The Blue Ridge Parkway Offers Scenic Beauty In Bedford County

Known as “America’s favorite drive,” the Blue Ridge Parkway was recently recognized by Yahoo Travel as one of America’s Top 10 Road Trips. You can hop onto the parkway at Roanoke or Peaks of Otter Visitor Centers. The Blue Ridge Parkway is a great drive in Bedford County. It will take your breath away.




Along the parkway, you can find several lodges. The Peaks of Otter Lodge is the one closest to Smith Mountain Lake. You can see some wonderful mountain vistas from here. There are great photo opportunities to be had, as wildlife is often seen near the lodge! Located in Bedford, VA, the lodge offers two restaurants, Lake View Restaurant and Otter Creek Restaurant & Gift Shop. The Lake View is open year 'round; Otter Creek just opened for the 2010 season.



As we head into summer, the fields lining the parkway are full of beautiful Virginia wildflowers. Be sure to come back in the fall, when the trees will bring out their brightest colors for travelers along the road. Drivers will find several visitor centers along the way.



Just past the Peaks of Otter Visitor Center, you will hit the road’s highest elevation at 3950 ft!! The weather can vary a lot at high altitudes; be sure to check the forecast 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!



As you drive the Parkway, don’t forget to stop at Smith Mountain Lake! Come for a visit; if you like it then move here! If you want to buy a vacation home of your own, call Vicki Millehan, your local real estate expert! She can help you navigate the road to home ownership in Smith Mountain Lake!