I love driving the Blue Ridge Parkway because it makes you slow down and
appreciate nature's beauty. The speed limit is only 45 mph (and
sometimes lower), so obey it for the best experience. For safety
reasons, pull over to enjoy the views.
I remember passing through a summer squall one afternoon and being
greeted by a rainbow when the rain stopped. From the valley below, I'm
sure it looked like a rainbow arching over the mountaintop. Up high,
where I was, the colors were so close I knew I'd find the pot of gold.
You're in for a completely different look come fall, one worth studying
as the trees turn. And if you want to see the wintry beauty of
snow-covered mountains, be sure to call the info line first to check for
any road closings.
To see wonderful arts and crafts in North Carolina, stop by the Southern
Highland Craft Guild Folk Art Center at mile marker 382 near Asheville
or Moses H. Cone Memorial Park at mile marker 294 near Blowing Rock. In
Virginia, take home some wine from Châeau Morrisette, just off the
parkway between mile markers 171 and 172 in Floyd. --Cassandra M. Vanhooser
