Due to expected heavy rain, high winds and the threat of historic flooding in some parts of the Blue Ridge region, the Blue Ridge Parkway is reminding visitors to use extreme caution when traveling this weekend. Many sections of the Parkway are closed through this weekend or until further notice, and many programs have been cancelled. Visitors are encouraged to regularly check the Parkway’s online Real Time Road Map and to consult this list of closures/cancellations when planning their Parkway trips.
Launch of the National Park Service Centennial is August 29 at the Blue Ridge Music Center
The National Park Service, established by Congress in 1916, is celebrating its 100th anniversary. The Blue Ridge Parkway, Parkway partner organizations, and the Blue Ridge Music Center will usher in the 2016 centennial on Saturday, August 29, 2015 with an afternoon showcase highlighting the work partner groups perform in support of the Parkway and an evening performance by the Steep Canyon Rangers.
Blue Ridge Parkway Releases 2015 Season Operating Hours
The Blue Ridge Parkway is pleased to announce its 2015 opening schedule for seasonal facilities and services. The current schedule for open facilities calls for most areas to be fully operational by May 23, 2015. From preparing campgrounds for visitors, to planning engaging family programs, Parkway staff, volunteers, and partners are getting ready for a strong visitor season.
Blue Ridge Parkway Seeks Input for Moses Cone Developed Area Management Plan
The Blue Ridge Parkway is seeking public input, through February 9, 2015, on an Environmental Assessment (EA) for the Moses H. Cone Developed Area Management Plan (DAMP). The purpose of this EA is to guide the future development and management of the Moses H. Cone Memorial Park. Those who wish to review and comment on this document may do so by visiting the NPS Planning, Environment, and Public Comment (PEPC) website, mailing comments to the Blue Ridge Parkway headquarters, or attending a public meeting to be held on January 15, 2015.
Blue Ridge Parkway Announces Two Winter Road Closures
Two sections of the Parkway will be closed in both lanes from November 3, 2014 until early May 2015: Milepost 241 to Milepost 243.5 (Ice Rock near Alligator Back), and Milepost 420.3 to Milepost 423.3 (near NC Highway 215). All visitors will be detoured due to the restoration of the structural integrity and historical appearance of the Parkway’s rock walls and the Devil’s Courthouse Tunnel.
