Bacon Hollow Overlook

Overview

A classic Skyline Drive pullout around milepost 69, Bacon Hollow Overlook sits at roughly 2,455 feet and looks south across its namesake hollow toward the rolling Virginia Piedmont. It’s an easy, low-effort stop with a big payoff—broad layers of ridges and valley unfolding in front of you.

What makes it worth a stop

• Big, open vista with that Blue Ridge “layers on layers” look.
• Often a little calmer than the park’s headline overlooks, which keeps the vibe peaceful.
• Photographers like the soft, golden-hour light here; on clear days you can see deep into the Piedmont.

What you’ll actually see

Expect sweeping ridgelines, a deep drop into Bacon Hollow, and distant rural landscapes on clear days. Seasonal color pops—fresh greens in spring and a strong fall foliage show. Fog can drift through; if it lifts, the reveal can be dramatic.

Wildlife

Morning bird activity can be good from the wall—bring binoculars. As with most of Shenandoah, deer and turkeys are around, but wildlife sightings here are hit-or-miss from the pavement.

Logistics and nearby options

This is a straightforward roadside overlook with a small paved parking bay and stonework barrier. No restrooms, water, or tables. It’s not a trailhead, but hikes lie nearby along Skyline Drive (for example, waterfall hikes like Doyles River are within a short drive).

Best time to visit

• Open 24/7, but the drive itself can close in bad weather—check road status before you go.
• Weekends and midday see the most traffic; early mornings or late afternoons are quieter.
• The view faces south. Golden hours tend to flatter the scene; sunrise may be partially blocked by nearby ridges, while late-day light often works well.