Skyline Drive is a beloved destination for those who crave stunning vistas, tranquil nature, and a peaceful drive through the Shenandoah National Park. Stretching 105 miles along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this scenic byway is a highlight for both tourists and locals. However, as breathtaking as the views may be, there are certain spots along Skyline Drive that come with hidden dangers. To ensure your visit is both enjoyable and safe, here are three locations you should approach with caution—or steer clear of altogether.
1. Hawksbill Gap Parking Area
Hawksbill Gap is one of the most popular stops along Skyline Drive, as it provides access to Hawksbill Mountain, the highest peak in Shenandoah National Park. The trailhead here offers a gateway to panoramic views, making it a frequent destination for hikers.
Despite its popularity, the Hawksbill Gap Parking Area can be treacherous. The parking lot is small and often overcrowded, leading to haphazard parking situations. Vehicles frequently spill onto the road shoulder, creating a narrow and hazardous situation for both drivers and pedestrians. Additionally, the parking area is located on a curve, reducing visibility for drivers coming from either direction, increasing the risk of collisions.
Local Warnings: Park rangers often advise against visiting this spot during peak hours, particularly on weekends and holidays. Reports from frequent visitors on hiking forums emphasize the importance of arriving early in the morning to secure a parking spot safely. Some have even recounted near-misses due to the congested conditions.
Safety Tips: If you plan to hike Hawksbill Mountain, aim to arrive as early as possible to avoid the crowds. Consider visiting on a weekday when the park is less busy. Alternatively, start your hike from a different trailhead, such as the Upper Hawksbill Trail, which offers more parking options and a safer approach.
2. Marys Rock Tunnel
Marys Rock Tunnel is an engineering marvel on Skyline Drive, carved through the mountain to allow the road to pass through. The tunnel itself is a sight to behold, and many drivers slow down or stop altogether to admire the structure and snap photos.
While the tunnel is impressive, it also presents several dangers. The road narrows as it passes through the tunnel, and the interior can be dark, especially if you’re driving into the sun. This sudden change in lighting can temporarily blind drivers, increasing the risk of accidents. Additionally, the tunnel’s location on a bend in the road means that drivers may encounter it unexpectedly, leading to sudden braking and potential rear-end collisions.
Local Warnings: Several reports from travelers on platforms like TripAdvisor and Reddit warn of near-accidents in the tunnel, particularly from drivers who suddenly stop to take photos or admire the view. Park authorities have also placed signs reminding drivers not to stop in the tunnel, but these warnings are sometimes ignored.
Safety Tips: Keep a steady speed as you approach Marys Rock Tunnel and be prepared for the change in lighting. Resist the temptation to stop inside the tunnel—there are plenty of overlooks before and after the tunnel where you can safely pull over to enjoy the view. If traffic is heavy, maintain a safe following distance to give yourself plenty of time to react if the vehicle in front of you slows down unexpectedly.
3. Little Devils Stairs Overlook
The Little Devils Stairs Overlook is one of the many overlooks along Skyline Drive that offers stunning views of the surrounding wilderness. It’s a lesser-known spot compared to others, which often means fewer crowds and a quieter experience.
The overlook itself, while beautiful, is perched on the edge of a steep drop-off with minimal guardrails. The area can become particularly dangerous in inclement weather, such as heavy rain or fog, which reduces visibility and makes the road slippery. The overlook’s pull-off area is also small and can be challenging to navigate, especially for larger vehicles or those towing trailers.
Local Warnings: Hikers and drivers on outdoor forums have noted the precarious nature of the road near this overlook. Some have reported sliding dangerously close to the edge during rainy conditions, and others have mentioned difficulty in seeing the turnoff in heavy fog.
Safety Tips: If you’re driving Skyline Drive during or after inclement weather, it’s best to avoid Little Devils Stairs Overlook altogether. If you do decide to stop, ensure that road conditions are safe and that your vehicle is parked well away from the edge. Always be cautious when exiting or entering your vehicle, as the road can be narrow and visibility low.
Conclusion
Skyline Drive is a route filled with awe-inspiring beauty, but it also requires a measure of caution to navigate safely. While most of the drive is perfectly safe, the Hawksbill Gap Parking Area, Marys Rock Tunnel, and Little Devils Stairs Overlook present unique challenges that could put your safety at risk if not approached carefully. By being aware of these potential hazards and taking the necessary precautions, you can ensure that your journey along Skyline Drive is not only memorable but also safe.
Before setting out, consider checking for any alerts or conditions from Shenandoah National Park, and always be prepared for sudden changes in weather. Safe travels, and enjoy the breathtaking views that Skyline Drive has to offer.
