Blue Ridge Parkway - The Parkway in Virginia (U.S. National Park Service)

Restored Kanawha Canal lock on the James River.

NPS photo

A restored lock from the Kanawha Canal on the James River.

The northern portion of the Parkway highlights the rolling agricultural scenery that is so much a part of Virginia's Blue Ridge. The main story here is how humans have interacted with the land in these mountains. Visitors are introduced to a variety of cultural sites and landscapes associated with communities in the southern Appalachians including evidence of human occupation from prehistoric to contemporary times. Early stories of tourism in the mountains and examples of arts, crafts, music, and social institutions of the region make a visit to the Virginia section of the Parkway one filled with lasting memories. Much of the road travels through US National Forest lands as well and, north of Roanoke, the drive is dominated by a ridge-top experience with magnificent views of the flora and fauna of Appalachian hardwood forests and sweeping vistas of the Great Valley of Virginia.

Humpback Rocks (Milepost 5.8) – Visitor Center, museum of 19th century log buildings, picnic area, access to Appalachian Trail and hike to the summit of Humpback Mountain.

James River and Otter Creek (Milepost 60-63) – Visitor Center, restored canal locks on the James River, campground, extensive hiking trails along Otter Creek, restaurant and gift shop.

Peaks of Otter (Milepost 86) – Lodge and restaurant, Visitor Center, 1930s restored Johnson Farm, campground, picnic area, access to Appalachian Trail, extensive trail system to the summit of the three main peaks.

Roanoke (Milepost 106-120) - Access to the Parkway’s largest neighboring city, hiking and horse trails, campground, and Virginia's Explore Park.

Rocky Knob and Mabry Mill (Milepost 167-176) – Many rural scenes and agricultural landscapes, working grist mill with adjacent blacksmith shop and cabin, three picnic areas, visitor center, campground, extensive hiking into Rockcastle Gorge.

Blue Ridge Music Center (Milepost 215) – Outdoor amphitheater, visitor center and museum. The Parkway's premier site for interpreting and featuring the musical heritage of the region.