A Family Vacation Guide To The Appalachian Mountains

The Blue Ridge Parkway in the Majestic Applachian Mountains  is as a scenic byway with tons of majestic destinations, and a section of Appalachian mountain history.  Close to 500 miles long it wines through Blue Ridge mountains into North Carolina and Virginia. Encompassing some of the oldest early European settlements. 






At  Milepost 238.5 is the Brinegar Cabin that was settled by Martin Brinegar in 1885 and used until the land was purchased for the Blue Ridge Parkway in 1935.   The cabin houses an old loom, over a century old,  that is still used in craft demonstrations in the summer months.

All along the Blue Ridge Parkway there are overlooks, visitor center exhibits, restored historic structures, and areas alerting you to points of particular interest.  For a complete listing of the Parkway's historic attractions, contact the areas you want visit.  At every Parkway entrance a  sign indicates 'north' or 'south'.   North, toward Virgina and South leads to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.



Dazzling scenery along with recreational opportunities make the Blue Ridge Parkway one of the most popular spot of the National Park System.   Late afternoon sun through the forest is truly unforgettable!




As it winds its  469 miles through mountain meadows and endless vistas split-rail fencing, old farmsteads and historic buildings all add to the unique  views of the mountains both near and far.

The Blue Ridge Parkway has more than 6,000 acres of recreational areas. These parks within the Blue Ridge Parkway have visitor centers, camp grounds, picnic areas, trails and, many have concessionaire operated lodges, restaurants, and other facilities.

Building the Parkway through mountainous terrain was hard labor. Authorized in the 1930s as a Depression-era public works project, it was the nation's first, and by far the longest, rural parkway, starting in the Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to The Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina.

The speed limit is mostly 45 miles per hour and a little less in other places. The Parkway was designed for a nice leisurely driving . Take your time and discover the grandeur of this majestic place.




You don't have to be at an overlook to stop and enjoy the scenery.  Unless otherwise posted, parking is permitted along road shoulders.  Choose a place where you can pull your car completely off the road so as not to endanger yourself or others. Be alert for wildlife.  Deer and other animals may dart in front of your vehicle.




Vigilance is needed when driving in fog and/or rain.  Slow down and turn on your headlights but do not blind the other drivers.  A little caution will help assure that inclement weather only dampens picnics and temporarily impairs the scenic views.

Motorcyclists should especially be alert.  Approved helmets are required for operators and passengers.  In North Carolina, the headlight must be on anytime a motorcycle is in motion.

If you are in a accident, do try to prevent others from becoming involved by using reflective warning devices or flares.  If you are using flairs please be careful of sparks and fires.   If possible, osition someone beside the road to flag oncoming vehicles.  Please notify a Park Ranger at a nearby visitor center or camp ground or call (800) 727-5928.
 
I hope you do visit the Blue Ridge Parkway and please respect the wildlife.  If your family loves  nature  the Blue Ridge Parkway is for you!