Blue Ridge Parkway Day Trips from Lynchburg

The Blue Ridge Parkway is America's most visited national parkway, and Lynchburg is one of the closest cities with full amenities and easy access to the ridgeline. From our property, you can reach the Parkway in 25 minutes.

Peaks of Otter (45 minutes)

Milepost 86. The most popular stop near Lynchburg. Sharp Top is a 3.2-mile round-trip hike to a 360-degree summit view. The Peaks of Otter Lodge has a restaurant with lake views, good for lunch after the hike. Abbott Lake is an easy flat loop if you want something less strenuous.

Apple Orchard Falls (50 minutes)

Milepost 78. A 7.4-mile round-trip trail to a 150-foot waterfall. Moderately difficult. Best in spring when water flow is high.

James River Visitor Center (30 minutes)

Milepost 63. The lowest point on the entire Parkway at 649 feet. The Trail of Trees is a short accessible walk. The restored Kanawha Canal locks are worth seeing.

Otter Creek (35 minutes)

Mileposts 58-63. Multiple small waterfalls and creek crossings along an easy trail. Good for families with young kids.

Heading South Toward Roanoke

If you drive south from Peaks of Otter toward Roanoke (about an hour), you pass some of the best overlooks on the Virginia section. The Roanoke Star at Mill Mountain is a classic stop. McAfee Knob, the most photographed point on the Appalachian Trail, is a 8.8-mile round-trip hike from the Parkway.

Best Times to Visit

Fall foliage peaks mid-October and the Parkway gets crowded. Spring wildflowers bloom in April and May with lighter traffic. Summer is warm but mountain elevations keep it cooler than the valley. Winter: check for road closures, some sections close in ice and snow.

Smith Mountain Lake Side Trip

If you have extra time, Smith Mountain Lake is about 45 minutes southeast of the Parkway. Over 500 miles of shoreline, world-class fishing for trophy striped bass, four golf courses, and lakeside dining at places like Mango's Bar & Grill and The Landing Restaurant. Boat rentals are available at Bridgewater Marina and several others.

Stay with Us

Book direct and save up to 15% vs Airbnb. Our property is minutes from everything mentioned in this guide.