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Photograph Moormans River Overlook

Grottoes, Virginia

5.0/5
based on 1 reviews

Description

Added by Brandon Dewey

Moormans River Overlook is one of the best eastern facing overlooks in Shenandoah National Park’s Southern District.

Moormans River Overlook is one of the few eastern facing overlooks in Shenandoah National Park’s Southern District, which makes this a prime location for watching the sun rise when in this part of the park.  At mile post 92 off of Skyline Drive, Moormans River Overlook offers photographers a 180 degree view of the eastern most Blue Ridge Mountains and rolling hills surrounding Charlottesville, Virginia.  The overlook also provides a clear view of the Charlottesville Reservoir, which could be used as a nice foreground element.  At 2,975 feet, Moormans River Overlook is one of 72 beautiful overlooks that are on Skyline Drive.  Skyline Drive is the road that winds through the heart of Shenandoah National Park, is 105 miles long, and offers great views of the surrounding Blue Ride Mountains and valleys while simultaneously offering photographers the chance to glimpse the outstanding scenery of Shenandoah. The quickest way to reach this outlook is through the Rockfish Gap entrance off of Interstate 64 and then drive 13 miles North along Skyline Drive until you reach Moormans River Overlook, which will be on the right side. 

One thing I really love about this overlook is the fact there are no trees growing right up next to the outlook to obstruct the view.  Photographers have a clear eastern view even during the heart of the summer when the trees are full of leaves. The 180 degree view allows photographers to capture Cedar Mountain to the Northeast and Calf Mountain to the Southwest and will also allow photographers to capture the sun rising year around.  When looking to the Northeast or Southwest, photographers are able to capture multiple mountain ridges providing layers to their image.  Since Moormans River overlook is so close to interstate 64 and one of few eastern facing overlooks in Shenandoah’s Southern District, it can be popular.  With that said, there are enough parking spots, and because of the clear view, there is plenty of room for people to spread out.

Moormans River Overlook is near a lot of great hikes in the Shenandoah National Park Southern District.  After you enjoy the views, I highly recommend checking out one of these hikes: Blackroack Summit and Frazier Discovery Trail

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Chillin
Photography
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Photograph Moormans River Overlook Reviews

This really is one of the best overlooks in Southern Shenandoah to catch a sunrise. You'll be rewarded with great mountain views and light reflecting off the lake below. Also within proximity to a lot of wonderful hikes you can hit up after watching the sunrise.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Hike Moorman's River

Hike Turk Mountain

Photograph Charlottesville Reservoir

Blackrock Summit, Shenandoah NP

Hike to Jones Run Waterfall

Hike to Doyles Falls