The trees are changing and the days are getting shorter. Weekends are getting busier and busier as we continue on to the end of the year festivities like Thanksgiving and Christmas. Consequently it is the perfect time to go for a little road trip up the Blue Ridge Parkway. The Parkway is conveniently split in two by the James River so one could make plans for each section based on what they offer.

North

Right across the James River your travels bring you to Otter Lake Waterfalls, a beautiful man-made lake and waterfall that offers a few trails. From there you would take the parkway uphill climbing thousands of feet to be greeted by stunning vistas around every bend. After some time you will come across a larger turnoff for a trail called “Spy Rock” and this trail is an absolute must. Photos are included below but they do not give any justice for how amazing this hike really is. Conveniently, once you complete Spy Rock, you can drive on down to Crabtree Falls for even more hiking and road biking opportunities along the Parkway.

South

While the southern end is significantly shorter, I myself have completed it within a day driving from Roanoke to Lynchburg, it is no walk in the park. Twisting and turning up from the valley that Roanoke calls home you will be greeted by lush, blooming forests and steep rock cliffs. While driving northbound you will frequently see wide expanses of land below on your western side called The Great Valley, a spectacular stretch of land spanning between the Blue Ridge Parkway and George Washington National Forest’s ridge lines. 

Thanks to UMA volunteer, Alex Kelsey, for contributing to our blog!