The Blue Ridge Parkway has officially reopened from Milepost 0 to 198 in Virginia, which includes the portion in the Roanoke Region in Virginia’s Blue Ridge. Visitors to the region will be able to access iconic locations such as the Peaks of Otter (Milepost 86), Roanoke County’s Explore Park (Milepost 115), Rocky Knob (Milepost 161), and Mabry Mill (Milepost 176), as well as numerous scenic overlooks and vistas.
“We are extremely thankful that much of the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia has reopened to the public following Hurricane Helene,” said Landon Howard, president of Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge. “Virginia’s Blue Ridge region (the Cities of Roanoke & Salem and the Counties of Botetourt, Franklin and Roanoke) was fortunate to have sustained minimal damage during the storm and our hearts go out to our neighbors who are still cleaning up from Helene.”
Often known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” the Blue Ridge Parkway showcases the natural beauty of the region, especially during this time of year when fall foliage is nearing its peak (anticipated peak: end of October). Roanoke, the largest city on Virginia’s Blue Ridge Parkway, is an ideal home base for those looking to explore the area. Local businesses, including accommodations, restaurants and attractions, are open and welcoming visitors. Popular festivals and events, such as Roanoke Go Outside Festival (Oct. 18 – 20) and the Blue Ridge Folklife Festival (Oct. 26) will be taking place. The metro mountain adventure of Virginia’s Blue Ridge offers outdoor and city-life experiences alike, including arts and culture, vibrant culinary and craft beverage offerings, biking, paddling, hiking and more.
The Blue Ridge Parkway in N.C. remains closed as crews continue emergency stabilization and damage assessments following Hurricane Helene. Updates will be posted on the Blue Ridge Parkway website at www.nps.gov/blri and on the park’s social media platforms at @BlueRidgeNPS.
