Exploring the Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway runs through Nelson County. The Parkway has milepost markers at each mile along the drive. Many of the activities are described by the milepost markers. Today, we are going to explore the Parkway from milepost 5.8 to milepost 8.8.
Humpback Rocks at milepost 5.8 includes a replica of an Appalachian mountain farm. European settlers came to the Blue Ridge Mountains and settled near Humpback Rocks. Many self-sufficient farms sprang up in this area. Today, visitors can see a collection of 19th Century farm buildings that were moved to this park. The park is open year-round with the buildings open in the Summer months. The area also has a visitor’s center.
The visitor’s center has a small museum that shows life in the 19th and early 20th centuries in the mountains of Nelson County. This is a location that the whole family will find interesting. During the Summer months, park rangers dress in period clothing and demonstrate period crafts and skills.
There is a picnic area with 91 sites at milepost 8.5. Tables are scattered around nearby overlooks.
Hiking Trails: At milepost 6.0, you have the choice of an easy trail or a strenuous trail hike up Humpback Mountain. There is also access to the Appalachian Trail at this milepost. At milepost 8.8, there is a self-guided nature trail at the Greenstone Parking Overlook.
Make sure that you visit the Blue Ridge Parkway when in Nelson County. I hope to see you there…
