Experience the natural beauty of the mountains and valleys by taking a drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

     The Blue Ridge Parkway runs along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains for 470 miles in Virginia and North Carolina, and is only a 15-minute drive from Lexington. It is accessible to the Rockbridge area from both Route 56 east from Steeles Tavern and Route 60 east from Buena Vista. The Parkway can also be reached by taking Route 501 east from Buena Vista over the mountain at the James River gorge to the parkway at Otter Creek.

     Besides beautiful views of the southern Appalachian Mountains and valleys, the Parkway provides a look at the natural and cultural history of the region. You can spend a few hours or several days traveling the Blue Ridge Parkway. If you enjoy natural beauty and scenic views, spend some time exploring the Parkway, particularly in the late spring when the rhododendron and mountain laurel are in bloom, and during the often spectacular fall leaf season.

     For more information, go to  www.blueridgeparkway.org