Seventy five years ago, construction of the Blue Ridge Parkway began as a project to put people back to work during the Depression. Today the 469-mile winding roadway in Virginia and North Carolina has evolved into one of the United States' most-visited sites, drawing about 17 million people annually and bringing about $2 billion to surrounding areas. This year the National Park Service will commemorate the parkway's
75th anniversary with a variety of events, including a weekend festival in September. A few facts about the BRP:
- The Blue Ridge Parkway is the most visited unit of the 391 units of the National Park Service.
- The highest point on the Blue Ridge Parkway is 6,053 feet, more than a mile above sea level. It is found at mile marker 431 in North Carolina.
- There are 382 scenic overlooks with available parking areas
- There are 26 tunnels on the Blue Ridge Parkway, and they all have slightly difference clearances, generally between 18 feet and 21.5 feet.
What facts, recommendations or memories can you share about the Blue Ridge Parkway?
