Fall Foliage on the Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park
Alec Sills-TrauschThe Skyline Drive, cutting through Shenandoah National Park, provides some of the best mountain views on the east coast. Tallying 105 miles long, north to south, through the (insert what number national park SNP was), this curvy road will bring plenty of awe to your visit. Enjoying the Skyline Drive fall foliage was phenomenal.
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Views of the Skyline Drive Fall Foliage in Shenandoah National Park
In all, Skyline Drive in Virginia has 75 turnouts. While you can’t be expected to visit all of them, take your time as you drive through and enjoy the striking views. Most of the pull-offs are on the west side of the road, making them perfect for sunsets. Sunrise might be a bit harder, but enough are looking east to make it worthwhile!
This was one of the first times I’d ever experienced fall foliage on the east coast, and it was terrific. Growing up in Arizona, we get just a tenth of the colors that Shenandoah Valley receives.
Top Hikes We did in Shenandoah National Park during Fall
Below are some of our favorite hikes we did around Shenandoah National Park with spectacular fall foliage.
- Dark Hollow Falls Trail
- Hawksbill Summit Trail
- Whiteoak Canyon and Cedar Run Trail
- Doyles River Falls Trail
- Jones Run Falls Trail
Things to know about the fall in Shenandoah National Park
What is there to do in Shenandoah National Park in October?
It’s time for leaf peeping! October is a wonderful month to visit Shenandoah National Park and experience the Skyline Drive fall foliage. Nearly every tree in the area changes colors, and the views are stunning. Make sure to scroll to the bottom to see all my photographs.
It is also warm enough to hike, so tackle the waterfall hikes in the area.
What is the best time to see the Skyline Drive fall foliage in Shenandoah National Park?
October is the best time for fall colors in Shenandoah National Park. First, though, keep an eye on the forecast because it changes yearly. Then, once the leaves begin to change, plan out your Skyline Drive fall foliage road trip to see the changing landscapes.
How are the fall colors at Shenandoah?
The Skyline Drive fall foliage is spectacular during its peak. The entire roadway is perfect, and your hikes will be full of gold and red leaves. It’s truly a sight to see.
How many days do you need for Skyline Drive Shenandoah National Park during the fall?
For the drive, maybe two days. We spent a week in the area, which allowed us to do various hikes in Shenandoah National Park and the surrounding areas. Three days should be good if you are only looking for Skyline Drive fall foliage.
Where should I stay to see the Skyline Drive fall foliage?
The best places to stay are to the west of Shenandoah National Park and Skyline Drive. About 25 minutes west of the park is Harrisonburg, VA (home of James Madison University). You can also stay in the smaller resort area of Massanutten.
Photos from the Skyline Drive Fall Foliage in Virginia
I have to thank my parents for being flexible as I pulled onto the tiny shoulders to shoot road pictures or all the times we stopped at the lookouts to see the Skyline Drive fall foliage.
More about Shenandoah National Park and Skyline Drive fall colors
Shenandoah National Park is in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, USA. It was established in 1935 and covers an area of nearly 200,000 acres. The land for the park was acquired through a combination of private land purchases and eminent domain condemnations.
As a result, the park is home to a diverse array of plant and animal life and many scenic views and hiking trails. The park is also home to Skyline Drive, a 105-mile road that runs the length of the park and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
If you’re considering booking a trip to Skyline Drive Shenandoah National Park for fall colors, you definitely should! You won’t be disappointed. Thanks for coming along on the virtual ride throughout Shenandoah National Park and the Skyline Drive fall foliage!
Wrapping Up – Skyline Drive Shenandoah National Park
The Skyline Drive Fall foliage blew my mind, and I know you’ll come away with as much joy and admiration as I did. It’s a truly beautiful area, and remember to Leave No Trace and allow others to view it as you did.
Until next time adventurers, take care and be safe.
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Top places to see fall colors.
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