The Shenandoah Valley Skyline Drive in Virginia flourishes with natural beauty and colorful foliage. You can travel this scenic highway any time of year to experience stunning views of the Virginia foothills and the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains. Whatever season you decide to visit, a trip to the remarkable Skyline Drive must be on your To Do List!
Would you like to find out about more outdoor adventures and spectacular views that showcase the natural grandeur of Northern Virginia? Download our free Vacation Guide. It’s full of attractions and activities you can experience after your excursion along the Shenandoah Valley Skyline Drive.
Experience the Shenandoah Valley Skyline Drive
1. The Scenic Stretch
How long is the Shenandoah Valley Skyline Drive? It twists and winds for 105 miles through the Shenandoah National Park, one of the beautiful national parks in Virginia. The incredible byway encapsulates you from its beginning in Front Royal to its ending at the Blue Ridge Parkway. You do not have to go the whole length of Shenandoah Valley Skyline Drive to appreciate the magnificent landscape. As you enjoy the surrounding nature, be on the lookout for any wildlife that may make an appearance. Drive with caution.
2. The Magnificent Tunnel
Perhaps one of the most famous features on the Shenandoah Valley Skyline Drive is Mary’s Rock Tunnel. It stands nearly 13 feet high and 610 feet long and is considered an engineering marvel. Mary’s Rock Tunnel is slightly south of the Thornton Gap entrance on Route 211. It runs along the base of Mary’s Rock Mountain, which stands 3,514 feet above sea level. All motor vehicles are welcome to pass through, but RVs, camping trailers, and horse trailers must take extra precautions ensure safe passage. Mary’s Rock Tunnel adds the perfect little adventure down the Shenandoah Valley Skyline Drive without stepping out of your car!
3. The Beautiful Overlooks
Do you need to stretch your legs during the picturesque drive through the Blue Ridge Mountains? There are 75 breathtaking overlook points along the Shenandoah Valley Skyline Drive. Pull off of the main drag and get out of your car to experience the views of the Shenandoah National Park. The park showcases the rolling mountain foothills and piedmonts and provides a home for various wildlife like deer, black bears, wild turkeys, and many other woodland creatures. Bring your camera, your phone, or your video recorder to document the phenomenal views from the Shenandoah Valley Skyline Drive.
4. The Amazing Flora
Natural elements compose the wondrous splendor along the beautiful Shenandoah Valley Skyline Drive. In fact, the park contains over 330 different species of plants, trees, and shrubs.
Magnificent trees such as the mighty oak, tall hickory, and towering sassafras create the surreal forest outlining Shenandoah Valley Skyline Drive. Wild-growing plants like serviceberry, white blossoms, and mountain laurels dominate the park and are visible from one of the various lookouts along the Shenandoah Valley Skyline Drive.
Continue the Magic at the Inn at Vaucluse Spring
The Shenandoah Valley Skyline Drive is just one of the many areas in Northern Virginia that boast a beautiful landscape and natural elements. Here at The Inn at Vaucluse Spring, you can explore our 44 scenic acres in the Shenandoah Valley countryside and check out the incredible limestone spring. Move your adventures into one of our 15 romantic accommodations that contain elegant furnishings, a colonial aesthetic, and luxurious features. Check out our wonderful specials for a last-minute getaway or dining experience with us.
Your Virginia paradise awaits. Book a room today!