Travel the Blue Ridge Parkway for Spectacular Fall Views
September 24 2015 - trifecta
The Blue Ridge Parkway isn’t just a road. It’s 469 miles of music, nature, Cherokee traditions, and agriculture. The autumn months are considered the best time to drive the parkway, thanks to breathtaking fall foliage surrounding both sides of the road.
North Carolina Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Centers
Start at one of the Parkway Visitor Centers or include a stop on your journey. You can stretch your legs after driving a while, and explore. North Carolina has several visitor center stops along the parkway, including:
- Milepost 217.5 - Cumberland Knob
- Milepost 258.6 - Northwest Trading Post
- Milepost 294.1 - Moses H. Cone
- Milepost 304.4 - Linn Cove Viaduct
- Milepost 316.4 - Linville Falls
- Milepost 331 - Museum of NC Minerals
- Milepost 364.6 - Craggy Gardens
- Milepost 382- Folk Art Center
- Milepost 384 - The Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center
- Milepost 451.2 - Waterrock Knob
- Milepost 462.9 - Oconaluftee
- If you’re looking for a longer ride, there are multiple visitor centers in Virginia as well.
Things to Do Along the Parkway
If you grow tired of viewing the beautiful scenery, you can stop and enjoy one of the many attractions along the parkway. From theaters to hiking, dining, shopping, and family fun activities there is really something for everyone on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Pack a tent and stay awhile at one of the campsites. Visit one of the hiking trails in North Carolina and experience the beautiful wilderness up close. Take home some of the harvest from one of the many orchards, or visit a winery to stock up on your favorites. You’ll want to travel the Blue Ridge Parkway more than once to get the full experience.