May 18, 2025
Day 3 - Loft Mountain Campground
Day 3 - Skyland to Loft Mountain Campground is very challenging, but manageable in one day, especially if you stop at Big Meadows Campground. Big Meadows is about half way to Loft Mountain and they have a place to eat and restock. They offer breakfast options too. The staff was amazing and so was the breakfast sandwich.
The views from Big Meadows are dramatically different from the rest of the park. It is more of a plateau ~ big open area of green grass and a trail that looked inviting. I did not visit the campground only to the visitor's center and the store/snack place. Both are right off Skyline Drive so you don't have to climb a hill - a rarity in this park.
The climbing opportunities continue from Big Meadows to Loft Mountain. The ascents seem more intense after Big Meadows (in my opinion). You remain at a max elevation of 3,000-plus, but there are a lot more ups and downs. The overlooks along this section offer a good place to relax and get refueled.
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1 week ago
Note: This section of the Skyline Drive seems to have more blind turns in it. Be aware that site lines for motorists and cyclists are poor making safety a concern. You are probably experienced if you are up here, so......
Loft Mountain Campground and Loft Mountain Wayside - is less busy than Big Meadows. The Wayside is bigger than the previous one, offering more options on food. There is another camp store in Loft Mountain Campground. The Wayside hours are better than the camp store ~ the camp store has a STRICT. 5 pm. closure, so don't expect them to bend for late comers.
My biggest takeaway with Loft Mountain is that the climb to the store and campground is long and steep. The store comes first - on a road that seems to climb forever. The store offers camping supplies, and snacks, but few real food options. You might consider getting them (burgers, fries, ice cream) at the Wayside before climbing to your overnight.
The Ranger station and entrance to the camping area is up another endless uphill road from the camp store. The campground sits on top of the mountain so, the open areas can be very windy and exposed, so take that into consideration.
Limited cell service is available up there; the best service was at the Wayside. The restrooms were nice; no showers up there ~ they are at the camp store down the hill.
Note: The best thing about this campground is that it is all downhill to Skyline Drive ~ a rarity again.
Today's ride: 39 miles (63 km)
Total: 83 miles (134 km)
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