Leaf Peeping along Virginia's Blue Ridge
© 1998 By Brian Wasson
Fall is here, and with it comes the annual rite of fall foliage watching. Many people will flock to Vermont and New Hampshire to check out nature's show. But, for those of us with less time (and less cash), beautiful displays of color are available right here in Virginia.
Less than four hours west of Hampton Roads via I-64 are the twin scenic roadways of Skyline Drive (located in Shenandoah National Park) and the Blue Ridge Parkway. The Blue Ridge mountains provide a brilliant display of color every year, making Shenandoah National Park one of the nation's busiest national parks in the fall.
Interstate 64 is the dividing line between the Skyline Drive and the Blue Ridge Parkway. The Blue Ridge Parkway runs 469 miles south to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, while Skyline Drive winds its way 105 miles north to Front Royal.
Turning south on the Blue Ridge Parkway you'll soon come to Humpback Rocks visitor center and Humpback Mountain Farm, a re-created mountain homestead from the turn of the century. Stop at the visitor center first to pick up information on the parkway and to ask the rangers questions about the area. Then, walk the short path to the farm area. Costumed interpreters might be rocking on the porch or weaving on the loom inside the 100-year-old cabin. They'll be happy to talk to you about the mountains and the self-sufficient life of the mountain people. Wander around the grounds, noting the hand-hewn logs from which the outbuildings are constructed. The farm site is free and is interesting for kids and adults alike.
If you are up for some exercise, hike up to Humpback Rocks. The parking area for the trail is just south of the visitor center. It's a fairly strenuous two-mile hike up to a beautiful panoramic overlook. Much shorter "leg stretcher" walks are also available along the drive. Ask for the "Virginia Trails" handout at the visitor center.
North of I-64 is Shenandoah National Park and the Skyline Drive. The drive was completed in 1939 by the Civilian Conservation Corps and still has a rugged, remote feel. There are numerous trails leading off the drive, making for a myriad of hiking possibilities. If you aren't feeling that motivated, you can just stay in your car and enjoy the impressive vistas from the many overlooks along the drive. On a clear day you can see the mountains of West Virginia and the Piedmont area stretching to the east.
Twenty-five miles north of the Rockfish Gap (I-64) Skyling Drive entrance station is Loft Mountain, with visitor facilities including a ranger station, cafeteria, campground and picnic area. A nice hike in the area is to 2,520 foot Blackrock Summit, a fairly easy 1.5 miles up a broad path to an interesting exposed rock summit.
Fall is the perfect time to head to the mountains of Virginia. It's no secret, though, so be sure to make reservations if you plan to stay overnight in the area (see suggestions below). And don't forget to bring a sweater for those crisp fall nights!
Particulars:
To reach the Blue Ridge Parkway and Shenandoah National Park, take Interstate 64 west to the Waynesboro exit (exit 99). It will take you three to four hours from Hampton Roads. Follow the brown National Park Service signs to the two drives. Turn south for the Blue Ridge Parkway (free), or north for Shenandoah National Park and the Skyline Drive ($10 entrance fee, good for seven days, or $20 for a yearly pass).
Just off the exit is The Inn at Afton, perched high on a mountain with commanding views of the valley. Rates in foliage season range from $64-$100 per room per night. Phone 800-860-8559. Other lodging and restaurants are available in nearby Waynesboro.
If you want to "get back to nature," there are several campgrounds along both roads. Just off the Blue Ridge Parkway is Sherando Lake National Forest campground, complete with a lake and showers. They have 65 sites for $15-$20 each. There are also several campgrounds operated by the National Park Service along the drive. The closest is 60 miles south of I-64 at Otter Creek ($12 per site).
In Shenandoah National Park there is a campground 25 miles north at Loft Mountain ($14 per site). Showers are available, and there is a cafeteria nearby (reasonable prices, breakfast and sandwiches -- don't miss the blackberry milkshake!).
All campgrounds mentioned are open through October only, and are first-come, first-served.
For information on Shenandoah National Park, call 540-999-3500. For information on the Blue Ridge Parkway, call 828-298-0398.
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