3 Things to See on the Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park, VA

There are some beautiful natural forest landscapes surrounding The Inn at Vaucluse Spring in Stephens City, VA. Our property itself includes a picturesque mill pond along with 44 acres of countryside, gardens, and forests in gorgeous Shenandoah Valley. In autumn, the leaves turn magnificent colors, lining the horizon in hues of dark red, burnt orange, and glistening gold. During summer, the lush, green spread is an inviting jungle, offering an avenue of adventure. Whatever season you choose to visit, you won’t be disappointed by the stunning scenery. The Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park, VA, is one of the most beautiful scenic drives you can take near The Inn at Vaucluse Spring. Enjoy miles and miles of breathtaking views along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains!

Find out more about all of the places to explore near the Inn at Vaucluse Spring when you download our free Vacation Guide. It’s full of the best recommendations for things to see and do like enjoying an adventure along the Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park, VA.

What You Will See Along Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park, VA

105 Miles of Beautiful Views

One question many travelers ask is “How long is Skyline Drive?” You don’t have to drive the entire Skyline Drive length during your cruising escapade. Just a short stretch will give you plenty of beautiful views to capture on camera or just with your eyes and soul. White-tailed deer are frequent sights along the drive, where the speed limit is just 35 miles per hour. This slow speed will allow you to truly take in the surrounding scenery and also look out for some of the wildlife that call Shenandoah National Park their home. You will also see cascading waterfalls, rock summits, stunning starscapes, and marvelous birds of prey. If you do end up driving the entire length of Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park, VA, it will be 105 miles north and south along the Blue Ridge Mountains.

75 Overlooks

The only public road in the park, Skyline Drive offers 75 overlooks with views of Shenandoah Valley to the west or the magnificent Piedmont to the east. The roadsides are purposely unmowed, so wildflowers can be on display all year long. Take in the vibrant colors of azaleas, cardinal flower, black-eyed Susans, goldenrod, and trillium peeking through the tall grass. You can park your car on an overlook, get out, and truly smell the flowers. Let your eyes wander the expansive mountain valley scenery in front of you and appreciate its beauty. You might also see some critters, like black bear, wild turkey, and a variety of other woodland creatures. Be sure to bring your camera for some photographs to put in the scrapbook!

12’8” Mary’s Rock Tunnel

Be sure that whatever vehicle you are traveling in meets the height limit of Mary’s Rock Tunnel. This 12’8’’ tunnel is just south of the Thornton Gap entrance from Route 211. Though RVs, camping trailers, and horse trailers are welcome, make sure they will clear this tunnel before trying to drive through! A Shenandoah National Park Skyline Drive Map will provide all you need to know about the route ahead. Be sure to stay safe while you enjoy Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park, VA!

Stay at The Inn at Vaucluse Spring  

The Inn at Vaucluse Spring is a great home base for your journey along Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park, VA. Enjoy the romantic ambiance of our peaceful bed and breakfast retreat. And after a wonderful night’s sleep, wake up in the morning to a complementary breakfast. Book your stay in Shenandoah Valley today!