Saturday
We got an early (relatively, 8:30) start to drive the 105 miles of the Skyline Drive through Shenandoah National Park. We did it south to north, Waynesboro to Front Royal, VA.
We were hoping to see more fall colors but it was still a little early.
This is a Park Service photo of how it has looked in the past.
All along the route there were pull outs, or overlooks that you could see the Shenandoah Valley below or a river, lake or hollow on the east side.
We made the most of every bit of color we did see.
More Park Service photos of what the park looks like when colors are near their peak.
A docent at the Big Meadows Visitor Center told us that last year they were waiting for the colors to peak and before they really changed a storm came through and took all the leaves off. So that made us appreciate what we did see.
The park was built by the CCC and dedicated in 1936.
Big Meadows was once used to to graze cattle then for CCC camps while the park was being constructed and for Military training during World War II. It is now hosts a lodge, visitor center, campground, as well as restaurant and service station (the only gas available in the park).
Although the park wasn't in its full glory of fall colors, it is still a beautiful park and drive. There are picnic areas, hiking trails everywhere, really something for all. If we are anywhere near when it is in full glory we would certainly return.
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