Skyline Drive

Skyline Drive runs along the ridge crest the entire length of the park and can be entered at four points: near Front Royal on US 340; at Thornton Gap between Luray and Sperryville on US 211; at Swift Run Gap between Stanardsville and Elkton on US 33; and at Rockfish Gap between Charlottesville and Waynesboro on US 250/I-64. The speed limit is 35 mph.

The 105-mile drive is one of the most spectacular scenic highways in the East. Parking overlooks offer views of the Piedmont to the east and the Shenandoah Valley to the west. Across the Shenandoah Valley rise Massanutten Mountain and, farther away, the Allegheny Mountains.

Not far from Thornton Gap is a 610-foot tunnel through the solid granodiorite of Marys Rock. The highest point on the road is at the north entrance to Skyland, where the elevation is 3,680 feet. Blue Ridge Parkway extends 469 miles from the southern end of Skyline Drive to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina and Tennessee.

An audio tour running from north to south describes the highlights, features and history of the Skyline Drive; it is available at concessioners and park visitor centers.

Pet friendly (call for restrictions/fees.). Recreational activities are permitted. Camping is permitted. Picnicking is permitted. Food is available. Time: Allow 3 hours minimum.