The Blue Ridge Parkway: America’s Favorite Drive 

The Blue Ridge Parkway has been called “America’s Favorite Drive” – and for good reason. Stretching 469 miles, this ribbon of road wends its way past the postcard-perfect farms and pastures of southwestern Virginia and crosses the high mountain peaks of western North Carolina. No other road gives more picturesque views of the southern Appalachian countryside or offers as many panoramas of verdant valleys and blue-hued mountain peaks that stretch as far as the eye can see.

More than a drive, this All-American Road offers 350 miles of hiking trails. Take a 5-minute stroll or head out for the day. Trailheads are accessible from many overlooks. These footpaths will take you through diverse settings, from crystal-clear mountain streams to spectacular waterfalls, through lush forests and across broad meadows.

There’s no need to hurry. The parkway was built as a “drive a while, stop a while” retreat. For overnighters, nine rustic campgrounds accommodate tents and RVs. For those who want more creature comforts, three modern lodges offer full-service restaurants, all in beautiful natural settings. Other accommodations and services are available in adjoining towns and communities that are easily reached via the many state and U.S. highways that cross the scenic corridor. Take time to explore. Many communities offer shops, museums and special celebrations that showcase the history, art and culture of the Southern mountains.      

Trip Notes

On the parkway, more than a dozen museums and visitor centers offer exhibits about nature and history and information about things to see and do nearby. Most are open mid-May through October.

New for 2007

Exhibits that explore the Depression-era origins of the Blue Ridge Parkway, regional history and natural history will be unveiled in June at the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center at Explore Park, located at milepost 115 in Roanoke, Va. The gallery highlights the intense controversy that surrounded the 1930s creation of this picturesque road and the many challenges that today’s National Park Service managers confront in maintaining its scenic charm.

Enduring Favorites

In Virginia, “must see” stops include the Humpback Rocks farm and museum at milepost 5 and the rugged 4,000-acre Peaks of Otter near Bedford. Mabry Mill, an old-fashioned gristmill at milepost 176 near Meadows of Dan, offers blacksmithing and other cultural demonstrations. Nearby, hiking trails at Rock Castle Gorge traverse some of the most botanically rich sites along the parkway. The Blue Ridge Music Center, at milepost 213 near Galax, offers weekly summertime concerts of mountain music and a visitor center that is open daily in summer and fall.

Driving Tips

While the parkway is closed to commercial traffic, tour bus/motor coach touring is permitted, and no permit is required. Motorcycles and RVs are also welcome. Beware: Some curves can be tricky for motorcyclists, and caution is advised. RVers should note that campgrounds do not offer hookups, but potable water and dump stations are provided. All campgrounds offer some sites that will accommodate larger RVs. Most tunnels provide plenty of clearance, although several near Cherokee have a minimum height of fewer than 11 feet at the road’s edge, and drivers of especially tall vehicles should favor the center line.

For nearly 60 years, the Blue Ridge Parkway Association has promoted and supported the Blue Ridge Parkway through a formal agreement with the National Park Service. The Association’s annual directory and travel planner offers the most comprehensive listing of accommodations and services along the entire scenic corridor, including neighboring Shenandoah and Great Smoky Mountains national parks. For trip planning and more information on the Blue Ridge Parkway, visit www.blueridgeparkway.org.