When do leaves change on skyline drive

Straight ahead is the town of Luray, with the ridges of Massanutten Mountain , divided by the New Market Gap, in the distance. The most popular hike to the Stony Man Summit begins in the parking lot just inside the northern entrance to Skyland. The rocky outcropping at the top of Stony Man offers glimpses of the drive to the north, Skyland Resort to the west, and the ridge continuing to the south.

Enjoy a short leg-stretcher to a view from the Crescent Rock Overlook parking area mile The trail begins at the north end of the parking lot and climbs gently to the rock ledge. Again, the ledge is very exposed so keep an eye on children. Take a short but more challenging hike on the rock scramble to Bearfence Mountain summit. The trip is only 1. The payoff of your climb is a nearly degree summit view. Note that dogs are not allowed on Bearfence.

There is an easier alternate trail to an overlook, but the view is more limited. If you have time and energy for a longer hike, you will find exceptional views on the trail from Jewell Hollow Overlook mile The hike is 6. A gorgeous view from the Pinnacle is just a mile from the trailhead, so you could turn back there for a shorter trip.

There are several options for eating in Shenandoah NP , but the panoramic views are found in the dining rooms at Skyland Resort and the patio at Big Meadows. The food is not the primary reason to dine in Shenandoah, though we have enjoyed tasty meals here by sticking to basics. Try to time your stop during off-hours.

That will increase your chances of a table by the window and faster service. If you like treats, try the Blackberry Ice Cream Pie, a popular park special. Another great option for a meal in the park is to bring a picnic lunch to enjoy from one of those fabulous viewpoints.

Remember that, especially in Virginia, "it's elevation, not location" in the early part of the season. The higher you go the more breathtaking the vista. By mid-October, central Virginia begins taking on the rich reds, vivid oranges, and bright yellows of fall in places like Richmond, where always-scenic Rte. Next week, the hot topic will be even colder! Color, and pumpkins, and rangers -- oh my! Do you have what it takes to survive Shenandoah's wilderness? Allow Ranger Kevin to step in and prepare the way.

This week's broadcast will blow you away! Plus, we asked park visitors when they think peak fall color will be. What's your best guess? We woke up before September ended! It's week 3 and there's more color, more tips, and more photos -- plus, a timelapse project that celebrates one year today! It's week two!

And, these two Rangers are ready for fall! This week, we spoke to Ranger Jonathan about the fall equinox. It's that time of year again, and our fall broadcast is back! Every week we'll be taking a look at what's happening in the Park as well as tips for visiting. This week, we spoke with our park botanist to get her best guess about when peak fall color will be.

Shenandoah National Park U. Highway East Luray , VA Explore This Park. Shenandoah National Park Virginia. Info Alerts Maps Calendar Reserve. Alerts In Effect Dismiss.

Vehicles must be private, noncommercial, and not have more than 15 seats. Passes can be purchased in advance at recration. The final entrance-free day is Veterans Day on Thursday, Nov. However, fall foliage still hanging on may have lost its peak color and brightness. Skyline Drive entrance stations include Front Royal [north entrance] near Rt. Unless leaf peepers get caught in heavy traffic on fall foliage weekends, the entire length of Skyline Drive can be traveled in about three hours without stopping.

The only public road through Shenandoah National Park is generally open 24 hours a day, seven days a week unless there is inclement weather.