The bountiful trails around the Blue Ridge Parkway allow you to receive the many health benefits of hiking, while you take in the natural features and geography of the Blue Ridge portion of the Appalachian Mountains. The Parkway spans 469 miles through Virginia and North Carolina, and the trails branch off from the scenic parkway to deliver glimpses into rustic Appalachia.
Trail Difficulties
Whether you're an avid, experienced hiker looking for a strenuous, rugged hike or you're just looking for a leg-stretcher and the chance to get off the road, you will find a trail with a suitable difficulty rating for your desired hike. The trails range from easy to strenuous throughout the span of the Blue Ridge Parkway, and some even mix it up by starting off easy and then going over rugged terrain.
If you're looking for a short, strenuous hike, try Apple Orchard Falls located at milepost (MP) 78.4. If you want to explore the scenery with a low-impact, easy hike, consider the one-half mile Cumberland Knob Trail at MP 217.5.
Trail Lengths
Just as the difficulties vary, the lengths of trails vary as well. Some trails are more than 10 miles long, requiring careful planning and timing. The Tanawha Trail, in North Carolina, stretches for 13.5 miles, but has nine access points from the Parkway with several in the Grandfather Mountain area. Several trails also have access points off the Tanawha. The Mabry Mill trail, on the other hand, is only one-half mile long and is considered easy, providing for a leg-stretcher.
If you're really serious about a long hike, consider the Appalachian Trail. The trail parallels 100 miles of the Parkway, but spans from Georgia to Maine over a 2,175-mile course.
Health Benefits
Besides the benefit of putting you in nature, hiking the Blue Ridge provides many health benefits as well. Hiking is generally considered a low-impact workout--depending on terrain--which develops and tones the lower body. Hiking can also tone the heart and provide cardiovascular benefits, such as raising HDL--the good cholesterol--and reducing blood pressure, according to Kristie Leong, MD, in an article published on HealthMad.
Considerations/Preparation
With the vast differences in elevation and terrain, preparing for a hike allows you to have the most enjoyable experience. Always wear comfortable, supportive hiking shoes or boots while hiking to prevent injuries. Dress for the trip. If you plan to hike in the higher elevations along the Parkway, consider dressing in layers as the temperatures can vary greatly as you hike up or down in elevation. Backcountry hikes such as hikes around Grandfather Mountain and other areas, require permits.
Warning
Hiking the Blue Ridge doesn't come without warnings. The area is home to several species which may warrant concern, including black bears and two pit vipers. As of 2010, the black bear population in the area was on the rise, proving a great success as many other species decline in numbers.
Keeping human-to-bear conflict in check means giving the animal its due respect, including viewing from a distance. If a bear charges, grunts or hits the ground, you're too close. Back away slowly--don't run--and make yourself appear larger by getting to a higher point. Make loud noises and shout.
The two pit vipers in the area, copperheads and timber rattlesnakes, are wary of humans and considered non-aggressive. They will strike, however, if provoked. Watch your step when hiking through the mountains to prevent a confrontation with one of these venomous snakes.
Member Comments