When you’re looking for an excellent way to travel and take the family for a short break during the fall months, you need to take a look at what the Blue Ridge Parkway has to offer. This road is part of the National Park System in North Carolina and Virginia with more than 400 miles of road that will provide you with views you won’t see anywhere else. Here are several of the reasons you should take a drive on this road during the fall months:
The connection of Parks – Two of the most admired and best-known national parks in the country is the Shenandoah National Park in Virginia and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. This road connects the two together and provides you with miles and miles of gorgeous views to admire and enjoy.
Color at Different Times – Because of the variety of elevation changes along the Parkway you’ll have different lighting situations and a look at the fall foliage that will last longer because some leaves will change earlier than others. If you drive this road anytime between September and November, you’re likely to see what you want along the way.
Low Speeds – Because this road isn’t part of the interstate system the speed limit never rises above 45 mph making it easier for you to take your time and check out the look and the views offered along the way. This means you’ll get to admire the winding roads and the views around you more than you would at any other time.
Small Town Treasures – Because many of the towns along the way are small and remote they are rich in local culture and creations that you can take advantage of by purchasing some excellent items to bring home with you. Stop in and check out what some of the different towns and stores have for you to admire and enjoy.
Roadside Stops – There are wide shoulders and plenty of room along the Blue Ridge Parkway to make it possible for you to stop and take in the views at any point during your drive. This means you can take your time, stop for some photos or even see a hiking trail that you want to explore and stretch your legs for a few minutes.
Hiking Options – There are a variety of hiking options for you to choose with over 100 miles of trails that you’re going to want to enjoy while traveling on this road. By checking out some of the hiking trails you’re going to have the ability to see locations including the Graveyard Fields Loop Trail which offers you streams to take in and enjoy.
No Bad Views – As you drive on this impressive and amazing road you’re going to see panoramic views along the way to give you the look you want and the views you’ll be amazed by. Check out the Linn Cove Viaduct and see one of the most iconic spots along the way to have the views you’ll be amazed by from atop the roadways.
Sunsets are Gorgeous – You’ve got to pull over when the sunsets take place so that you can see and admire the reds, oranges, and yellows that light up the mountains and valleys for the miles that you can see. You’re going to be amazed by the colors and the beauty of the view around you when you take in the pictures of what’s offered by nature.
Apples are in Season – During the fall the apples are in season and there are orchards you can stop at and enjoy along the way to take in some of the quality fruit that’s locally grown. Make Altapass Orchard the place to stop for one of your breaks and enjoy picking a few apples that you’ll love snacking on along the road.
Lots of Falls – You’ll be awed by the falls that you can stop and see which are all wonders of Nature. Linville Falls, Glassmine Falls and Crabtree Falls are all ones that you should certainly take in and enjoy when you’re traveling along this route toward whatever destination you want to get to after the distance and the picturesque travels you’ve chosen.
Historic Sights – This road runs through mountain passes that were home to many settlers and their homes and businesses still stand in some locations. There are many buildings you can visit and take a look at the early days of construction including Mabry Mill which is a fantastic timber mill that you’ll love and want to take pictures of.
Elevated Views– As the Blue Ridge Parkway rolls up from elevations that take you from 600 to 6,000 feet above sea level, you’ll see views you can’t get anywhere else. Don’t be afraid to stop and take in the look around you when you’re ready to have a fantastic trip and see the fall colors that can simply take your breath away.
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