US East Skyline Drive & Blue Ridge Parkway

[RJ Howell]

I have driven through the Shenandoah Valley a few times now and say each time I really need to come back just for here! Next month is that time! I'll be coming in from the north and will overnight once in PA before starting the run. We're going to take our sweet time driving through and around the area.

Any other routes or POI's you suggest that should not be missed along this?

 

[John Bishop]

Spruce Knob is a good start. Highest point of elevation in WV.

Happy trails!

 

[mamalone200]

If you are ok with getting off the parkway for a little bit, you can drive some Forest Roads and get to a fantastic overlook near a radio tower. The coordinates are 37.79547, -79.18055, you have to park and follow a short trail behind the fences to get to the lookout. It's absolutely stunning. I'd post a picture but I don't want to spoil it.

 

[mamalone200]

And if you want to dispersed camp, I can highly recommend "The Scales" (36.66970, -81.48699) in the Virginia Highlands. There's a short rough road up to the top, and then there is a great camping area with a toilet building and wild horses nearby.

 

[RJ Howell]

If you are ok with getting off the parkway for a little bit, you can drive some Forest Roads and get to a fantastic overlook near a radio tower. The coordinates are 37.79547, -79.18055, you have to park and follow a short trail behind the fences to get to the lookout. It's absolutely stunning. I'd post a picture but I don't want to spoil it.

As we turn north again, I'm researching a route up through the NF's. So, getting off pavement is great! I'm using the MABDR as a quite and trying to work out connecting forest roads.

 

[RJ Howell]

And if you want to dispersed camp, I can highly recommend "The Scales" (36.66970, -81.48699) in the Virginia Highlands. There's a short rough road up to the top, and then there is a great camping area with a toilet building and wild horses nearby.

I was just starting to read up on this! You're the second one mentioning it.

 

[mamalone200]

I was just starting to read up on this! You're the second one mentioning it.

It is one of my favorite spots. The Appalachian trail and several other smaller trails run through it, so its a great spot to set up camp and go for a nice day hike.

There are also several good dispersed sites along the Piney River (around 37.79525, -79.13536).