Winding through the highest mountain views on the East Coast, the Blue Ridge Parkway was built to connect the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to Shenandoah National Park. Begun in The Great Depression, it covers 469 miles beginning in Waynesboro, VA and ending in Cherokee, NC. It helped communities in the past and present with economic impact. * 3 Mountain Ranges * 16 peaks above 5,000 feet * Vast variety of animal species including: 43 Amphibians, 99 Fish, 60 Mammals, 31 Reptiles * 74 globally rare plant and animal species ** Open year round except during closures due to weather or construction, traffic depends on the time of the year. The fall colors are the peak season for the Parkway but wnter, spring and summer are beautiful in their own right. The Blue Ridge Parkway presents its travelers with what is best described as a “[ride-a-while, stop-a-while](https://www.shakaguide.com/article/blue-ridge-parkway/blue-ridge-parkway-history)” experience that includes scenic pullouts, recreation areas and opportunities, historic sites, and visitor contact stations. Nationally and internationally known for its designed landscape as a scenic parkway, the parkway is many things to many people, and different things at different times. Not only is the Blue Ridge Parkway America's longest road planned as a single park unit, it serves to protect some of the Southeast's most visually stunning and ecologically sensitive and significant landscapes. Beyond the parkway's shoulders is a range of geography and topography. Highland passes, native “gardens” of flowering flora, falling water, deep forests, rocky ridge tops and supple meadows, the parkway provides a continuous series of panoramic views and rich opportunities for exiting your vehicle and exploring the adjacent countryside. The Blue Ridge Parkway and the corridor it travels through are a complex fusion of overlapping jurisdictions, interests, and responsibilities. Twenty-nine counties through North Carolina and Virginia share the parkway, which also connects boundaries with other national park system units, national forests, tribal lands, and state parks. **A Scenic Journey Through Southern Appalachia** The Blue Ridge Parkway's picturesque route serves as a complement to the [Appalachian Trail](https://www.nps.gov/appa/index.htm), providing an accessible alternative for those who may not have the time or physical abilities to fully immerse themselves in the trail's rugged terrain. The Blue Ridge Parkway is renowned for its breathtaking views, as it weaves its way along the highest ridges and mountains in North Carolina and Virginia. With elevations ranging from 649 to 6,053 feet, the parkway offers a diverse array of landscapes, from lush forests and rolling hills to dramatic cliffs and valleys. Along the route, travelers can enjoy numerous overlooks, providing panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside. **Historical Significance** Constructed in the 1930s as part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal programs, the Blue Ridge Parkway was designed to connect Shenandoah National Park in Virginia with Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. The parkway's construction provided much-needed employment during the Great Depression, with the Civilian Conservation Corps responsible for much of the landscaping and trail work. The iconic stone masonry found throughout the parkway was completed by Italian and Spanish craftsmen. ![](https://cdn.elebase.io/f73a5e12-7a94-4da0-96b6-40fd97435fd2/f510782c-06be-4526-8d02-8726889508af-blueridgebridge.jpeg)

pic.twitter.com/Uz0nAa9Kkz
— Cruadin (@cruadin) June 3, 2023

**Multi-Modal Fun** The Blue Ridge Parkway is designed for leisurely auto-touring and motorcycling, with a typical speed limit of 45 miles per hour. This allows visitors to fully appreciate the grandeur of the surrounding landscapes. The parkway is also accessible for cyclists, although it does not have designated bike lanes. Bicyclists should exercise particular caution and be prepared for changing weather conditions and steep climbs. In addition to driving and cycling, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers over 369 miles of hiking trails, with options for all skill levels. The [Appalachian Trail](https://appalachiantrail.org/explore/hike-the-a-t/interactive-map/) and [Mountains to Sea Trail](https://mountainstoseatrail.org) are two long-distance trails that follow closely with stretches of the parkway, offering opportunities for both day hikes and multi-day backpacking trips. !["Bicycling the Blue Ridge" by Elizabeth and Charlie Skinner is a definitive guide to pedaling along America's Favorite Drive.](https://cdn.elebase.io/f73a5e12-7a94-4da0-96b6-40fd97435fd2/b288f183-f34e-4195-903b-e3a28d2699fc-bikingblueridge.jpeg) **Recharging Route** Immersing oneself in the natural wonders along the Blue Ridge Parkway offers a transformative escape from the hectic pace of urban life. Nature's embrace in this preserved wilderness can have a profoundly therapeutic and salutary effect on the human spirit. Amidst the ancient forests, rolling hills, and cascading waterfalls, the burdens of daily life seem to melt away. The crisp mountain air invigorates the senses, while the symphony of rustling leaves and chirping birds replaces the clamor of city streets and jammed freeways. It's a sensory recalibration that soothes the mind and nourishes the soul. Nature's therapeutic influence is well-documented. Studies reveal that spending time in natural settings reduces stress, lowers blood pressure, and [enhances overall well-being](https://www.fs.usda.gov/features/wellness-benefits-great-outdoors). Along the Blue Ridge Parkway an abundance of activities and serene observation points encourage mindfulness and provide a profound sense of peace. Moreover, the lessons nature imparts are invaluable. The ever-changing seasons remind us of life's impermanence, teaching resilience and adaptability. The interconnectedness of ecosystems underscores the importance of cooperation and balance. Nature's beauty itself is a reminder of the simple yet profound joy that can be found in the present moment. In essence, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers a sanctuary where individuals can pause, reflect, and rediscover a harmonious connection with the natural world. It's a place where the healing power of nature, both therapeutic and educational, rejuvenates the human spirit, reminding us of our place within the larger tapestry of life. **High Country Highlights: Active Participation Observation** The Blue Ridge Parkway is the longest roadway planned as a single park unit in the United States. It contiguously protects significant mountain landscapes far beyond the shoulders of the road itself. Whether you're driving a short stretch or the entire length of the parkway, the winding roads and enchanting bridges and tunnels offer an artistic human aesthetic as you adventure through nature's handiwork. "The Parkway has over 85,000 acres of natural resources and a great range of recreational opportunities for visitors to explore and enjoy from hiking, bicycling and birdwatching to picnicking and exploring historic structures along the route," [reports the National Scenic Byway Foundation](https://nsbfoundation.com/nb/blue-ridge-parkway-nc/). "Visitors enjoy viewing the numerous waterfalls located on or near the Parkway. And if you’re lucky, you may spot a black bear in its native habitat, the purple blooms of the Catawba rhododendron lining the roadway and trails, or the varied hues of deciduous leaves at their peak color in the fall." As you embark on your journey through Western North Carolina along the Blue Ridge Parkway, several highlights stand out: * **Stunning Overlooks**: The parkway offers numerous overlooks, each providing panoramic views of the surrounding mountains cloaked in vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows. [Craggy Gardens](https://www.nps.gov/blri/planyourvisit/craggy-gardens.htm) and [Waterrock Knob](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g49313-d3385599-Reviews-Waterrock_Knob-Maggie_Valley_North_Carolina.html) are particularly renowned for their sweeping vistas. * **Linville Falls**: A short hike from the parkway takes you to a [spectacular waterfall](https://www.nps.gov/blri/planyourvisit/linville-falls-mp-316.htm) surrounded by trees adorned in seasonal hues. The combination of cascading water and vibrant foliage is a sight to behold. * **Grandfather Mountain**: This [iconic peak](https://grandfather.com/tickets/) offers a magnificent backdrop for fall foliage. The [Mile-High Swinging Bridge](https://www.ourstate.com/grandfather-mountain-bridge-history/), accessible via the parkway, provides a thrilling vantage point to witness the foliage transformation. * **Autumn Festivals**: Western North Carolina hosts several fall festivals celebrating the changing seasons. The [Woolly Worm Festival](http://www.woollyworm.com) in Banner Elk and the [Autumn at Oz](https://landofoznc.com) event near [Beech Mountain](https://www.beechmountainresort.com) are notable mentions. **All-Season Splendor** The Blue Ridge Parkway offers a truly unforgettable autumn experience. The parkway cooridor transforms into a symphony of colors, from the fiery red maples to the golden oaks and the burnt oranges of dogwoods. It's an experience that appeals to all the senses, as the crisp mountain air, the gentle rustling of leaves, and the scent of earthy woods create a sensory feast. Whether you're a photographer, hiker, or simply someone seeking the beauty of the changing seasons, this iconic route delivers the quintessential fall experience in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains. But the parkway also offers exciting, rewarding and memorable experiences throughout the seasons as well. Here are some highlights to keep an eye out for in spring, winter, and summer: **Spring:** 1. **Wildflowers**: Spring is the season of wildflower blooms. Look for vibrant displays of azaleas, rhododendrons, trilliums, and many other native flowers carpeting the forest floor. 2. **Migratory Birds**: Birdwatching enthusiasts will enjoy spotting migratory songbirds returning to the area in the spring. Keep an eye out for colorful warblers, vireos, and tanagers. 3. **Waterfalls**: Spring is an excellent time to witness the waterfalls along the parkway at their peak flow due to melting snow and spring rains. Locations like Crabtree Falls and Linville Falls are particularly impressive. 4. **Gardens and Blooms**: Nearby gardens, such as the Biltmore Estate Gardens in Asheville, come alive with spring blooms, including tulips, daffodils, and flowering trees. ![](https://cdn.elebase.io/f73a5e12-7a94-4da0-96b6-40fd97435fd2/1cb637de-6e4f-4454-bdae-1999b224e2a9-winterbrp21.jpeg)

Blue Ridge Parkway closed in Asheville, Western North Carolina ahead of winter storm https://t.co/r46j8xRu8k pic.twitter.com/4wgxLj1WAW
— Tricia S. Edwards (@tspedwards) January 8, 2021

**Winter:** 1. **Snowscapes**: Wintertime can transform the Blue Ridge Parkway into the kind of frozen wonderland you might suspect. Snow-blanketed landscapes, frost-powdered trees and icecylcle stalactites hanging from rock edges create a picturesque scenes of postcard sublimity. 2. **Winter Wildlife**: While some animals hibernate or migrate, winter is an ideal time for spotting certain wildlife, including white-tailed deer and wild turkeys. 3. **Cross-Country Skiing**: Winter enthusiasts can enjoy cross-country skiing on sections of the parkway, especially in higher elevations where snowfall is more substantial. 4. **Christmas Lights**: Nearby towns like Asheville often host holiday events, including festive light displays and Christmas markets, adding a touch of holiday cheer to your winter visit. ![The Blue Ridge Music Center features a state-of-the-art amphitheater on the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 213. The facility hosts a visitors center with a permanent exhibit, “The Roots of American Music” and a small indoor auditorium as well as a large outdoor amphitheater. The site is open May through October and features free music daily in the breezeway.](https://cdn.elebase.io/f73a5e12-7a94-4da0-96b6-40fd97435fd2/75cbe4ee-5d07-439c-a1c1-9e1ab7108113-blue-ridge-music.png) **Summer:** 1. **Rhododendron Blooms**: The parkway's rhododendron gardens burst into bloom during the early summer months, painting the landscape with shades of pink and purple. 2. **Festivals and Events**: Summer brings a host of events and festivals to the region, including music festivals, craft fairs, and outdoor concerts. 3. **Hiking and Camping**: Summer is a popular time for outdoor activities. Hiking trails, campgrounds, and picnic areas become bustling with visitors eager to enjoy the pleasant weather. 5. **Fireflies**: Experience the magical sight of synchronous fireflies in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which is accessible via the Blue Ridge Parkway. These fireflies create a stunning natural light show in late spring and early summer. 6. **Starry Nights**: Summer nights on the parkway are perfect for stargazing. The clear mountain air and low light pollution make it an ideal spot for astronomy enthusiasts. Each season on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Western North Carolina offers a unique and captivating experience. Whether you prefer the burst of color in spring, the tranquility of winter, or the active outdoor pursuits of summer, there's something for everyone to enjoy along this scenic route throughout the year. ![](https://cdn.elebase.io/f73a5e12-7a94-4da0-96b6-40fd97435fd2/03c40e73-c611-48bc-b7d5-b6e68a6f4982-blue-ridge-fence.jpeg)

Love the locust fencing along the Blue Ridge Parkway. pic.twitter.com/V4Qdbz3ks1
— Bill Leslie (@wralbleslie) September 12, 2022

**Still Standing: Withstanding the Tests of Time** Preserving old structures along the Blue Ridge Parkway, such as barns, cabins, and split rail fencing, is a vital aspect of the parkway's mission. These historic relics serve as poignant reminders of the rugged and self-sufficient way of life in the Appalachian Mountains before modern conveniences and infrastructure changed the landscape. **Barns**: The iconic Appalachian barns along the Blue Ridge Parkway are enduring symbols of the region's agricultural heritage. Built from locally sourced materials, these structures were essential for storing crops, sheltering livestock, and processing agricultural products. Preservation efforts aim to maintain their architectural integrity and showcase the craftsmanship of early mountain settlers. **Cabins**: Rustic cabins dotting the parkway tell stories of families who carved out a life in the remote mountain valleys. Many of these cabins were constructed by hand from logs and clay, reflecting the resourcefulness and resilience of early inhabitants. Preservation ensures these cabins stand as living history, allowing visitors to glimpse into the past and appreciate the challenges and triumphs of Appalachian life. **Split Rail Fencing**: Split rail fencing, crafted from split logs, has been a hallmark of Appalachian homesteads. These fences served multiple purposes, including livestock containment and property delineation. Along the Blue Ridge Parkway, they provide a glimpse into the craftsmanship and practicality of the past. Preservation efforts maintain these fences not only for their historical significance but also for their natural aesthetics that blend seamlessly with the landscape. ![Preservation of old structures along the Blue Ridge Parkway is not just about maintaining physical remnants of the past; it's about honoring the rich history and culture of the Appalachian region. These structures serve as evocative symbols of a bygone era when self-reliance and a deep connection to the land were essential for survival. They provide a window into the lives and livelihoods of the mountain people and are integral to the parkway's mission of celebrating the beauty and history of the region.](https://cdn.elebase.io/f73a5e12-7a94-4da0-96b6-40fd97435fd2/9696abc4-7b01-421e-8047-e64d7f51c2f4-brinegarcabin.jpeg)

Pictured above: Brinegar cabin, built in 1880.
Milepost 281 on the Blue Ridge Parkway pic.twitter.com/E1F2fRhf1Y
— Glenda (@BlueRidgePeace) May 20, 2020

**Living Landscapes Sustain Local Livelihoods** The Blue Ridge Parkway, while preserving the countryside and protecting the views at scenic overlooks, also serves as a significant economic driver for the historically economically depressed region of the country. The Parkway's economic impact is felt across the 29 counties and hundreds of communities it passes through. Parkway spending has reached or exceeded $1 billion each year since 2017, and the [Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation](https://www.brpfoundation.org) works to preserve and enhance visitor experiences, ensuring that people return to enjoy the park and its neighboring towns and businesses. Local businesses along the Blue Ridge Parkway [attribute much of their success to the parkway and its visitors](https://wlos.com/news/local/blue-ridge-parkway-a-billion-dollar-breath-of-fresh-air-for-local-economies-and-visitors-national-park-service-report-15711004-visitors-in-2022-spent-almost-13-billion). The Parkway was always envisioned as a driver for tourism in the local economies across the nearly 500-mile corridor, and it continues to bring tangible and positive benefits to the surrounding communities.

Blue Ridge Parkway- A National Scenic Byway