Blue Ridge Parkway

Black bears are among the many mammals found across the Blue Ridge Parkway.
A Blue Ridge Parkway experience is unlike any other: a slow-paced and relaxing drive revealing stunning long-range vistas and close-up views of the rugged mountains and pastoral landscapes of the Appalachian Highlands. The Parkway meanders for 469 miles, protecting a diversity of plants and animals, and providing opportunities for enjoying all that makes this region of the country so special.
Map showing location of park.
Fatality near Milepost 418 on the Blue Ridge Parkway
On Sunday, July 13, 2025, at approximately 3:52 p.m., Blue Ridge Parkway dispatchers received a report of a park visitor in medical distress within a mile of the Graveyard Fields Overlook Trailhead.
Restaurant and retail building at historic Mabry Mill site on the Blue Ridge Parkway, milepost 176.
Blue Ridge Parkway Announces Concession Opportunity at Mabry Mill Restaurant
The National Park Service (NPS) is accepting proposals for a concession contract on the Blue Ridge Parkway at Mabry Mill (milepost 176). A business opportunity to provide Food & Beverage and Retail services in the restaurant and gift shop adjacent to the historic mill is outlined in a newly released prospectus document. Services under the new contract are expected to begin January 1, 2026, and will be for a 10-year term.
Fatality near milepost 7 on the Blue Ridge Parkway
On Saturday, June 21, 2025, at approximately 11:50 a.m., Blue Ridge Parkway dispatchers received a report of an accident involving a bicyclist and car near milepost 7.
Motorcycle Fatality near Milepost 126 on the Blue Ridge Parkway
On Friday, June 20, 2025, at approximately 8:30 p.m., National Park Service (NPS) dispatchers received a report of a motor vehicle accident near milepost 126 on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Fatality near Milepost 162 on the Blue Ridge Parkway
WOOLWINE, VA - On June 1, 2025, at approximately 11:59 a.m., near Milepost 162, a motorcycle traveling north on the Blue Ridge Parkway collided with a deer crossing the rider’s lane of traffic. The operator, Edward Zigata, 60 years old, of Shallotte, North Carolina, was ejected and sustained serious injuries. 
A long pine tree stands in front of distant mountain ridges beneath an orange sunset
Photo by Harold Blackwood Photo
Mountain vista and clouds on the Blue Ridge Parkway
Photo by David Smart
Storm clouds breaking over the mountains at sunset, with fog hugging the valleys
Photo by Jim Ruff Photo
A roadway on piers follows the curve of a mountainside, running toward distant mountains.
Photo by Harold Blackwood Photo
Black Bear sitting on large rocks at the edge of a forest
Photo by Harold Blackwood Photo
Summer colors at Mabry Mill
Photo by NPS Photo
water cascading into Linville Falls plunge basin
Photo by NPS Photo