Virtual Blue Ridge's Profile
Name: Blue Ridge Parkway Expert
Title: The Authority on Blue Ridge Parkway Questions
Visit Virtual Blue Ridge's Website
As the premiere online resource for the Blue Ridge Parkway, Virtual Blue Ridge has become the go-to website for all things Parkway and Blue Ridge area related.
Established in 2001, VBR has grown to a website with thousands of pages dedicated to assist the Parkway Traveler with their trip planning. VBR also has sections devoted to popular attractions along the Blue Ridge, and its helpful and friendly staff respond to your phone calls and questions about the Parkway.
Common Question:
On a recent trip to the Blue Ridge Mountains with friends I noticed at some attractions they were presenting a small plastic card and were allowed entrance without paying. My friend said that it was a Go Blue Ridge Card. What is this and where can I get one?
Answer:
The Go Blue Ridge Card is a convenient, wallet-sized card that includes admission to the Blue Ridge area’s most popular attractions. The Go Blue Ridge Card is the only all-inclusive ticket to the top attractions in the Blue Ridge Mountains. You do not need to pre-purchase tickets, deal with the hassle of tear-out coupons, or carry cash.
Simply present your Go Blue Ridge card at any participating attraction, restaurant, or shop. You are granted general admission at the attraction (no cash changes hands), or will receive a discount automatically.
Click here to learn more about the Go Blue Ridge Card, participating attractions and purchase information.
Common Question:
What is the speed limit on the Parkway and what do I do if I see or am involved in an accident?
Answer:
As a general rule the speed limit along the Parkway is 45 mph. In areas of heavy traffic such as Mabry Mill, Cone Manor or visitors centers and at major intersections the speed limit may drop to 35 mph. You should obey posted speed limit signs at all times.
The Parkway has many hairpin and descending radius curves. Traveling at faster than posted speeds might cause you to miss a curve and hit an animal, cyclist or pedestrian.
The National Park Service requires that you report all accidents that occur along the Parkway. If you are in or witness an accident you must report it to a ranger as soon as possible. If a ranger is not in sight, call 1-800-PARKWATCH. Remember, hitting an animal with your vehicle is as much an accident as two vehicles colliding.
Click here for more information on traffic and driving regulations along the Parkway.
Common Question:
I have heard about the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation, Who are they and what do they do?
Answer:
Founded in 1997 The Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation is a non-profit fundraising organization dedicated to the protection and preservation of the Blue Ridge Parkways natural beauty.
The foundation recieves no government funding and relies solely on private contributions, grants, and corporate support. The Foundation is not a membership organization, nor does it engage in political activity or advocacy.
The foundation has been involved in restoration and preservation projects at the Moses Cone Manor, Camp Catawba, Grave Yard Feilds, Rough Ridge trail and many others.
If you would like to learn more or make a contribution visit The Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation, Foundation Executive Director Dr. Houck Medfords blog, or visit The Blue Ridge Parkway Store where a portion of all proceeds go to support the foundation.
Common Question:
Is it legal to pull off the Parkway roadside, spread a blanket and enjoy a picnic lunch?
Answer:
In most places, picnicking along the road side is legal. This is a long standing Parkway tradition, but you must be pulled completely off the roadway. Avoid soggy areas and ditches after periods of rain.
North of Asheville NC, the Parkway passes through the city watershed and off-road parking is not allowed where indicated by signs.
Common Question:
We are planing a trip from New York to Florida in early December. We are curious to know what facilities, if any will be open during this time of year? We are an older couple and plan on staying in motels, maybe do a little hiking, check out a musuem or two and maybe do some shopping.
Answer:
Most Parkway facilities are closed in the winter, although the road itself is open as long as snow or ice do not create dangerous driving conditions. The park information line, (828) 298 0398, is the most up-to-date source for road closures by section and access to Parkway weather reports. Year round facilities include the Peaks of Otter Lodge north of Roanoke, VA, the North Carolina Minerals Museum near Spruce Pine, and in Asheville, NC the Folk Art Center and the Destination Center.
Many of the towns and communities located along the parkway offer shopping, meals, and lodging year round.
Fall and Winter Activities Along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
