Best Scenic Drives Near Afton, Virginia

A Local's Guide to Breathtaking Roads

Afton, VA, is one of those magical places where every road seems to lead to a postcard-worthy view. Located at the intersection of Skyline Drive and the Blue Ridge Parkway, this area is famous for its rolling mountains, lush valleys, and some of the most scenic drives in Virginia. Whether you're here for the wineries and breweries along the Route 151 Beer & Wine Trail, chasing fall foliage, or simply looking for a relaxing drive with incredible vistas, Afton has you covered.

As a local who’s spent years exploring these roads, I’m here to guide you through the best scenic drives near Afton, VA, complete with insider tips on the must-see stops along the way.

The Best Scenic Drives in the Afton Area

To make your adventure planning easy, I’ve broken down the best routes into three categories:

Iconic Mountain Drives:

• Skyline Drive

• Blue Ridge Parkway

Wine & Brewery-Filled Countryside Routes:

• Route 151 Beer & Wine Trail

• Route 250 Scenic Byway

Off-the-Beaten-Path Backroads:

• Reeds Gap Road & Love Road Loop

• Tye River Valley & Crabtree Falls Route

Skyline Drive: The Crown Jewel of Shenandoah National Park

Location: Shenandoah National Park
Length: 105 miles (Afton to Front Royal, VA)
Driving Time: 3-4 hours (without stops)
Entrance Fee: $30 per vehicle (valid for 7 days)

Drive Overview

If you only have time for one scenic drive in Virginia, make it Skyline Drive. Running the entire length of Shenandoah National Park, this winding mountain road offers stunning panoramic views, abundant wildlife, and countless overlooks where you can pull over and soak in the scenery. I’ve driven this road in every season, and it never fails to impress—whether it’s the vibrant greens of summer, the fiery reds and oranges of fall, or the snow-covered wonderland of winter.

Must-See Stops

• Rockfish Gap Entrance Station – The southern gateway to Skyline Drive, just outside of Afton.

• Moorman’s River Overlook (Mile 92.1) – A fantastic stop for sunrise lovers. I’ve spent many early mornings here with a thermos of coffee, watching the first light hit the mountains.

• Loft Mountain Wayside (Mile 79.5) – Grab a snack and take in the view. The blackberry milkshakes here are a personal favorite!

• Big Meadows (Mile 51.2) – A perfect place to stretch your legs, hike, and spot wildlife. I’ve had more deer sightings here than anywhere else in Shenandoah.

• Skyland Resort (Mile 41.7) – A great place to grab a meal with a view. Their fried green tomatoes are legendary!

Best Time to Drive

Fall for peak foliage. October is absolutely stunning, but be prepared for crowds.

Early morning or sunset for the best light and fewer crowds. I once caught a foggy sunrise here that made the mountains look like an ocean of rolling waves.

Blue Ridge Parkway: America’s Favorite Drive

Location: Runs from Afton, VA, to Cherokee, NC
Length: 469 miles (Afton to Great Smoky Mountains)
Driving Time: As long as you want—take your time\!
Entrance Fee: Free

Drive Overview

The Blue Ridge Parkway starts right here in Afton and is one of the most beautiful and relaxing drives you’ll ever experience. Unlike Skyline Drive, this road is free to access and offers a more leisurely pace, with rolling farmland, scenic overlooks, and a mix of forested and open landscapes. I’ve spent entire days meandering along this road, stopping at overlooks, hiking short trails, and enjoying picnics with a view. If you’re up for an unforgettable road trip, keep heading south and follow the Parkway all the way into North Carolina!

Must-See Stops

• Humpback Rocks (Mile 5.8) – Hike to the best view in the area. I take visiting friends here all the time, and it never disappoints.

• Raven’s Roost Overlook (Mile 10.7) – A local favorite for sunset. I once proposed a toast to a friend’s engagement here, and it was pure magic.

• Peaks of Otter (Mile 85.6) – Scenic lake and lodge. The lodge has a cozy feel, and the pancakes at the restaurant are a must-try.

• Mabry Mill (Mile 176.2) – A charming historic gristmill. I still have a bag of stone-ground grits I bought here years ago!

Best Time to Drive

Spring for wildflowers. The rhododendrons and mountain laurel are breathtaking.

Fall for spectacular foliage. Mid-October is peak season, and I always make a point to drive it at least once then.

Route 151 Beer & Wine Trail: A Foodie’s Dream Drive

Location: Nelson County, VA
Length: 30 miles
Driving Time: Half-day to full-day adventure

Drive Overview

Route 151 is where scenic countryside meets craft beverages. This drive takes you through Nelson County’s rolling hills, past vineyards, cideries, and breweries, all with the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains as a backdrop. I love hopping between stops, trying a different drink at each one, and enjoying a leisurely meal with mountain views.

Must-See Stops

• Blue Mountain Brewery – Pizza and craft beer with a view. Their hop-heavy IPAs are fantastic, but I always go for the Full Nelson.

• Veritas Vineyard – Elegant wines and tastings. Their Starry Nights summer concert series is a local favorite.

• Bold Rock Hard Cider – Refreshing ciders made from local apples. I always bring home a growler of their seasonal releases.

• Devil’s Backbone Basecamp – A local favorite for food, beer, and atmosphere. Their smoked meats are some of the best around.

Best Time to Drive

Spring and summer for vineyard greenery. Nothing beats sitting on a patio with a glass of wine and the mountains in the distance.

Fall for crisp air and cider season. The combination of golden leaves and a cold glass of Bold Rock cider is pure autumn perfection.

Conclusion

Whether you’re chasing mountain vistas, sipping your way through Nelson County’s wineries, or just looking for a relaxing Sunday drive, Afton, VA, has a scenic route for you. From the iconic heights of Skyline Drive to the rolling countryside of Route 151, every drive offers something unique. So, roll down your windows, take your time, and enjoy the ride!