An extra danger lurks above when visiting national parks in winter and spring.
Icicles might look pretty dangling from overhangs, caves, waterfalls, and tunnel entrances but they can cause injury to people and hazards to drivers.
Shenandoah National Park recently posted this warning to social media: "Icicles can be exciting to view as they seem to drip frozen in time. However, icicles will eventually fall; never linger underneath an area with heavy icicles. When they do fall, ice can collect on the road underneath. If you see ice on the road, reduce speed, maintain plenty of distance from other vehicles or consider using lower gear."
The post reminded drivers to be especially aware of icicles and ice on the road at the park's Marys Rock Tunnel on Skyline Drive. The tunnel, located at mile 32 just south of the Thornton Gap entrance station, is an iconic landmark along the route and is considered one of the park's greatest engineering feats. It was built in 1932.
While there is no official database of incidents related to icicles, a report from Cleveland Clinic says they can cause cuts or head injuries. They are most likely to fall when temperatures fluctuate widely or thaw, according to the report.
Skyline Drive, including Marys Rock Tunnel, sometimes closes due to winter weather. The entire 105-mile scenic highway was shut down by a storm in January.
Stories about:
Story Categories:
A copy of National Parks Traveler's financial statements may be obtained by sending a stamped, self-addressed envelope to: National Parks Traveler, P.O. Box 980452, Park City, Utah 84098. National Parks Traveler was formed in the state of Utah for the purpose of informing and educating about national parks and protected areas.
Residents of the following states may obtain a copy of our financial and additional information as stated below:
- Florida: A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION FOR NATIONAL PARKS TRAVELER, (REGISTRATION NO. CH 51659), MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING 800-435-7352 OR VISITING THEIR WEBSITE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.
- Georgia: A full and fair description of the programs and financial statement summary of National Parks Traveler is available upon request at the office and phone number indicated above.
- Maryland: Documents and information submitted under the Maryland Solicitations Act are also available, for the cost of postage and copies, from the Secretary of State, State House, Annapolis, MD 21401 (410-974-5534).
- North Carolina: Financial information about this organization and a copy of its license are available from the State Solicitation Licensing Branch at 888-830-4989 or 919-807-2214. The license is not an endorsement by the State.
- Pennsylvania: The official registration and financial information of National Parks Traveler may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling 800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.
- Virginia: Financial statements are available from the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, 102 Governor Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219.
- Washington: National Parks Traveler is registered with Washington State’s Charities Program as required by law and additional information is available by calling 800-332-4483 or visiting www.sos.wa.gov/charities, or on file at Charities Division, Office of the Secretary of State, State of Washington, Olympia, WA 98504.
National parks and their natural resources belong to you. The National Parks Traveler works to ensure you know how these essential places are being cared for.
Sign Up For Our Weekly Newsletter
Unsubscribe at any time.
INN Member
The easiest way to explore RV-friendly National Park campgrounds.
Here’s the definitive guide to National Park System campgrounds where RVers can park their rigs.
Our app is packed with RVing- specific details on more than 250 campgrounds in more than 70 national parks.
You’ll also find stories about RVing in the parks, tips helpful if you’ve just recently become an RVer, and useful planning suggestions.
