The warmth of Indian summer brought thousands to Sben

The warmth of Indian summer brought thousands to Sben andoah National Park during [he past weekend to catch a Last glimpse of fall color in the forests of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Superintendent R. Taylor Hoskins reported toddy Total visits for the two-day period were 44,339, which, although far below the nearrecord of 78,600 last weekend when the color was at its best, was the second highest weekend of travel along Skyline Drive during October, which traditionally has been the month when the transformation from summer to fall is . most noticeable, Hoskins said. Hoskins advised that although the Park entrance stations will close for the winter October 30, Skyline Drive will remain open to the public, weather permitting. , As in the past, the Big Meadows Campground will be available, ana this winter One heated comfort station will be kept open until such time as severe weather may necessitate its closing. If this is necessary, pit toilets will be utilized as in the past. Also remaining open during the wir> ter will be the Dundo Campground and picnic area. The Lewis Mountain and Loft Motm tain Campgrounds and picnic areas will be closed October 31 and November 9, respectively, Hoskins stated. Other picnic areas will remain open. For the benefit of late fall travelers, the Park's two Visitor Centers will remain open until November 19. They are at Dickey Ridge and Big Meadows. Naturalist programs will continue at the two lodges in the Park until they closeSkyland on October 31 and Big Meadows on November 7. As In the past, the Panorama Restaurant and Gift Shop, located near the crossroads of Skyline Drive and U. S. 211, will remain open through the winter, although on a reduced schedule.