Dickey Ridge Visitor Center

The northern gateway to Shenandoah National Park, sitting at mile 4.6 of Skyline Drive just above Front Royal. Rangers here hand out trail maps and current conditions, and a compact exhibit hall covers the park's geology, wildlife and the story of the mountain families displaced when it was created in the 1930s.

The terrace outside opens onto a broad view over the Shenandoah Valley — a good first orientation stop before the drive climbs south along the ridge. Restrooms, bookstore and passport stamp on site; park entrance fee applies.