A relaxing and immersive drive through some of the most beautiful nature in the region, Skyline Drive is a scenic experience spanning the length of Shenandoah National Park. Reaching 105 miles, the roadway provides access to overlooks, trails, and everything else the park offers its visitors. Skyline Drive begins with an entrance in Front Royal, VA, and draws to a conclusion in Waynesboro. Other entrances are located in Luray, Elkton, and Rockfish Gap. Designed for drivers to enjoy the splendor of the forestry and vistas they travel by, the roadway has a 35-mile-per-hour maximum speed limit, bringing the end-to-end journey to about three hours total. However, the time you spend on the road is entirely up to you as there are plenty of opportunities to pull over for exploration through hiking trails, camping, or just taking a break to enjoy a meal at a picturesque picnic area.

Visiting

Skyline Drive is typically open 24/7, barring severe weather conditions. The National Parks Service has provided a site with directions to each entry point to the drive. This site has up-to-date information on operations regarding the availability of the roadway and its services. Additionally, the information phone line at 540-999-3500 is a reliable source to check the operational status of Skyline Drive. Some visitor’s centers and picnic grounds are open year-round, while most campgrounds, lodges, and food services are open seasonally. The roadway is usually busiest in the fall, and for good reason, as the Blue Ridge Mountains burst with color and the leaves change with the cooler temperatures. Another high volume of time includes select national holidays, which are treated as free entry days. On regular days, all visitors must pay an entrance fee for access to Shenandoah National Park, including those interested in Skyline Drive. Entering the park on foot costs $15 a person. At the same time, motorcyclists can expect to pay $25, and drivers of private vehicles pay a fee of $30. Higher amounts are charged depending on the size and capacity of your vehicle, though educational/academic visitors gain free entry. An annual fee of $55 grants everyday access to the park. If you arrive at an entrance with no attendant, you may enter the park and pay the appropriate fee upon exiting.