Originally Posted by
JimF22003
You won't find anything even remotely like climbing up Reeds Gap on Skyline Drive, believe me
On the first section from the northern entrance, the only notable "climbs" are the first six miles from the entrance, and then the climb up Hogback before rolling down into Elk Wallow. Neither goes above 6%, so they're just longish. Hogback is about 3 miles.
From where 211 crosses at Thornton Gap there's a pretty good climb up to The Pinnacles, and then a bit more up to Skyland (the highest point.) But Big Meadows is almost the same elevation, so it's uphill to there. If you want more of a challenge you can roll down into Sperryville on Rt 211 and then climb back up. That takes you from about 700 feet to 3700 at Skyland. Thornton Gap is about 2280 feet.
Seriously, if you've done anything on the BRP, there's nothing on Skyline that is any harder. Have a great trip!
BTW, they had snow at Big Meadows on Sunday
Thanks for the insight!!
Not sure what your plans are for the weekend but if you don't mind watching a bunch of flatlanders suffer their way up you are more than welcome to join us. We get into town late friday but don't plan on riding the northern leg until around noon Saturday. Shoot me a PM if you're interested.