Blue Ridge Parkway/Southwest Virginia
Follow the footsteps of pioneers in an iconic mountain range
If you’re looking for a road trip that combines scenic beauty with living history, you want to travel the Blue Ridge Parkway through southwest Virginia. Follow the paths forged by America’s forefathers and surround yourself with some of the nation’s most spectacular natural wonders in this remarkable and rewarding vacation destination.
NPS
See the Sights Like Pioneers
Make memories of your Blue Ridge trip last forever by snapping photographs of the region’s most popular stop for pictures, Mabry Mill. For pioneers, the gristmill and sawmill served the Meadows of Dan area as a community center in addition to providing much-needed staples of flour and lumber. Today, the mill welcomes musicians to perform on Sunday afternoons for summertime visitors, and park service volunteers demonstrate regional crafts during peak seasons
Where the Bluegrass Grows
Feel like tapping your foot? The Blue Ridge Music Center in Galax is a force for the preservation and celebration of Virginia’s historical sounds. The Blue Ridge is famous for its bluegrass music and has given rise to more of the genre’s musicians than virtually anywhere else. The music center welcomes local and world-renowned performers to its auditorium from June to October, and visitors can learn more about the roots music and its influences while taking a tour of the visitor center.
For a great musical experience, visit during the Blue Ridge Folklife Festival in Ferrum on the fourth Saturday of October and presents performances on three stages for folk and rockabilly music, sacred music and string bands.
Boating is popular at Smith Mountain State Park at Vinton. The park’s boat launch is open to jet skis and ski boats.
For More Information
Blue Ridge Parkway Association
828-670-1924
www.blueridgeparkway.org
Virginia Tourism Corporation
800-847-4882
www.virginia.org