Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina
Winding its way through the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina and into Virginia, the Blue Ridge Parkway holds beautiful scenic overlooks and sweeping panoramic views. The parkway is named for the bluish haze that surrounds the mountains, which is a result of hydrocarbons given off by trees in the region.
The region is ecologically diverse – it’s home to 74 different mammal species, as well as a wide variety of reptiles and birds. In fact, more than 50 species of salamanders alone have been identified within the parkway! From hiking and horseback riding to enjoying nature and more, Blue Ridge offers visitors a wide array of outdoor activities.
In all, 26 tunnels dot the Blue Ridge Parkway. Almost all are located in North Carolina – Virginia’s section of the roadway holds just one tunnel – mainly because it was harder to plot around North Carolina’s mountains.
Learn more about Blue Ridge Parkway.
