One of the best aspects of homeschooling my children is having the flexibility to allow them the opportunity to have more has on learning experiences. Living in the Maryland, DC, and Virginia regions have made our memories rich with museums, amazing parks, and the ability to visit public lands that are full of beauty and natural resources. One of the best experiences we have shared recently was our trip to visit Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park.
About Skyline Drive
There is a driving map that takes you through a scenic view of trees, mountains, and rock formations. It was my first time ever riding through Shenandoah National Park. There were lots of tourists, bikers, and families stopping to take in the sights at the 75 overlooks which offer spectacular views of the Valley. The coolest part of the experience is that there were people from all over the world visiting Shenandoah National Park too.
In addition, remember to definitely check the weather forecast for Skyline Drive. The morning that we traveled through Skyline Drive it was expected to be cold, but the forecast called for rain in the evening. It turns out that the rain came earlier, right after we headed out for a hike along one of the trails. The downpour rushed in so quickly we had to run and take cover in the Byrd Visitor Center Exhibit.
Earn A Junior Ranger Badge
Due to the rain, we participated in some of the ranger programs and completed a junior ranger badge so the entire day was not a lost. It was cool to have something to turn in and receive a badge so my girls could place it in their Homeschool Portfolios and have a memento from their visit.
Of course, the scenery is breathtaking. The pictures that I took don’t capture the beauty we saw, but they do show how quickly the weather can change on Skyline Drive in the fall.
Heads Up Costs to Visit Shenandoah National Park are Increasing
As a matter of fact, now is a good time to get an access pass if you love visiting Federal parks and lands.
Free annual America the Beautiful passes are provided for:
- 4th Graders
- U.S. citizens or permanent residents with permanent disabilities
- Volunteers with 250 service hours with federal agencies
View this list to see which location nearest you have National Park Passes at interagency locations in various states.