Near Cedar Crest Bed and Breakfast: Blue Ridge Parkway

Just a few miles from Cedar Crest bed and breakfast is one of America's most scenic drives. A drive down the Blue Ridge Parkway is meant to be slow paced and relaxing. A stop at almost any overlook or trail will reveal much of the natural and cultural history here. The Parkway meanders 469 miles between Shenandoah and Great Smoky Mountains National Parks, so explore the many communities along the way that make our region so special. From Cedar Crest, drive south on U.S. 25 for four miles to get on the Parkway. Enjoy the view, but watch the road! Overlooks and trails offer breaks during a drive, and there are ranger programs at most developed areas during the summer and autumn months. The Parkway provides wonderful opportunities for: Hiking - The Parkway offers 100 trails ranging from short "leg-stretcher" walks to the Appalachian Trail. Wildflowers & Fall Colors - The Parkway provides an excellent location for both wildflower walks in the springtime and brilliant leaf color in the autumn. May is probably the best month for wildflowers. Look for Rhododendron in mid June! Photography - The combination of historical and natural areas make the park an excellent destination for photographers. Historical and Cultural Demonstrations - Several developed areas offer hands-on demonstrations of mountain life and culture. Ranger Guided Walks and Evening Programs - During the summer season, most developed areas offer evening programs, or more traditional campfire programs, along with guided walks and special programs. Birdwatching - Because the Appalachian Mountains shape the flyway for most eastern migratory birds, the Parkway is an excellent place for both birdwatching and autumn migratory bird counts. Tips for the Parkway: 1. Go slowly and enjoy the scenery. The speed limit is 45 mph. 2. Stop at the overlooks to soak in the views. 3. Take a blanket and picnic. There are several picnic areas along the way, and many green areas along the drive to stop. 4. Take a jacket. With the elevation changes along the drive, the temperature may vary as much as 20 to 30 degrees. At the highest elevations, the hottest summer days only reach into the 70s. 5. Watch for hikers and bicyclists. 6. Gas up before you get on the parkway. There are no gas stations on the parkway. 7. Restrooms are only located at major stops such as picnic areas and visitor centers. 8. Along the Parkway, you will see numbered mileposts. The zero milepost marker is at the north end of the Parkway in Virginia. Numbers progress as you drive south. The entrance to the Parkway nearest Cedar Crest is U.S. 25 near Milepost 388. 9. Dogs and other pets must be on a leash or under physical restraint at all times while along the Parkway. 10. Parking is permitted on road shoulders (unless noted). Be sure to have all four wheels are off the pavement. 11. For emergencies along the Parkway, call 1-800-ParkWatch. 12. Road closures and conditions, along with weather reports, are available by calling the Parkway information line at (828) 298-0398. Many sections of the Parkway close in winter months because of snow and ice. After a day of driving on the Blue Ridge Parkway, return to Cedar Crest Inn bed and breakfast in Asheville to relax and enjoy a good night's sleep. For more, go to the Blue Ridge Parkway Website.