Swift Run Gap Entrance Shenandoah National Park
Gateway to Shenandoah's stunning Skyline Drive, offering breathtaking mountain vistas and easy access to scenic overlooks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Swift Run Gap Entrance Shenandoah National Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Gateway to Shenandoah's stunning Skyline Drive, offering breathtaking mountain vistas and easy access to scenic overlooks.
"Incredible views not from the Swift Run Gap entrance of the Shenandoah Park!"
🚗 Avoid Peak Hours
Arrive before 10 AM or after 3 PM to bypass the busiest entrance times.
📍 Swift Run Gap Address
Use 22591 Spotswood Trail, Elkton, VA 22827 for GPS navigation.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Scenic Skyline Drive Access
Skyline Drive
Direct access to the iconic Skyline Drive for breathtaking mountain vistas and wildlife spotting.
The Point Overlook
Skyline Drive
Enjoy incredible panoramic views of the Shenandoah Valley from this popular overlook.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds at Swift Run Gap
Know Your Entrance Options
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Avoid Peak Hours
Arrive before 10 AM or after 3 PM to bypass the busiest entrance times.
📍 Swift Run Gap Address
Use 22591 Spotswood Trail, Elkton, VA 22827 for GPS navigation.
🏞️ Explore Nearby Towns
Swift Run Gap is close to towns with amenities, offering convenience after your park visit.
Where is the closest parking to Swift Run Gap (SNP)?
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Avoid Peak Hours
Arrive before 10 AM or after 3 PM to bypass the busiest entrance times.
📍 Swift Run Gap Address
Use 22591 Spotswood Trail, Elkton, VA 22827 for GPS navigation.
🏞️ Explore Nearby Towns
Swift Run Gap is close to towns with amenities, offering convenience after your park visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the Swift Run Gap entrance for its convenient access to Skyline Drive and stunning overlooks like The Point. Its proximity to towns is a plus for amenities. Some find the entrance can get busy during peak times, highlighting the importance of strategic timing.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Swift Run Gap Entrance to Shenandoah National Park is located at 22591 Spotswood Trail, Elkton, Virginia 22827.
To avoid traffic, try to enter Shenandoah National Park before 10 a.m. or after 3 p.m. on weekdays.
Yes, Shenandoah National Park has four entrances: Front Royal, Thornton Gap, Swift Run Gap, and Rockfish Gap.
Swift Run Gap is considered one of the more convenient entrances in terms of access to nearby towns and amenities.
From I-81, take Exit 257 for US-33 East towards Elkton. Continue on US-33 East for approximately 10 miles, and the entrance will be on your right.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entrance fees are per vehicle and are valid for 7 days. Check the official Shenandoah National Park website for current pricing.
While advance booking isn't typically required for park entry, it's always a good idea to check the park's official website for any special advisories or timed entry requirements, especially during peak season.
Entrance stations generally operate during daylight hours, but it's best to confirm specific hours on the Shenandoah National Park website before your visit.
Yes, the America the Beautiful Pass is accepted at the Swift Run Gap entrance for park admission.
If you arrive after the entrance station has closed, you may still be able to enter the park, but you won't be able to purchase a pass until the station reopens.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Point Overlook is a highly recommended spot near the Swift Run Gap entrance, offering stunning valley views.
Yes, numerous hiking trails are accessible from Skyline Drive, which you can reach shortly after entering through Swift Run Gap.
Swift Run Gap is a convenient starting point for exploring the southern section of Shenandoah National Park and accessing Skyline Drive.
You might spot deer, black bears, and various bird species along Skyline Drive and its surrounding areas.
Cell service can be spotty within Shenandoah National Park, including near the Swift Run Gap entrance. It's advisable to download offline maps.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing snacks and drinks, as services within the park are limited. The proximity of Swift Run Gap to towns like Elkton also means you can easily grab supplies or a meal before or after your park visit, making it a convenient choice for families.
🚗 Road Trippers & Scenic Drivers
To make the most of your road trip, aim for a weekday visit to avoid the heaviest traffic. Download offline maps as cell service can be unreliable. The Swift Run Gap entrance allows you to easily head north or south on Skyline Drive, offering flexibility for your journey.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Shenandoah's Entrances
+1Timing is crucial when planning your entry. Social media creators and park rangers alike advise avoiding the peak hours of 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. to minimize wait times. Arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon can lead to a much smoother and more enjoyable entry experience. Some travelers suggest that the Rockfish Gap entrance might experience slightly less traffic, offering another strategic option if crowds are a major concern.
Each entrance provides access to different sections of Skyline Drive, which itself is a 105-mile scenic road traversing the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Familiarizing yourself with the location of the Swift Run Gap entrance (22591 Spotswood Trail, Elkton, VA 22827) will help you plan your route effectively and maximize your time exploring the park's numerous overlooks and hiking trails.
Maximizing Your Visit from Swift Run Gap
Beyond the scenic drives, the area around Swift Run Gap is a gateway to numerous hiking opportunities. Trails range from easy, family-friendly strolls to more challenging backcountry treks. Many visitors recommend downloading offline maps or using park brochures to identify trails that suit their fitness level and interests.
For those seeking amenities, Swift Run Gap is noted for its proximity to nearby towns, offering convenient options for dining, lodging, and supplies before or after your park adventure. This makes it a practical choice for visitors who appreciate having easy access to services outside the park's boundaries.
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