The Blue Ridge Parkway

Fall has finally arrived. Temperatures are turning cooler and Mother Nature has begun putting on one of her most spectacular shows. Forests across the nation are being transformed. Trees are now filled with gorgeous red, orange, yellow, and golden leaves. People are gearing up to take driving tours to look at beautiful fall foliage. And, one of the nation’s best drives offers some spectacular views.

The Blue Ridge Parkway runs from Shenandoah National Park to Great Smoky Mountain National Park. For 489 miles, drivers will travel through some of the most spectacular mountain scenery east of the Mississippi River. Fall provides an extra incentive to visit. Fall foliage is spectacular here. Forests line the parkway which means ample leaf peeping opportunities. Overlooks provide picture perfect views and great picnic areas.



Many attractions and natural landmarks are close to the Parkway. Easy on and off access allows the traveler to visit one of the many close by cozy mountain towns. Towns like Boone, Hendersonville, Asheville, and Cherokee are located just a few miles from the main road. Some of the more popular attractions and sites include:

• Natural Bridge of Virginia
• Shenandoah Caverns in Virginia
• Chimney Rock Park, NC
• Grandfather Mountain, NC
• Mount Mitchell State Park – the highest mountain peak east of the Mississippi River
• Linville Falls, NC
• Linn Cove Viaduct – a 1,234 foot curve with gorgeous views
• Mount Pisgah
• The Biltmore Estate, NC

The Parkway’s speed limit is 45 mph. Take your time enjoying the sights. Be on the lookout for wildlife. Deer love to graze by the side of the road and an occasional black bear comes out hunting for fruits and berries. The drive is open year round, but inclement weather does force closures. Expect extreme temperatures changes. Last October, we were caught in a snowstorm!!

For more information about The Blue Ridge Parkway, check out their website: www.blueridgeparkway.org.