The Blue Ridge Parkway: A Guide to America’s Most Scenic Drive
If you’re looking for an incredible scenic drive with stunning mountain views, look no further than the Blue Ridge Parkway. Spanning 469 miles through the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia and North Carolina, the Blue Ridge Parkway is the most visited unit of the National Park Service and is guaranteed to take your breath away. From the vibrant fall foliage to the breathtaking mountain vistas, the Blue Ridge Parkway is sure to be one of the highlights of your trip.
About the Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of America’s most popular scenic byways, running through the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia and North Carolina. Built in the 1930s, the parkway stretches 469 miles from Waynesboro, Virginia to Cherokee, North Carolina, providing stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The parkway also serves as a gateway to other popular attractions in the area, including the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Shenandoah National Park.
What to See Along the Blue Ridge Parkway
From charming mountain towns to breathtaking natural wonders, there’s no shortage of things to see along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Here are some of the must-see attractions along the parkway:
- The Peaks of Otter: The Peaks of Otter is one of the most popular stops along the parkway, featuring three stunning peaks that rise over 4,000 feet above sea level. The Peaks of Otter are home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, white-tailed deer, and wild turkeys.
- Mabry Mill: The Mabry Mill is a popular stop along the Blue Ridge Parkway, featuring a restored gristmill and blacksmith shop. Visitors can also take a short hike to the nearby pond to enjoy the stunning mountain views.
- Linville Falls: Linville Falls is one of the most popular stops along the parkway, featuring a stunning waterfall cascading over rocky cliffs. Visitors can take a short hike to the falls or enjoy the view from the overlook.
- Crabtree Falls: Crabtree Falls is one of the most picturesque waterfalls along the Blue Ridge Parkway, featuring a 70-foot cascade down a rugged mountainside.
How to Get to the Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway is accessible from major cities in Virginia and North Carolina, including Roanoke, Virginia; Asheville, North Carolina; and Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Visitors can also access the parkway from the nearby cities of Waynesboro, Virginia and Cherokee, North Carolina.
Where to Stay Along the Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway offers a variety of lodging options for visitors, ranging from cozy cabins to luxury resorts. Here are some of the most popular lodging options along the parkway:
- The Omni Homestead Resort: Located in Hot Springs, Virginia, the Omni Homestead Resort is a luxurious resort offering stunning mountain views and world-class amenities.
- The Peaks of Otter Lodge: The Peaks of Otter Lodge is located at the base of the Peaks of Otter and offers cozy cabins with stunning mountain views.
- The Swag: The Swag is a luxury resort located in the Great Smoky Mountains, offering stunning mountain views and world-class amenities.
Conclusion
The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of America’s most beautiful scenic byways, offering stunning mountain views and a variety of attractions. From charming mountain towns to breathtaking natural wonders, there’s no shortage of things to see along the parkway. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or an outdoor adventure,