Summer Fun for the Family on the Blue Ridge Parkway

The summer season is being ushered in this week! Asheville and the surrounding areas here in Western North Carolina welcome you and encourage you to spend some time in the great outdoors. The temperatures here in the summer rarely venture out of the 80's and the nights are cool and pleasant.

A trip to Western North Carolina is not complete without experiencing one of America's favorite scenic drives. The Blue Ridge Parkway meanders for 469 miles and allows for stunning views of majestic mountains and miles of scenic pastoral landscapes. Take some time out for the family to drive, relax, and explore the Parkway—then consider some of the additional family-oriented events happening at the Blue Ridge Parkway this week.

Family Night

This Thursday, June 21 from 7p.m. to 8:30p.m., meet up with the rangers at the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center (located at milepost 384) in Asheville for Family Night on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Spend some time with the family in a fun, informative, and beautiful environment and take the opportunity to learn about various survival strategies that Parkway animals implement. Take part in interactive predator-prey games that the whole family will enjoy. Admission and parking are free but registration is required.

Hike of the Week

The Blue Ridge Parkway Hike of the Week offers weekly ranger-guided hikes in various locations and trails free-of-charge. This week's hike occurs on Friday, June 22 at 10a.m. Parkway rangers lead hikers on a moderate 2-mile roundtrip hike on the Mountains-To-Sea Trail. It's a great opportunity to observe the wildflowers that are currently in bloom and to learn about various cacti in the area. Rangers suggest that hikers bring water and a snack, dress appropriately for the weather, and wear comfortable hiking shoes. Hikers should meet at the Craven Gap parking area located at milepost 377.4

Family Outdoor Adventure Day

Also at the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center, come out on Saturday, June 23 from 9a.m. to 3p.m. for Family Outdoor Adventure Day on the Blue Ridge Parkway. It's a chance for the family to learn about survival skills, talk with experts, as well as enjoy and explore the outdoors. There are various activities scheduled throughout the day, so be sure to view the full schedule of events and times. It's a jam-packed day of fun for everyone. Event partners are on-hand to provide additional highlights and equipment for various other family-friendly adventures in Western North Carolina. This event is free and food vendors will be on-hand. 

The Blue Ridge Parkway offers a variety of programs, activities, and special events throughout the summer. So no matter when you decide to visit, be sure to check the schedule of events prior to your stay in Western North Carolina so you can plan ahead.

Do you have a favorite spot along the Blue Ridge Parkway? If so, we'd love to hear about in our comment section. Happy Summer!