6 Things to See Along and Around Skyline Drive
Skyline Drive is one of the iconic byways of America. The road spans 105 miles through Shenandoah National Park in Virginia.
The northern terminus is in Front Royal, Virginia. The southern terminus at Rockfish Gap connects to the Blue Ridge Parkway, which takes you south another 469 miles south if you aren't ready to stop riding.
If you are planning a ride along Skyline Drive, here are a few things you might want to stop and see.
Monticello
Built in 1772, Monticello was the primary plantation and home of Founding Father Thomas Jefferson. An architect by trade, he began designing the Neoclassical and Palladian building himself after inheriting the land from his father when he was only 14.
Guided tours of the house are offered daily throughout the year, and garden tours between April and October. It’s situated around 25 miles to the east of Waynesboro in Charlottesville near I-64 exit 121.
Find it at 1050 Monticello Loop, Charlottesville, VA.
James Monroe’s Highland
Also situated near Charlottesville and adjacent to Monticello, Highland was the estate of James Monroe, another Founding Father and the fifth President of the U.S. Highland is open daily from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. Private guided tours can also be arranged.
This visit is a window into American history and the lives of those who passed through the property. Craftsmen, diplomats, slaves, presidents, and artists are seen through the prism of one of the country’s early leaders.
Find it at 2050 James Monroe Pkwy, Charlottesville, VA.
Jordan Hollow Stables
If you want to ride a different type of steed, take a 1.5-hour guided horseback trail ride in the Shenandoah Valley from Jordan Hollows Stables. Catering for all riders from 7 years upward, from beginners to experts, Jordan Hollow Stables is situated about seven miles south of Luray near Stanley. You can join a group ride or book a private one, although you need a minimum of three riders.
Find it at 657 Pine Grove Rd, Stanley, VA, (540) 778-2623.
Doyles River Falls
If you are a waterfall enthusiast, you shouldn’t miss visiting Doyles River Falls. This trail sees far fewer visitors and offers a more secluded experience than Dark Hollow.
It’s a 3.4-mile, 2.5-hour out-and-back hike that leads to two beautiful waterfalls. The trailhead is around 19 miles along Skyline Drive from the Rockfish Gap entrance.
Cavern Visits
Virginia is an excellent destination for cave and cavern enthusiasts. There are several cave systems to explore, the most famous of which are the Luray Caverns.
As an alternative or an addition to the Luray Caverns, the three of the most popular caves are Skyline Caverns in Front Royal, Endless Caverns in New Market, and Dixie Caverns in Salem.
Bear Mountain Ziplines
Bear Mountain Ziplines offers additional thrills in case riding didn’t get your adrenaline pumping hard enough. This adventure park features 50 acres of scenic forest with ziplines and climbing for all ages and levels of experience. There are also mountain biking trails in the works.
Find it at 2354 US 211, Luray, VA, (540) 743-1733.