For so many people, summer means trips to explore the Blue Ridge Parkway. Kids are out of school, the mountain air is cool and refreshing, and a thrilling range of activities await. Here are just a few updates for any trip this year:
- In 2016, overnight camping stays on the Blue Ridge Parkway increased 25 percent over the previous year, so be sure to reserve or arrive at your favorite spot early. Thanks to the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation, a new shower facility is under construction at Price Park Campground, milepost 297. It will be only the second campground on the Parkway to feature showers. Campsite fees have increased from $16 per night to $20 per night. A new rule requires that firewood brought for use at campsites must be heat-treated to reduce the introduction of pests that harm forests
- Hikers can once again enjoy the Rock Castle Gorge Trail, milepost 169, which was heavily damaged during a rainstorm in the fall of 2015 and reopened last September. The moderate to strenuous 10.8-mile loop features opportunities for backcountry camping, fly-fishing, and waterfall and wildlife viewing.
- The Blue Ridge Music Center, milepost 213, offers a summer of Saturday concerts that feature The Quebe Sisters, Steep Canyon Rangers, Mipso, Phil Wiggins & the Chesapeake Sheiks, The Harris Brothers, New Ballards Branch Bogtrotters, April Verche Band, Amythst Kiah, The Snyder Family Band, and many more. For the complete schedule, visit blueridgemusiccenter.org.
- Be sure to stop by Eastern National’s new traveler info station and gift shop at the Bluffs at Doughton Park, milepost 241. The venture is a first step in the longe-range plan to reopen the stone buildings, formerly home to a camp store and Bluffs Restaurant, which closed in 2010. Restrooms will also be open. There is still work to be done to revitalize this popular stop, and you can help.
- The recent rehab work is complete at the amphitheater at Mount Pisgah Campground, milepost 408. The newly paved outdoor education space is handicap accessible and features new bench seating and electricity. Be sure to ask at the campground gate about scheduled ranger-led programs.
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