyline Drive offers 105 miles of unparalleled beauty.
The history of Skyline Drive as we know it began in 1926 when Congress established Shenandoah National Park. The park was dedicated by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1936; and, by 1939, the drive was completed thanks to the efforts of the Civilian Conservation Corps.
The route will take you from the northern terminus of Front Royal to the southern terminus of Rockfish Gap, with two other main entrance points in between: Thornton Gap and Swift Run Gap.
Many people don't realize that the same road continues south at Rockfish Gap, where it then becomes the Blue Ridge Parkway.
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If you're traveling on a clear day, you can expect the drive to take at least three hours, although you'll likely want to designate more time to enjoy the sweeping mountain views that await. Mileposts along the way will help direct your attention to points of interest.
In fact, there are nearly 70 designated overlooks along the way. Be sure to pull off and take the time to admire the views — that's what this lovely drive is all about!
Some animals that have frequently been seen in the area include black bear, deer, and wild turkey.
Driving along this route, it's impossible to ignore the sheer beauty of the park. But what's perhaps most impressive is the geological history. As you drive, imagine the Blue Ridge Mountains as they might have been one billion years ago. Experts believed their height exceeded that of the Himalayan range!
Of course, there's something so lovely about the gentleness of the Blue Ridge Mountains as we know them today. And what better a way to appreciate them than with a meandering adventure along this famous route.
It’s no mystery why Skyline Drive is considered to be among the most scenic drives in Virginia. How many times have you driven Skyline Drive? What’s your favorite segment of this scenic route? Be sure to share your thoughts with us in the comments below — we’d love to hear from you! For more information about planning your visit, be sure to check out the official Skyline Drive visitor’s guide.
