I love the Blue Ridge Parkway. It's not a destination, but an unbelievable journey. As I turn onto the Parkway, I leave all the stresses of life behind and enter a new tranquil world. It's a world of fantastic scenery, a world of southern Appalachian history, and a world of outdoor recreation that includes picnicking, camping, and of course, hiking.














The Blue Ridge Parkway is part of the National Parks system. It's located in the Southeastern US. It's northern terminus, milepost 0, is in Virginia at Shenandoah National Park. The southern terminus, milepost 469, is in North Carolina at Great Smoky Mountains National Park. What lies in between is an engineering marvel that began construction in 1935 as a Great Depression employment project, and wasn't completed until 1987 at the Linn Cove Viaduct near Grandfather Mountain.

The parkway is officially open all year, although there can be road closures in the winter due to ice and snow, and most facilities close by late October or November and re-open in May. Each season offers something different, whether it be be the spring blossoms, cool summer breezes, fall colors, or winter solitude. Here is the National Park Service opening and closing schedule for 2012.

If you're going to drive the parkway, get a Blue Ridge Parkway map at one of the many visitor centers along the highway. This will add to your enjoyment as you meander along the 2-lane road at a maximum speed of 45 mph (70 kph). There are many overlooks to pull off and enjoy the season and the views, often without ever getting out of your vehicle. There is no commercial traffic. There are no billboards.

You'll find many attractions along the parkway that depict the history and culture of the area. There are many exhibits along the way showing 19th century mountain agriculture, mining, logging, and other trades. My favorite stops are the Folk Art Center (MP 382), Moses Cone Estate (MP 294), and Mabry Mill (MP 176), which grinds grits that are used in their restaurant.

Blue Ridge Parkway lodging and camping are popular during the warm months. There are 4 lodges along the parkway: The Peaks of Otter Lodge (MP 86), Rocky Knob Cabins (MP 174), Bluffs Lodge (MP 240), and Pisgah Inn (MP 408). There are 9 campgrounds spaced out along the parkway for a fee of $16 (as of 2010 season).

Good lodging can also be found in some of the towns near the parkway. Roanoke, Virginia is the largest city along the parkway, and attracts many overnight visitors. Towards the south, the next largest city is Asheville, North Carolina. This rejuvenated mountain town is worth a few days to explore if you have the time.

The parkway is very different in Virginia versus North Carolina. Virginia has lower elevations and you're much closer to agricultural areas and towns. This can be seen in the vistas that look out over the developed surrounding valleys. North Carolina has higher elevations, cutting through rugged, undeveloped mountain terrain. The highest point of the parkway is 6053 feet (1845 meters) toward the southern end at milepost 431.

No matter where you are on the parkway, you won't be far from hiking opportunities. There are short leg stretchers to give a break from driving. There are longer, more serious hikes. The pages on different Blue Ridge Parkway attractions will focus on hiking. In many cases, hiking is the attraction. Often, the hiking trails lead to trails that are part of state parks or national forests.

Whether you are on the Parkway, or on the trail, you're surrounded by beautiful natural landscape. There are a lot of good hiking and cycling guides available to enhance your visit so you don't miss anything. Browse through the Amazon offerings below and pick out one to have handy while you're stopped at one of the many overlooks on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Parkway Hiking and Cycling Guides


When visiting the parkway, keep in mind that the temperatures are usually 5 to 20 degrees F cooler than the lower surrounding areas. This is especially true in North Carolina, with the higher elevations. It can be quite windy too. Dress in layers. Bring extra clothing, like a couple of jackets or sweatshirts. Be prepared. Don't stand at an overlook, shivering, wishing you brought an extra sweater.

A trip to the parkway will provide an unforgettable experience with memories that will last a lifetime. Spend a few days. Go slow. Take your time. You too will be saying "I love the Blue Ridge Parkway".

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Open up the Blue Ridge Parkway map. Get oriented. Follow along and find the mileposts below on the map. Note, the top of the map is to the northeast. The bottom is to the northwest.



On July 8, 2011, news media reported the destruction of the iconic sign at Richland Balsam Overlook. This brings to the forefront the growing problem of vandalism on the parkway. There's been damage inflicted on mowers and other equipment. The Cold Mountain Overlook sign has been stolen several times. Graffiti is showing up more frequently. There have been break-ins at the Craggy Gardens Visitor Center.

How do you feel about parkway vandalism?

It's hard to believe that a beautiful masterpiece like the Blue Ridge Parkway is being struck by vandals. Have you seen the results of vandalism? How do you feel about this sad turn of events? What should be done to stop it? Have your thoughts posted on this site.

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