Date: September 23, 2008
The Blue Ridge Parkway Destination Center will host “Enjoy the View, Watch the Road” Day on Saturday, September 27, 2008 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, Milepost 384. Law Enforcement Rangers will be on hand from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. to meet with visitors, answer questions and share free souvenir reminders about traffic safety on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Non-profit partner Eastern National has developed a collection of products featuring the park’s messages and the popular custom “MotoMan” graphic. Key chains, apparel, road signs replicas and other collectibles will be available at the Destination Center store and in all Blue Ridge Parkway visitor centers. Visitors will be treated to a motorcycle tour of the entire Parkway – at no cost and in ideal weather conditions – by virtue of the award-winning film Blue Ridge Parkway: America’s Favorite Journey that runs on the half hour between 9:30 a.m. and 4 p.m! Shown in high-definition with surround sound, the film provides an exhilarating trip down the Parkway.
The “Enjoy the View, Watch the Road” event seeks to raise the awareness level of park visitors as they drive the scenic roadway by reminding them to obey the posted speed limits, wear seatbelts, observe a safe following distance, and keep a watchful eye out for wildlife, hikers, cyclists, and others enjoying the Parkway.
As cooler weather will begin to bring fall colors, Parkway drivers should be prepared for increased traffic as well as longer and slower drive times. Motorists are encouraged to practice Parkway etiquette by giving extra space to cyclists and by using the park’s many scenic overlooks to allow other vehicles to safely pass. Drivers are also urged to show extra patience for slower RV and bicycle traffic and extra caution for the park’s many species of wildlife which are often seen along the roadway.
The Blue Ridge Parkway was designed in the 1930’s as a scenic motor road connecting the Shenandoah and Great Smoky Mountains national parks. The road, which extends for approximately 470 miles, is the most visited unit in the National Park Service and contains numerous overlooks, campgrounds, visitor centers, exhibits, lakes, and hiking trails which provide the visitor an opportunity to explore and learn about the diverse areas surrounding the park.
