Elkwallow Wayside

Handy Skyline Drive pit stop for burgers, basics, and a breather

InsideShenandoah National Park

Overview

Elkwallow Wayside is the northern go-to pit stop on Skyline Drive (around mile 24–24.5). It’s a classic wayside: a quick-service grill, a small general store, restrooms, and a scattering of picnic tables ringed by forest. Drivers use it to break up the drive; Appalachian Trail hikers duck in for hot food and a resupply.

What You’ll Find

Food and refreshments: burgers, hot dogs, snacks, and grab‑and‑go basics.
Store shelves with trip savers: drinks, chips, basic camping items, souvenirs.
Clean restrooms, spacious parking, and picnic tables—some with shade.

Why Stop Here

Convenience. If you’re entering from the north, this is one of the first reliable spots for food and supplies. Hikers love that it’s just off the AT, and road‑trippers appreciate a real break with seating instead of just an overlook pullout.

Good to Know

No fuel here—plan your gas before you commit to the Drive.
Operations are seasonal; NPS typically closes the wayside in early November and reopens in April.
Weekends and fall foliage afternoons can get busy; expect lines at the counter.
Nearby but separate: Elkwallow Picnic Area, with more room to spread out.

Wildlife

Deer and wild turkeys are regulars around this stretch of Skyline Drive. Birdlife is active in the surrounding woods, and black bears do roam the park—don’t feed wildlife and keep food secured at the tables.

Best Time to Visit

Day of week: Weekdays are the easiest.
Time of day: Stop before 11 am or after 3 pm to dodge the lunch rush.
Season: Late spring through fall when the wayside is open; expect peak crowds during October foliage. Morning light is soft for photos of the building and surrounding woods, but this is a services stop more than a viewpoint.

Pros

Quick-service grill plus small store for easy resupply
Right on Skyline Drive and near the Appalachian Trail
Picnic tables, clean restrooms, and plenty of parking

Cons

Seasonal closure roughly November–April
Prices run higher than outside the park
No gas station on site

Tips

Check seasonal status; it typically closes from early November to April.
There’s no gas here—fuel up before you enter Skyline Drive.
To avoid lines, come before 11 am or after 3 pm, especially on weekends.
AT hikers: it’s steps off the trail and perfect for a quick resupply and hot meal.
On warm days expect gnats and bees near trash cans; pack repellent.