Running along the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains is the road they call, "America's Favorite Drive!" It is the Blue Ridge Parkway! Whether you are visiting Smith Mountain Lake or a resident, this road is something to be experienced! You can catch a ride onto the Parkway at Roanoke, via the visitor's center, or even at the Peaks of Otter Visitor Center. This is one drive you won't regret!
In summer, the fields are full of beautiful Virginia wildflowers, in the fall; the trees will bring out their finest colors to dance on the crisp air of autumn! The Blue Ridge Parkway was designed to be a recreation road, something to be driven just for the pleasure of it and it shows! There are several visitor centers along the way. Kids really enjoy the Parkway and they can even become a Junior Ranger! You can get their folders either online or at any of the visitor centers.
There are four lodges along the Parkway; one of the most breathtaking is Peaks of Otter Lodge! You can enjoy all the gorgeous scenery of the mountains. Fiery fall foliage, deer and an occasional bear are just a few of the things you may see. The lodge is located in Bedford, VA. You have your choice of two restaurants; The Lake View Restaurant and the Otter Creek. The Lake View is located at the Lodge itself and is open all year around. Otter Creek is open seasonally, May 1 through October 31.
As you leave the Smith Mountain Lake area of the Blue Ridge Parkway, just past the Peaks of Otter Visitor Center, you will hit the highest elevation of the road; 3950 ft!! Because the weather can vary so much in these high altitudes, make sure and check the weather for several communities along the road so you have an idea of what to expect. It is always a good idea to carry jackets and some emergency supplies in the trunk of your car. You can find more Safety Tips on the BRP website!
If you get a chance to enjoy the Parkway, be sure and stop at Smith Mountain Lake! Come for a visit, and if and if you like it then move here! Buying Lakefront property does not have to be full of twists and turns and blind corners! Call Vicki Millehan, your local real estate expert!
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