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The northernmost end of the Blue Ridge Parkway begins with the Ridge Region at Milepost 0 in Afton, Virginia at the southern end of Skyline Drive where Shenandoah National Park ends.

The majority of the Parkway in Virginia runs through the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests. The landscapes along the Virginia portion of the Parkway also include beautiful rolling pastures – with both historical agricultural sites and those still in operation. The recreated mountain farm near Humpback Rocks at the beginning of the Parkway’s Ridge Region provides a glimpse of traditional early American settlements.

Explore Communities in the

Ridge Region

Listed North to South Milepost
Staunton, Waynesboro & Augusta County 16
Lynchburg, Amherst and Nelson County Area 27
Lexington, Natural Bridge, Buena Vista & Rockbridge County Area 45.6 – 63.7
Bedford Area 86 – 106
Buchanan & Botetourt County 90.9 – 106

Stories from the Ridge Region

June 16, 2022
I bet most of us have an example of a vacation that didn’t go as planned. A road was closed, a parking lot was full, traffic slowed or halted your progress to your destination. It throws a wrench into your travel plans and can even derail your trip. So, what should you do to help prepare for the unexpected? Here are nine practical tips for planning a successful Blue Ridge Parkway road trip.
March 16, 2022
The trees are budding, the sun is shining, rain is falling (plus a few snowflakes, too!), and spring ephemerals are starting to peek out on the forest floor. It is spring in the Blue Ridge Mountains! Some sections of the Parkway may still be closed due to winter weather at high elevations, but check out all these amazing spring activities that you can enjoy without needing to access the Parkway!

Recommended Itineraries

2 - 3 days
Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains is the divinely placed mountain town of Waynesboro, Virginia, connecting ridge top vistas with the most flavorful local brews and downtown destinations. Round up your friends - this group-friendly itinerary will leave you cheering for more. You'll find Waynesboro a perfect starting point for exploring both Skyline Drive and the northern end of the Blue Ridge Parkway.
2 - 3 days
Lynchburg, VA offers some stunning examples of historic architecture. Architecture buffs can tour our walkable Downtown and seven historic districts to learn more about the architectural marvels of Lynchburg for a fantastic weekend trip.