Blue Ridge Parkway from Roanoke to Afton Self-Guided Driving Tour

Your vibrant journey through the Blue Ridge Parkway kicks off at the welcoming Blue Ridge Parkway in Roanoke, guiding you through a tapestry of picturesque overlooks and historical sites.

From the Roanoke River Overlook, you'll have a panoramic view of the Roanoke Basin, complemented by Native American musical echoes that tell tales of the land's first inhabitants. Stops like the Stewart Knob Overlook and Falling Creek Ironworks infuse the route with glimpses of natural grandeur and rich history.

You'll find numerous opportunities for hiking, with highlighted trails such as the Appalachian Trail beckoning the avid trekker. Learn about the delicate ecosystem with stops that shed light on plant poaching and the wetlands' vital role.

While the landscape plays a significant role in this journey, so does history. Delve into the intriguing narrative of the Roanoke Colony, explore the significance of the James River and Kanawha Canal, and visit the Otter Lake.

Each turn in the road introduces a new chapter, from the lush landscapes of Blue Ridge to the whispering woods at the Silence Ahead point. Towards the end, the drive leads you to the historic Afton Overlook, where the vast vistas of Shenandoah Valley spread out below.