Where do the Blue Ridge Mountains start and end?
The Blue Ridge Mountains start at the Georgia/North Carolina border and end at the
Virginia/Tennessee border. Some of the best places to visit along Virginia’s Blue Ridge Parkway While visiting the Blue Ridge Parkway, you can see many places, but these locations have been selected for their unique beauty and history. Whether your interest is in geology or architecture, there is something here that will appeal to you!
1) Shenandoah National Park
This park offers visitors a chance to see some of the best views from the mountains and beautiful waterfalls like Skyland Falls. The hike up Mount Rogers was named one of the top hikes by USA Today. There are also plenty of opportunities to get outside on horseback or mountain bike. You’ll find it all at this national park located just north of Waynesboro.
2) The Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Located inside North Carolina, this national park has over 6 million acres of land with over 2,000 miles of trails. It features spectacular waterfalls such as Fontana Dam, Clingmans Dome, Cades Cove, Smokemont Canyon, Rainbow Falls, etc. Hikers and bicyclists alike enjoy exploring the park’s backcountry, where they can camp out under the stars.
3) Dahlonega Gold Region
Suppose gold mining sounds interesting. Head about an hour south of Asheville to Dahlonega to check it out. Explore old buildings used for prospectors who found success during the California Gold Rush before moving into town. Take part in reenactments throughout the year. Last Chance Mining Camp hosts events several times each week between May and October.
4) Roanoke River Valley
Just west of the Blue Ridge Parkway lies the Roanoke River Valley. Travelers love coming here because of its natural beauty and historic sites. Head 30 minutes southwest of Lexington to experience the valley firsthand. See what life would’ve been like if Christopher Columbus had chosen not to explore America instead of going overseas. Check out the restored townsite of Saluda, which once featured around 500 residents.
5) Waterrock Knob & Lake James State Natural Area
One of my favorite things about living near Lynchburg is traveling down Route 220 toward the Southwestern corner of the state. I often stop off at Waterrock Knob and Lake James State Natural Area.
6) Monticello
When Thomas Jefferson visited his home today, he’d be amazed by how much progress we’ve made since 1776 when he first moved in. He lived in France, Italy, Germany, Switzerland, and finally settled in the United States. In 1802 he built himself a house called “Monticello,” now known as one of the most impressive homes in the country.
7) Harpers Ferry Center for Arts and History
While traveling through West Virginia, make sure to spend time in Harpers Ferry. Not only does it feature art galleries and museums, but it’s also famous for its role in American Civil War history. General Robert E. Lee marched his army right past this area during the war without firing a shot.
8 ) Lewis Mountain Nature Preserve
My family enjoys visiting places with historical significance, whether a museum, cemetery, battlefield, or even a lighthouse. Lewis Mountain Nature Preserve is worth checking out.
9) Blackwater Falls State Resort Park
Only 20 minutes away from Blacksville is Blackwater Falls State Resort. Here you can swim, fish, canoe, kayak, picnic, play tennis, ride horses, and go hiking. Please make plans to stay overnight so you can take advantage of their cabins!
10) Stonehenge Free-Standing Monolith
On the border of Tennessee and Georgia sits Stonehenge’s free-standing monolithic rock formation.
11) The Appalachian Trail
This trail runs from Maine to Georgia, including some parts of New York. There are portions of the course within walking distance of Blacksville.
12) Cherokee Indian Reservation
Another place I want to recommend is the Cherokee Indian Reservation. You’ll find lots of great restaurants onsite, especially in nearby Ellijay.
13) Fort Loudoun State Historic Site
A short drive outside of Waynesboro will bring travelers to the Fort Loudoun State Historic site. Enjoy beautiful views en route while driving through the mountains.
14) Skyland Ski Resort
About 45 minutes north of Knoxville is Skyland ski resort.
15) Mount Rogers National Recreation Area
Located near Roanoke, VA is Mount Rogers National Recreation Area. This national recreation area features several trails like the Humpback Rock Loop Trail, which leads hikers to stunning cliffs with breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys.
16) Sweeten Creek Botanical Garden & Arboretum
Just south of Boone, off of Interstate 40, is Sweeten Creek Botanical garden and conservatory. Visitors can walk among towering trees and lush gardens.
17) Natural Bridge Caverns State Park
Also near Boone is Natural Bridge Caverns state park. These caves were formed over millions of years and contain a great network of tunnels and caverns.
18) The Great Smoky Mountains National Park
One of my favorite parks in the Great Smoky Mountains National park because there are tons of things for kids to do. If you’re looking for fun activities when traveling with children, then this should be at the top of your list.
19) Clingmans Dome
Clingman’s dome is one of the highest points in the eastern United States. Unfortunately, much of the forest around its base has been cut down due to fire danger. Hopefully, someday soon, we may get to climb it ourselves.
20) Cades Cove
Cades cove is known for being the most significant community surrounded by a national park.
What is the most beautiful part of the Blue Ridge Parkway?
The name ‘Pisgah’ comes from the Hebrew word meaning ‘to overlook.’ Mount Pisgah is located along the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina. It was named after the biblical Mt. Nebo, where Moses viewed God’s Promised Land before dying. Today, visitors hike up the mountain to see the view overlooking the Shenandoah Valley. For those who enjoy nature photography, the blue ridge parkway offers many opportunities to capture images such as these.
What is the best time of year to visit the Blue Ridge Mountains?
The best time of year to go hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains is from May through September. During these months, the weather is usually sunny, and the temperatures are comfortable. However, during the winter months, the mountains may be covered in snow and ice.
Where should I stay when visiting the Blue Ridge Parkway?
The Blue Ridge Parkway has several hotels located along the parkway, from which you can choose. There are also plenty of motels and campgrounds available for those who want to camp out. If you are looking for a hotel, try the Mountain View Inn & Suites in Asheville, North Carolina. This hotel offers free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, and a restaurant.
Conclusion
Blue Ridge Parkway is a beautiful place located in the state of Oregon. It is a top-rated tourist destination in the United States. This place has a lot of natural beauty. There are many hiking trails here. You can also go for a horseback riding tour here. If you want to enjoy some great views, then you should visit this place. You will find many unique places here