I've ridden Skyline drive. Maybe 8 or so years ago. We rented a cabin type thing somewhere near the northern most part , near Front Royal. Then we did day rides from there. Maybe it was just for a weekend, I don't remember all the details. What I do remember was a 18 mile long uphill. I was riding a Titanium Litespeed. Glad it had a triple. Glad I didnt have my camping gear.

ANyway, your ride sounds like a blast. I'd love to come down there and do it again, but next time I need more warning thatn 2 weeks