Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
The Blue Ridge Parkway stretches for 469 miles through Virginia and North Carolina, linking Shenandoah National Park to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Known as 'America's Favorite Drive,' it features breathtaking vistas, abundant wildlife, and a variety of recreational opportunities. Traversing the spine of the Blue Ridge Mountains, it offers an unparalleled road trip experience through panoramic overlooks, diverse ecosystems, and historic and cultural sites. Throughout its length, visitors can explore numerous hiking trails, waterfalls, and cultural heritage sites, such as Mabry Mill and the Blue Ridge Music Center. The parkway embodies the ecological diversity of the Appalachian Mountains with forests, meadows, and unique flora and fauna. It was conceived during the Great Depression and construction began in 1935. Today, more than 14 million visitors enjoy the parkway annually, seeking tranquility, adventure, and a passage through a vital corridor of natural beauty.
