Nestled in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, Winchester, VA, offers some of the most picturesque scenic drives in Virginia. Whether you’re a local resident or just passing through, exploring these scenic routes will give you a deeper appreciation for the area’s natural beauty. From lush rolling hills to majestic mountain vistas, these drives showcase the best that Virginia has to offer. In this guide, we’ll highlight the top scenic drives around Winchester, VA, their unique features and provide tips on how to make the most of your journey.
1. Skyline Drive
Skyline Drive is undoubtedly one of the most famous scenic drives in Virginia, and it’s just a short distance from Winchester. This 105-mile route runs the length of Shenandoah National Park and offers stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. With over 75 scenic overlooks, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re traveling during the vibrant fall foliage season or in the serene summer months, Skyline Drive is a must-see.
Unique Features:
- Panoramic Mountain Views: Skyline Drive is famous for its breathtaking panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The drive runs through Shenandoah National Park, offering a serene escape into nature.
- 75+ Scenic Overlooks: Skyline Drive has 75 scenic overlooks that provide stunning panoramic views of the Shenandoah Valley to the west and the Piedmont region to the east. These pull-offs are perfect for stretching your legs, taking photographs, or simply soaking in the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
- Seasonal Beauty: The drive is particularly stunning in the fall, when the foliage transforms into vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. However, it’s equally beautiful in spring with blooming wildflowers or in winter with snow-covered peaks.
- Hiking Opportunities: Along the drive, you can access numerous hiking trails, including parts of the Appalachian Trail, making it a perfect blend of driving and outdoor adventure. Some popular hikes include Old Rag Mountain, Stony Man, and Dark Hollow Falls.
2. Route 11 – The Old Valley Pike
For a more leisurely drive, consider taking Route 11, also known as the Old Valley Pike. This historic route winds through the Shenandoah Valley, passing through charming small towns and offering scenic views of the surrounding countryside. As you drive along this route, you’ll encounter historic landmarks, quaint shops, and plenty of local eateries where you can stop and enjoy a meal. This drive is perfect for those looking to explore the rich history and culture of the area.
Unique Features:
- Historic Significance: Route 11, also known as The Old Valley Pike, follows the path of one of the oldest roads in Virginia, originally a Native American trail that became a key route during the Civil War.
- Quaint Small Towns: As you drive, you’ll pass through charming small towns like Strasburg and New Market, each rich with history, antique shops, and local eateries. These towns offer a glimpse into the slower pace of life in the Shenandoah Valley.
- Historic Landmarks: Along the way, you can explore historic sites such as Civil War battlefields, old stone houses, and centuries-old churches that dot the landscape.
- Scenic Countryside: The route winds through picturesque farmland, with rolling hills and open fields framed by the distant Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains.
3. Blue Ridge Parkway
Another iconic drive near Winchester is the Blue Ridge Parkway, which stretches 469 miles through Virginia and North Carolina. The section near Winchester offers incredible views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and access to numerous hiking trails and picnic spots. The Parkway is known for its winding roads, lush forests, and scenic overlooks, making it a favorite among nature lovers and photographers. Whether you’re planning a short drive or a longer road trip, the Blue Ridge Parkway is an unforgettable experience.
Unique Features:
- Iconic American Drive: Known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” the Blue Ridge Parkway offers 469 miles of scenic beauty, with the section near Winchester providing stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
- Diverse Ecosystems: The Parkway traverses a range of ecosystems, from lush forests to high-elevation meadows, offering a variety of landscapes and plant life throughout the drive.
- Cultural Stops: Along the drive, you’ll find numerous cultural and historical stops, including visitor centers, old mills, and exhibits on Appalachian culture.
- Photography Opportunities: The Parkway’s numerous overlooks provide perfect spots for photography, with each turn offering a new perspective of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
4. Route 50 – The John Mosby Highway
Route 50, also known as the John Mosby Highway, is a scenic drive that takes you through the rolling hills and historic towns of Northern Virginia. As you travel east from Winchester, you’ll pass through Middleburg, known for its horse farms and vineyards. The drive offers beautiful views of the countryside and is especially popular during the fall when the leaves are changing colors. Along the way, you can stop at local wineries, explore historic sites, or simply enjoy the peaceful landscape.
Unique Features:
- Rolling Hills and Vineyards: Route 50, also known as The John Mosby Highway, offers a scenic drive through the rolling hills of Northern Virginia, dotted with horse farms, vineyards, and historic estates.
- Historic Middleburg: This drive takes you through the town of Middleburg, known for its rich equestrian history, boutique shops, and fine dining. Middleburg is often referred to as the “Nation’s Horse and Hunt Capital.”
- Civil War History: The route is named after Confederate cavalry commander John Mosby, and the area is rich with Civil War history, including skirmish sites and historic markers that tell the story of Mosby’s Rangers.
- Stunning Fall Foliage: The route is especially popular in the fall when the leaves change color, creating a stunning backdrop of reds, oranges, and yellows against the rolling hills.
5. Fort Valley Road (Route 678)
For those looking to venture off the beaten path, Fort Valley Road is a hidden gem that offers a truly unique scenic drive. Located within the George Washington National Forest, this winding road takes you through the remote and beautiful Fort Valley, surrounded by the Massanutten Mountain Range. The drive offers stunning views of the forested mountains and the peaceful valley below. It’s a great option for those seeking solitude and a closer connection with nature.
Unique Features:
- Secluded Wilderness: Fort Valley Road is a hidden gem, taking you through the remote and tranquil Fort Valley, nestled within the Massanutten Mountain Range. This drive is perfect for those seeking solitude and a deeper connection with nature.
- George Washington National Forest: The road is surrounded by the George Washington National Forest, offering a sense of wilderness and the opportunity to explore the forest through various hiking trails and picnic spots.
- Scenic Valleys and Mountain Views: As you drive through this narrow valley, you’ll be treated to scenic views of forested mountains on either side, with the valley floor offering a peaceful, pastoral setting.
- Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure: Unlike the more popular routes, Fort Valley Road is less traveled, providing a quiet, off-the-beaten-path experience where you can enjoy the natural beauty without the crowds.
The beautiful roadways around Winchester, Virginia, have something to offer everyone, whether you’re a native or just passing through. These roads offer an ideal means of taking in Virginia’s breathtaking scenery and extensive history, from the well-known Skyline Drive and Blue Ridge Parkway to the quaint Route 11 and undiscovered treasures like Fort Valley Road. To make the most of your trip, remember to pack your Virginia Scenic Drives Map and map out your route in advance.
Embark on one of these scenic drives today and discover the stunning landscapes that make Virginia such a beautiful place to explore!