I’ve always been a fan of Skyline Drive. Growing up, my family would take my sister and I out of school one day each fall and we would all head to Skyline Drive to enjoy the fall leaves. And now that I’m older, I keep that tradition alive by visiting each fall. But, Skyline Drive isn’t just for leaf peepers. It’s actually pretty great year-round, even during the winter months.

When my husband and I first moved closer, I knew I wanted to visit the drive at least once every season. I found flowers in spring, sunny days in summer and of course, the leaves in fall. However, perhaps the most amazing thing I found is the ice in winter.

Due to snow and winter weather, Skyline Drive is closed for long periods during the winter, but if there happens to be a week or so without snow, it’ll open and is worth taking advantage of. Not only will you find leftover snow on the ground and mountains, you’ll also find tons of ice. Due to the cold temperatures, the creeks and springs freeze, leaving large patches of ice, sometimes even trickling down the rocks. It’s gorgeous. If you get the chance to go in the winter, do it. You won’t regret it, but wear a heavy coat, warm boots and gloves because with the winter temperatures and elevation, it’ll be quite cold up there.