Place · 0.1 mi away
Overview
Tucked into the Skyland Upper Loop, this small, free destination charger setup is one of the few EV options on Skyline Drive. It’s a practical pit stop rather than a destination, but the setting is hard to beat—you can top up while grabbing a meal, browsing the gift shop, or hopping onto nearby trails.
What to Expect
- Hardware: One Tesla connector and one J1772 connector.
- Speed: Typical rates reported around 6–7 kW (Level 2). Plan hours, not minutes.
- Cost: Free to use.
- Location: In the Skyland parking area near the lodge, restaurants, and shop.
- Connectivity: Cell service is spotty to none—assume you won’t be able to check your app while hiking.
Why Use This Stop
If you’re exploring the high country around Skyland, this is the most convenient place to sip electrons while you do something better with your time. The Stony Man and Little Stony Man trails are close enough for a scenic loop while you charge, and the lodge area has food, drinks, and views.
Nearby Things To Do While You Charge
- Eat: Skyland’s dining room and taproom are a short walk away.
- Browse: The gift shop is handy for snacks and souvenirs.
- Hike: Stony Man and other trailheads are within easy reach; many drivers charge while hiking.
- Enjoy the view: The ridge-top location serves up classic valley vistas right around the lodge.
Wildlife Notes
Deer and wild turkeys are regulars around Skyland, with occasional black bear sightings near dawn and dusk. Keep your distance and secure food in your vehicle.
Reliability & Capacity
With just two ports, this spot fills up—especially when overnight guests leave cars plugged in. Reports range from smooth, free charging to units being down or blocked. Don’t bank your entire trip on it; have a backup plan elsewhere on Skyline Drive or in nearby towns.
Best Time to Visit
Midday on weekdays tends to be your best bet—after morning departures free up spots and before evening arrivals. Weekends and peak seasons (especially fall foliage) see more competition. For photography and views, late afternoon light around Skyland is lovely, but that’s also when parking tightens.
Pros
- Free Level 2 charging for Tesla and J1772
- Right by Skyland’s dining, gift shop, and trail access
Cons
- Only two ports and slow (about 6–7 kW); waits are common
- Reliability can be hit-or-miss and spots may be blocked by guests
Tips
- Bring a J1772-to-Tesla or Tesla-to-J1772 adapter as needed.
- Plan to charge while you hike Stony Man or dine at Skyland to make the wait productive.
- Arrive midday after checkout for the best chance at an open spot.
- Assume no cell signal—note your starting state of charge before you leave the car.
- Have a backup charging plan in case the units are down or occupied.
