Best Overlooks in Shenandoah National Park For Sunrise and Sunsets
Table of Contents
Skyline Drive, the 105 mile road through the heart of Shenandoah National Park, is a treasure trove of views. Each overlook along the way has a unique view of the Shenandoah Valley and the Blue Ridge Mountains. But with over 65 overlooks to choose from, knowing where to stop for the best sunrises and sunsets can be overwhelming. You’ll often find yourself scrambling to the next spot and missing the whole experience.
This article will help you be able to easily find the best overlooks in Shenandoah National Park. With this guide you can plan your trip and not miss the sunrise or sunset moments. This list is from South to North.
Key Takeaways
Stunning Vistas: Shenandoah National Park offers some of the most breathtaking sunrise and sunset views in the Eastern United States, with overlooks that capture the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Planning Tips: To get the best experience, arrive early, check the weather, and consider the time of year to ensure optimal lighting and color in your photographs.
Experience Nature: Watching the sun rise or set in Shenandoah is not just a visual treat but also an opportunity to connect with nature in a peaceful and serene environment.
Accessible for All: Many of the best overlooks are easily accessible by car, making them perfect for visitors of all ages and hiking abilities to enjoy.
McCormick Gap Overlook (Mile 102.5, 2434 ft., W)
McCormick Gap Overlook offers an impactful punch of beauty full of rural landscapes sprinkled with farms and houses, nestled in the embrace of the surrounding mountains. The best spot for sunset viewing is the northern part, where the golden hour bathes the landscape in a soft, warm glow. Due to the orientation of this overlook, it's possible to get great color during both sunrise and sunset; however, sunset is ideal. It's a beautiful location for capturing the blend of nature and countryside life.
Sunset potential: 6
Turk Gap Overlook (Mile 93.5, 2700 ft., W)
Turk Gap Overlook is a slice of paradise for sunset chasers. This stunning viewpoint boasts a panoramic scene encompassing countryside backdrops and towering mountains. The sun sets on the left side of the scene, but the light gets painted along the meadowlands below in a beautiful landscape when conditions are right. The layout and landscape make Turk Gap Overlook an unmissable stop along Skyline Drive.
Sunset potential: 9
Crimora Lake Overlook (Mile 92.5, 2975 ft., W)
Gazing out from Crimora Lake Overlook, you will be rewarded with an incredible spectacle of farms, fields, and distant mountains. As the sun sets, the scene unfolds into a visual symphony of colors, making this overlook a must-visit spot for capturing stunning sunset photographs. The park keeps the trees at this overlook maintained really well, allowing for a fantastic view.
Sunset potential: 9
Moormans River Overlook (Mile 92, 2975 ft., E)
Awaken your senses with a splendid sunrise at Moormans River Overlook. A serene pond in a valley between two converging mountains provides a unique foreground for the emerging sunrise. It's a breathtaking spectacle that will give your Skyline Drive journey a memorable stop.
Sunrise potential: 9
Rip Rap Overlook (Mile 91.5, 2920 ft., W)
Rip Rap Overlook is a fantastic spot to take in a beautiful sunset. With mountains and forests flanking both sides, the panoramic view of the rising sun painting distant farmlands and houses in warm hues is a sight to behold. The distant mountains create a stunning frame in the right conditions. This spot is perfect for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty in the afternoon.
Sunset potential: 6.5
Loft Mountain Overlook (Mile 74.5, 2450 ft., E)
At Loft Mountain Overlook, you're gifted with views of sprawling farmland nestled against the backdrop of the mountain peaks. The sun ascends directly over this stunning panorama as the day breaks, painting a beautiful morning masterpiece. Conditions and the exact angle of the sun (based on the time of year) will be vital to optimal color. However, this overlook deserves a spot on your sunrise itinerary.
Sunrise potential: 7.5
Hensley Hollow Overlook (Mile 63.5, 2560 ft., W)
Gazing out from Hensley Hollow Overlook, you're greeted with lush forest valleys, up-close mounds on the right, and the soothing calm of meadowland in the distance. As the sun sets, this picturesque scene transforms into a riot of warm hues, making it an ideal spot for lovers of tranquil sunsets. There is some underbrush on the edges of the scene, but the beauty is in the center, with a distant mountain range in the background.
Sunset potential: 8
South River Overlook (Mile 62.5, 2950 ft., E)
South River Overlook provides a narrow yet beautiful scene where mountains frame both sides of a mesmerizing valley. The sunrise, perfectly aligned with the valley, bathes the landscape in soft light, creating a gorgeous and unique photo opportunity. Capturing this scene can be tricky, but the reward is worthwhile. (Tip: Take a telephoto lens)
Sunrise potential: 7.5
The Point Overlook (Mile 55.5, 3235 ft., W)
As the name suggests, The Point Overlook offers a broad view of rolling hills and mountains, with a glimpse of the valley we've been tracing northward. The sun sets slightly to the left, and under the right conditions, this overlook presents a breathtaking sunset display. Some underbrush across the scene can impact photos, but hopefully, the park will clean this site up soon.
Sunset potential: 8.5
Hazeltop View Overlook (Mile 54.5, 3825 ft., W)
Offering sweeping views of rolling mountains and hills, Hazeltop View Overlook is a haven for sunset enthusiasts. The sun's descent paints the landscape in an array of warm colors that light up the mountain landscape, promising a memorable end to your day of exploration.
Sunset potential: 9
Franklin Cliffs Overlook (Mile 49, 3140 ft., W)
Franklin Cliffs Overlook is undoubtedly one of the most captivating overlooks along the northern section of Skyline Drive. The light could break through the mountains as the sun set, setting the meadowland valley ablaze with spectacular color. The time of year and conditions will play a role in getting perfect light, but this is one of the best locations for sunset on the entire trip through the park.
Sunset potential: 8.5
Timber Hollow (Mile 43, 3360 ft., W)
At Mile 39, the Timber Hollow Overlook offers a breathtaking landscape of layered mountain ridges and a picturesque valley in the foreground. As the day wanes, the setting sun bathes the landscape in a warm glow, perfect for capturing truly inspiring shots. This site is well-maintained and one of the best in the park.
Sunset potential: 9
Stony Man Overlook (Mile 38.5, 3100 ft., W)
A visit to Shenandoah National Park isn't complete with stopping by the Stony Man Overlook. This popular sunset spot offers generous parking space and a vast beautiful scene of the valley below. Despite its angular view, which could present some photography challenges, this location is a crowd favorite, particularly as the sun begins to set. Conditions play a significant part in a perfect sunset here, but conditions are vital to almost any incredible sunrise or sunset.
Sunset potential: 7.5
Hazel Mountain Overlook (Mile 33, 2770 ft., E)
Hazel Mountain Overlook, located at Mile 33, is one of Skyline Drive's most popular sunrise destinations. With its gorgeous outcropping that you can climb to fully take in the sunrise, this spot is usually bustling with early risers eager to catch the day's first light. There's good reason for this overlook's popularity; this site can produce some of the best sunrises that are the easiest to get to on Skyline Drive. (Tip: Get there early to claim your spot)
Sunrise potential: 9
Buck Hollow Overlook (Mile 32.8, 2545 ft., E)
Offering a sweeping view of mountains and a delightful valley where the sun rises, the Buck Hollow Overlook at Mile 32.8 might be an even better pick than its more famous counterpart, Hazel Mountain Overlook. While the scene may lack close-up subjects, the landscape is beautiful and similar to Hazel Mountain Overlook but without the crowds.
Sunrise potential: 9
Pass Mountain Overlook (Mile 30, 2460 ft., W)
Pass Mountain Overlook at Mile 30 promises an exquisite spot for sunset photography. The scene may seem narrow, with a valley flanked by mountains and woods, but it presents a beautiful picture with the right timing and a mountain ridge running in the background. Underbrush can be an issue, but the valley below is usually clear.
Sunset potential: 7.5
Rattlesnake Point (Mile 21, 3105 ft., E)
At Milepost 21, the Rattlesnake Point Overlook presents a charming sight of forests with rolling hills, farmland, and valleys in the foreground. There are a lot of forestlands close to the overlook, but the meadowland in the distance is beautiful. This is a fantastic spot for capturing sunrise pictures with a high chance of impressive color. (Tip: A telephoto lens is recommended)
Sunrise potential: 9
Little Devil Stairs Overlook (Mile 20, 3120 ft., E)
The view from the Little Devil Stairs Overlook features rolling mountains, some hills, and farmland — the best part is where the sun rises over these lovely landscapes; however, there is a dead tree directly in the middle of the scene. The site has excellent light potential, though the wide scene may challenge your ability to pick a subject for the foreground.
Sunrise potential: 8
Mount Marshall Overlook (Mile 19, 2850 ft., W)
Mile 19 brings you to Mount Marshall Overlook, offering a pretty scene of grasslands and sporadic hills, with the sun setting directly behind. Add the extensive mountain range on the left for a sunrise photo op with high color potential.
Sunset potential: 9
Hogwallow Flats (Mile 13.6, 2665 ft., E)
At Hogwallow Flats at Mile 13.6, enjoy an impressive scene of meadows, rolling hills, and woodland. As the sun rises, you should be able to capture some beautiful images in glorious colors. The underbrush is usually well-groomed, and only a small strip of forest land separates you from the beautiful meadowland that lights up with the sunrise.
Sunrise potential: 9
Jenkins Gap (Mile 12, 2355 ft., E)
Also located at Mile 12, the Jenkins Gap Overlook provides a narrow yet appealing scene with mountains on both sides and a small pond in the valley between them. The flatlands, rolling hills in the background, and the sun rising directly ahead make this overlook ideal for photographers with a telephoto lens, allowing them to zoom into the heart of the scene.
Sunrise potential: 9
Final Thought
That's a wrap on the top overlooks for sunrise and sunset along Skyline Drive! This list encourages you to drive, enjoy the views, and capture stunning images. Please focus on some of these specific suggestions to help reduce the panic and find the perfect spot to be for sunrise or sunset. Remember, whether or not the conditions are ideal for that 'dream shot,' just being there to witness these natural wonders is a memorable experience. Enjoy your journey, and happy photographing!
FAQ
What are the best overlooks for sunrise in Shenandoah National Park?
Hawksbill Summit, Stony Man, and Bearfence Mountain are popular spots for catching a stunning sunrise.
Which overlooks are ideal for sunset views?
Big Meadows, Blackrock Summit, and Skyline Drive's overlooks, such as Range View, offer breathtaking sunset views.
Are these overlooks accessible for all visitors?
Yes, many overlooks are accessible by car, making them suitable for visitors of all ages and abilities.
When is the best time of year to visit for sunrise or sunset views?
Fall is particularly stunning due to the vibrant foliage, but each season offers unique beauty.
Do I need to arrive early to secure a good spot?
Yes, it’s recommended to arrive early, especially during peak seasons, to get the best view and enjoy a peaceful experience.