Drive: Blue Ridge Parkway -- Virginia and North Carolina

Blue Ridge Parkway

Soaring to the crests of the ancient Appalachians, America's longest scenic drive entices travelers with views of misty mountains and verdant valleys that have scarcely changed since the days of Daniel Boone.

from The Most Scenic Drives in America

Length: 469 miles.

When to go: Popular year-round, but loveliest in spring and fall.

Words to the wise: Some sections of the parkway may be closed in winter due to snow and ice.

Nearby attractions: Biltmore Estate, Asheville, NC. Blue Ridge Music Center, Cumberland Knob, NC (to open summer, 2005).

Visitor centers: Humpback Rocks; James River; Peaks of Otter, Rocky Knob; Cumberland Knob; Moses H. Cone, Linn Cove Viaduct; Linville Falls; Craggy Gardens.

Further information: Blue Ridge Parkway, 199 Hemphill Knob, Asheville, NC 28803; tel. 828-298-0398, www.nps.gov/blri.