Hogback Overlook
A breathtaking vista point along Skyline Drive, offering sweeping views of the Shenandoah Valley and surrounding mountain ridges.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Hogback Overlook
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking vista point along Skyline Drive, offering sweeping views of the Shenandoah Valley and surrounding mountain ridges.
"The Hogback overlook is the best overlook here in my opinion. The altitude and the scenes is what makes this the most beautiful."
Check the Weather First! :cloud:
Clear skies are essential for the best views. Don't miss out due to unexpected fog or clouds!
Arrive Early for Sunset :sunrise_over_mountains:
Secure a prime spot for the best sunset views and photo opportunities.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 100-Mile View
Hogback Mountain Country Store, Vermont
Panoramic vistas stretching across Vermont, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire. A true New England gem.
Sunset at Hogback Overlook
Skyline Drive, Shenandoah National Park
Witness the Shenandoah Valley bathed in golden light. A truly magical experience as day turns to night.
Hogback BBQ & Grill
Denver, Colorado
Savor mouthwatering, slow-smoked BBQ that's a local favorite. Get ready for a flavor explosion!
Scenic Drive on The Hogback
Utah (Bryce to Capitol Reef)
A stunning route offering dramatic landscapes and a unique geological formation. Perfect for road trip enthusiasts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Views
Shenandoah National Park Entry
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check the Weather First! :cloud:
Clear skies are essential for the best views. Don't miss out due to unexpected fog or clouds!
Arrive Early for Sunset :sunrise_over_mountains:
Secure a prime spot for the best sunset views and photo opportunities.
Pack Snacks & Drinks :apple:
Limited services at overlooks. Bring your own refreshments for a comfortable experience.
Wear Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:
You'll want to explore the overlooks. Comfortable footwear is a must for easy walking.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check the Weather First! :cloud:
Clear skies are essential for the best views. Don't miss out due to unexpected fog or clouds!
Arrive Early for Sunset :sunrise_over_mountains:
Secure a prime spot for the best sunset views and photo opportunities.
Pack Snacks & Drinks :apple:
Limited services at overlooks. Bring your own refreshments for a comfortable experience.
Wear Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:
You'll want to explore the overlooks. Comfortable footwear is a must for easy walking.
Consider a Weekday Visit :calendar:
Beat the weekend rush for a more peaceful experience at the overlooks.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Hogback Overlook for its stunning, expansive views of the Shenandoah Valley, often calling it the best overlook on Skyline Drive. The scenic drive itself is a major draw, with many appreciating the opportunity for leisurely exploration and photography. Some note light pollution can detract from night sky viewing, and the park entrance fee is a consideration.
"We drove a portion of the Skyview Drive in The Shenandoah Valley National Park. Nice scenic drive with many overlooks. Would recommend"
John Vassallo
"I mean how do you say anything other than amazing things about the Shenandoah Valley Views. Do yourself and anyone you know a favor & at least take a drive through here.
FOLLOW US @DIESELANDMO ON ALL SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS ✌️💫🤙"
Diesel And Mo
"One of the most beautiful places I've ever visited. And my God, the drive itself on the Skyline Drive is worth it! It is $30 for the ticket but mine was free since I'm a Veteran. I loved it even more because of that reason alone. I had my Caddy BW 6 Speed and I absolutely did my spirited driving here. The Hogback overlook is the best overlook here in my opinion. The altitude and the scenes is what makes this the most beautiful."
Soldier
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hogback Overlook is located along Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park, Virginia. You'll need to pay the park entrance fee to access Skyline Drive. The overlook is well-marked and easily accessible from the road. 
Yes, Hogback Overlook is directly accessible by car from Skyline Drive. There are parking areas available for visitors to stop and enjoy the views.
Yes, the Hogback Mountain Country Store is accessible by car and offers its own scenic overlook. It's a popular stop for those exploring southern Vermont.
Driving the Hogback route from Bryce to Capitol Reef is a popular choice. It's known for its dramatic scenery and is a memorable part of a Utah road trip.
Public transportation options directly to Hogback Overlook are limited. It's best accessed by private vehicle, especially if you plan to explore other parts of Shenandoah National Park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for Shenandoah National Park is typically around $30 per vehicle for a 7-day pass. However, some visitors have mentioned receiving free entry as veterans. It's advisable to check the official NPS website for current pricing.
No, reservations are generally not required to visit Hogback Overlook itself. However, Shenandoah National Park may implement timed entry reservations during peak seasons or for specific areas, so it's wise to check their official website before your visit.
There is no entrance fee to visit the Hogback Mountain Country Store or its overlook. You can enjoy the views and browse the store freely.
Yes, an America the Beautiful Pass is accepted for entry into Shenandoah National Park, which includes access to Hogback Overlook.
Hogback Overlook is accessible 24/7 as it's part of Skyline Drive. However, the best viewing times are during daylight hours, especially sunrise and sunset. The Hogback Mountain Country Store has specific operating hours.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, during sunrise and sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for photography at Hogback Overlook. Clear autumn days also provide stunning colors.
You can capture sweeping panoramic views of the Shenandoah Valley, rolling hills, and the distant river. It's also a great spot for capturing the changing colors of the seasons.
Use a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive views. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance the colors of the sky and landscape. Be mindful of light pollution if attempting astrophotography.
Absolutely! The country store itself is charming, and the overlook provides fantastic photo opportunities, especially with the surrounding landscape.
While possible, light pollution from nearby towns can affect night photography. For the best results, check for meteor showers or clear nights away from major light sources.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants directly at Hogback Overlook in Shenandoah National Park. You'll need to pack your own food or dine at facilities within the park or in nearby towns.
The Hogback Mountain Country Store offers snacks, and they are known for maple creemees during the summer. Nearby towns might have more dining options.
Hogback BBQ & Grill in Denver, Colorado, is highly recommended for its delicious smoked meats.
Yes, picnicking is a great option! There are designated picnic areas within Shenandoah National Park, and you can also find scenic spots to enjoy your own food at the overlooks.
In Utah, Hell's Backbone Grill in Boulder is a notable dining spot along The Hogback route, often praised by travelers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For younger visitors, the drive along Skyline Drive itself can be an adventure, with opportunities to spot wildlife. If visiting the Hogback Mountain Country Store in Vermont, the chance to try a maple creemee is sure to be a hit. The accessibility of these overlooks makes them ideal for families with strollers or young children who may not be up for strenuous hikes.
🚗 Road Trippers
In Utah, 'The Hogback' route is a legendary drive known for its dramatic cliffs and winding roads, making it a highlight for adventurous road trippers. Similarly, the Hogback Mountain Country Store in Vermont offers a charming stop with a view that's worth the detour. For BBQ lovers, a stop at Hogback BBQ & Grill in Denver adds a delicious culinary dimension to any road trip itinerary.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For those interested in astrophotography, while light pollution can be a factor, clear nights away from major towns can still yield impressive shots of the night sky over the mountains. The Hogback Mountain Country Store also presents unique photographic opportunities, blending rustic charm with natural beauty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Shenandoah's Skyline Drive
Key features of Skyline Drive include its 75 overlooks, each offering a unique perspective of the Shenandoah Valley to the west and the Piedmont region to the east. Hogback Overlook, specifically, is noted for its expansive views and altitude, making it a favorite among visitors. The road is also a gateway to numerous hiking trails, allowing for a deeper exploration of the park's natural beauty. Remember that the speed limit is 35 mph, encouraging a leisurely pace to fully appreciate the surroundings.
When planning your drive, consider the time of year. Fall foliage transforms the mountains into a riot of color, making it a prime destination for leaf-peepers. Summer offers lush greenery, while spring brings blooming wildflowers. Be prepared for varying weather conditions, as temperatures can change significantly with elevation.
The Charm of Hogback Mountain Country Store
The main draw, however, is the breathtaking overlook. On a clear day, the panoramic vista stretches across three states: Vermont, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire. It's a perfect spot to pause, take in the scenery, and capture some memorable photographs. Many visitors rave about the unobstructed views and the sense of peace it offers.
During the summer months, the store is particularly famous for its maple creemees, a delightful local treat that perfectly complements the scenic experience. Whether you're on a road trip through New England or seeking out underrated viewpoints, the Hogback Mountain Country Store is a must-visit destination.
Hogback BBQ & Grill: A Culinary Stop
The restaurant is known for its dedication to the craft of barbecue, with slow-smoking techniques that result in tender, juicy, and richly flavored meats. Whether you're craving pulled pork, brisket, or ribs, Hogback BBQ & Grill aims to deliver a satisfying meal. It's a testament to how the name 'Hogback' can be associated with diverse and memorable experiences across different regions.
If your travels take you to Denver and you're looking for a hearty and satisfying meal, Hogback BBQ & Grill is a destination that consistently receives praise from locals and visitors alike. It's a prime example of a local eatery making a significant impact on the food scene.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit