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Blue Ridge Parkway Approaching 16 Million In Annual Visitation

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By Compiled From N... - February 18th, 2022

Though it runs 469 miles, the Blue Ridge Parkway is seeing impacts from the nearly 16 million visitors who traveled the scenic byway in 2021/NPS file

The Blue Ridge Parkway drew a large number of visitors in 2021, nearly 16 million, and the impacts of that crush can be seen in some places along the 469-mile-long scenic road, according to the superintendent.

In announcing that number of visitors, park leadership and staff reached out to park neighbors and visitors to remind them that protecting the park for generations to come requires a shared commitment to stewardship.

“While overall Parkway visitation has remained relatively stable over the past five to ten years, some of the park's most popular destinations are seeing the impacts of heavy visitation,” said Blue Ridge Parkway Superintendent Tracy Swartout. “Overcrowding at popular locations can lead to diminished visitor experience and damage to park resources. These impacts can often be avoided by recreating responsibly. With 469 miles to explore, we encourage you to find new ways to enjoy the Parkway this year.”

One important way to discover new adventures and recreate responsibly is to plan ahead, a park release said. Just as park staff are planning ahead for the 2022 season by hiring seasonal staff, conducting winter maintenance activities, finalizing road project plans, and readying facilities for visitation, park visitors can also plan ahead by learning about park resources and trail etiquette, locating seasonal facility schedules, or book-marking campground reservation websites.

To prepare for your trip along the Parkway, check out these tips from the park staff.

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