I have done the skyline on a credit card tour stayed in Big Meadows Lodge and Front Royal and then turned around and went back to Big Meadows and back to the car- 4 days. I know most people don't like out and backs, but it was a good trip , in fact i have. reservations to do it again in a couple of weeks. Each day is about 5000 feet of climbing and the day out of Front Roayl to Big Meadows is the toughest. The waysides and the lodges are spaced out perfectly for meals and water. Like I said it was a credit card tourand I didn't carry much. Great trip love the Skyline drive, but watch out for the rangers they are tough - you need lights and to stay single file.

Whatever you do have fun!