Skyline Drive

Before you go

• Mary's Rock Tunnel at mile 32.2 has a maximum clearance of 12 ft 8 in (about 3.9 m). RVs and trailers are permitted, but tall vehicles need to check this.
• The speed limit is 35 mph. The full drive takes about three hours on a clear day, with four entrances along the way.
• Options for fuel are limited on the drive. The road is generally open around the clock but can close in bad weather.

Planning

The four vehicle entrances are Front Royal (mile 0), Thornton Gap (mile 31.5), Swift Run Gap (mile 65.5) and Rockfish Gap (mile 104.6). The park service says the drive takes about three hours end to end on a clear day, though stops add to this. The road is generally open 24 hours a day but may close in inclement weather. Subscribe to the park's alerts or check its page for closures. Wildlife is often seen along the road.

Camping

The park runs five seasonal campgrounds, from early spring to late fall: Mathews Arm, Big Meadows, Lewis Mountain, Loft Mountain and others. Big Meadows is by reservation only. Lewis Mountain is first-come, first-served. Mathews Arm and Loft Mountain mix reservable and first-come sites. Sites can typically be reserved up to six months ahead through Recreation.gov, and reservations are highly recommended on weekends and holidays. The sources checked do not give RV length limits or hookup details, so ask the park.

The drive

The limit is 35 mph on most of the road, so the drive is slow by design. The critical point for motorhomes is Mary's Rock Tunnel at mile 32.2, near Thornton Gap, with a maximum clearance of 12 ft 8 in (about 3.9 m). Measure your vehicle including roof units such as air conditioners and antennas. Trailers should be ready for low-gear downhill driving. The park service notes that fuel options are limited, so refuel before you enter.

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