Make sure you have plenty of gas before you begin.
There are no gasoline stations on the drive.
Before you enter the drive, pack a picnic lunch
or take along snacks. Vending machines, located at the West End
Visitor Information Station, and the restaurant at the Queen Wilhelmina
Lodge, offer food and drink.
Check weather conditions on the drive before
leaving. Ice and fog can be a challenge on the drive even when
they are not a problem on lower roads.
Visit the East End or West End Visitor Information
Stations. These stations are staffed from springtime through fall.
They offer area information, brochures and have unique educational
materials for sale.
Take water with you to drink. Most of the stops
along the way do not provide drinking water. Water from streams
or springs, although they may run clear, may not be safe to drink.
Light jackets are appropriate for windy days,
or for fall, winter and spring outings.
If you plan to hike, wear comfortable shoes.
On most days, photo opportunities are numerous.
Take along extra film.
During the late spring, summer, and early fall
you may want to take insect repellent if you plan to enjoy the
trails.
Restrooms are located at all Ranger stations,
West End VIS (Visitor Information Station), Old Military Road,
Horse Thief Spring, Wind Stair Recreation Area, Pipe Spring, Kerr
Arboretum and Nature Center, Queen Wilhelmina State Park, Rich
Mountain Fire Tower, East End VIS (Visitor Information Station.)
