Blue Ridge Parkway

One of America’s great “natural” treasures. The Parkway is a man-made construction, built to view the natural wonders of the Blue Ridge Mountains, which have inspired generations of Native Americans, Spanish Conquistadors, frontiersmen, settlers and today’s tourists from all countries.

Over 255 of the 469 mile length of the Parkway runs through North Carolina as it follows the southern Appalachian range from Shenanandoah National Park in Virginia to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in western North Carolina. Two of its highest points are reached on either side of Asheville: At Mt. Pisgah (5,721 ft.) to the west and Mt. Mitchell (6,684 ft) to the east. The Parkway is the best free amusement ride in America!

There are six entrances accessible from the greater Asheville area. Over 11 million visitors a year pass through the Asheville area on the Blue Ridge. A portion of it is used by locals as a commuter highway which runs around the SE end of Asheville. Avid walkers, runners and cyclists are seen using it everyday of the year as part of their fitness regime. It is an important part in the life of this active community.

Visit www.blueridgeparkway.org for more information.