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That's right, construction began Sept. 11, 1935 near Cumberland Knob!! The Blue Ridge Parkway was the brainchild of President Roosevelt,
who envisioned a national highway that followed along the mountain tops.
More than 250 of the entire 469 mile parkway winds through North
Carolina's mountains. Loaded with breathtaking views at nearly every turn, the
parkway is a popular destination or journey. Relax anywhere along the
route and enjoy your tax dollars at work. The National Park System provides
excellent facilities for camping, picnicking, hiking, and cruising. Nearby
communities also provide the modern conveniences that some folks just won't compromise.
15 million annual visitors can't be wrong!!
For more info, visit www.nps.gov.
Updates on current Parkway closures according to the National Park Service
on 12/29/09
North Carolina
For weather-related closures which can change
rapidly this time of year, call the park information line at (828) 298 0398.
Milepost 393.6 - 405.5 - Asheville Area
Due to heavy rains, engineers determined that a high risk of slides existed
in the area, necessitating this emergency closure. The closure will be in place
until further notice.
For southbound traffic from the Asheville area, take NC Route 191, NC
Route 280, and US Route 276 to the Parkway. For northbound traffic near the Mt.
Pisgah area, take US Route 276, NC Route 280, and NC Route 191 to the Parkway.
Milepost 0 - 356
Replacement of guardrails between the northern end of the Parkway and the
Asheville area will begin in early December 2009 and continue throughout 2010.
One-lane traffic and short delays are possible in areas where work is taking
place.
Cruising
| Nothing much to do where you live? Can't decide where to go and what to do?
Hit the Blue Ridge Parkway for an afternoon drive. Whether tis' the season for
enjoying the fall foliage, spring's awakening, or summer splendor, this is the
place to be seen or not to be seen. Elevations vary along the parkway between
three and six thousand feet quite regularly! Therefore, always prepare for any
of mother nature's extremes at any time. Reports of snow atop Mt. Mitchell in
June have occurred. The Blue Ridge Parkway provides unlimited detours for the
curious explorer. We recommend the Nike approach. Many
diversions are a plenty including but not limited to the following waterfalls:
Looking Glass Falls, Yellowstone Falls,
Crabtree Falls, or
Linville Falls, along the parkway. |
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Hiking
If you enjoy taking a hike, than the parkway can be a fantastic destination,
especially as the fall season is upon us. There are dozens of trails along the
parkway to hike, but just beware that many times the length of the trail you are
about to venture upon is listed as one way. Have you ever hiked a 1.5 mile trail
only to be discouraged by the dreaded return hike. Please don't misunderstand
us, there's little else we'd rather do, however, one can get tired, and that
makes for a challenging return home if you are on a daytrip. (Which is generally
the way we explore the parkway ourselves) If you really enjoy hiking, you can't
beat Grandfather Mtn., especially in the fall. Invest in a season pass to take
full advantage of the entire mountain all year long. McRae's peak, the attic
window, the mile high swinging bridge, or the nature reserve all offer something
for everyone. Certainly a year's worth of family recreation and entertainment
that can't be accomplished in a only one day! If you arrive their via the
parkway, chances are you'll travel over the Linn Cove viaduct, which upon its
completion, linked the northern and southern parts of the parkway.
Campgrounds:
Late September @ Price Lake
- Doughton Park----MP 239.0
- Julian Price-----MP 297.0
- Linville Falls---MP 316.3
- Crabtree Meadows-MP 339.5
- Mt. Pisgah-------MP 408.6
*All campgrounds on first come first serve basis and have at least (1)
wheelchair usable site
*Fee is $10/ night plus $2 each for more than (2) adults (Although it's been
a couple years so I don't know if this has been adjusted for inflation!!)
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