Moormans River Overlook

Moormans River Overlook is a roadside pullout on Skyline Drive at mile 92, known for its east-southeast view over the Charlottesville Reservoir, also called Sugar Hollow Reservoir. The water sits among wooded Blue Ridge ridges, and Moorman’s River feeds it. This is a quick viewpoint stop, not a route down to the river or the Sugar Hollow trails.

Look between the wooded slopes for the narrow stretch of blue water. For a photo, include the surrounding ridges so the reservoir reads clearly in the landscape; the view is right at the overlook, with no hike needed. Early light can bring out the water, while visitors have reported late-day shade. Fall color changes the scene as the forest turns.

Moorman’s River has had major floods in 1895, 1924, 1942 and 1995. The June 27, 1995 flood triggered nearly 100 landslides. Sugar Hollow Reservoir caught much of the debris moving downstream and helped prevent damage to homes below. The water in the view is part of the river’s watershed, not a natural lake.

Follow Skyline Drive to mile 92. The nearby Wildcat Ridge Parking Area serves separate trail access; it is not the overlook. A roadside pullout puts you at the viewpoint. Check current Skyline Drive conditions before setting out, since the road can close when conditions require it.