Blue Ridge Parkway, Appalachian Trail

The Blue Ridge Parkway, stretching 469mi (755km) through Virginia and North Carolina, is often called “America’s Favorite Drive”.  Winding through 29 counties, this scenic byway was created to connect Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carlina, while showcasing the Beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.  Construction began in 1935 and continued for 52 years, with the road fully opening in 1987.

The Parkway passes through 26 tunnels – 25 of which are in North Carolina due to its rugged terrain – and crosses 174 bridges and viaducts.  It is marked with mileposts, starting at Mile 0 at Rockfish Gap, where it connects directly to Skyline Drive, which continues through Shenandoah National Park.  The southern end, at Mile 469, intersects with U.S. 441 in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.  The highest point is Mile 431, Richland Balsam, at 6,410 ft (1,950 m).

With more than 270 overlooks offering spectacular views, the Parkway is designed for a slow, leisurely drive.  To maintain its tranquil atmosphere and protect the environment, commercial vehicles are prohibited without prior approval.  This makes it an ideal route for a peaceful, scenic journey.