Frequently Asked Questions

We spend lots of time with visitors, either face-to-face, at campfire programs, on the telephone, or by email. Click here for answers to some of the questions that we hear the most often. If your question and answer aren't included, please feel free to contact us through the email link near the bottom of this page. 

The 2012 Parkway Milepost is available here and at visitor centers. Regular information and updates are posted on Twitter at @blue_rdge_pkwy.

The Parkway in Winter

Winter can creep up on us here in the Blue Ridge - sudden and unexpected - with diving temperatures and driving snow. But when the pavement is clear, there are distinct advantages to being in our mountains this time of year. The winter views are spectacular, with clarity, detail, and focus across the multiple ranges of mountains. Closeup views are just as great because winter reveals details on the landscape that we may miss amid the richness of the foliage.

Food and Lodging

Lodges and restaurants can be found along the Parkway and most are open from late April through the fall color season. The Peaks of Otter Lodge & Restaurant at Milepost 86 north of Roanoke, VA is open year-round. The FOOD & LODGING link at the top of this page will give you all of the details. We also encourage you to visit the adjacent Parkway communities to experience regional food and hospitality at its finest.

Parks As Classrooms

The Blue Ridge Parkway staff offers programs for students in their classrooms through the fall and winter. The rangers conducting these programs have years of experience with children of a variety of ages. They know the state curriculum and will work with the teacher in our "Parks As Classrooms" program. The goal is to bring students in touch with the natural world and the cultural heritage of our region in a way that is real and meaningful, working in conjunction with the state school curriculum. Click here to find out more or to schedule a visit.