Blog

Catch up on the latest news about our efforts to protect the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Photo by A. Armstrong

Road to the Past: The First Park Centennial Celebration
February 3, 2016
This year, we celebrate the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service, but in 1972 crowds observed another centennial: the establishment of Yellowstone as the country's first national park. That's right. The first park preceded the National Park Service, which was established in 1916 to protect the 35 national parks and monuments then managed by the Department of the Interior and those yet to be established.
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Saving Hemlocks in the High Country
December 21, 2015
Inspiring the next generation of stewards is vital to the future of the Blue Ridge Parkway and all parks. The Foundation helped provide opportunities for young people to make a difference on the Parkway and gain hands-on experience caring for natural resources.
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Tunnel projects close sections of Parkway
December 15, 2015
Blue Ridge Parkway officials announce two tunnel repair projects occurring this winter to the north and south of the Asheville corridor. Both closures will be in effect from December 1, 2015 through spring of 2016. 
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First ADA trail on the Blue Ridge Parkway opens at Abbott Lake
December 4, 2015
Now even more visitors can enjoy the serene shoreline and peak views at Abbott Lake, milepost 86, thanks to a repaving project that created the first ADA trail on the Blue Ridge Parkway. The work completes one of five Centennial Challenge Projects funded by Congress and the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation in honor of the National Park Service’s Centennial Anniversary.
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Foundation honored with Excellence Award
December 4, 2015
The Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation was honored with the Tourism Excellence Award by the North Carolina Travel Industry Association (NCTIA) during a ceremony on November 3 in Charlotte.
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New Bridge Opens at Doughton Park
October 28, 2015
Just in time for a fall hike or backpacking trip, there's a new bridge on Grassy Gap Trail. In the past, the crossing over Basin Creek was often difficult, with only a long, precarious log spanning the waterway for hikers. Thanks to generous donations to the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation by members of the Piedmont Hiking and Outing Club, a 30-foot bridge now makes the trek safer and more accessible for everyone.
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Ribbon Cutting at new Linville Falls viewing area
October 13, 2015
(LINVILLE FALLS, Blue Ridge Parkway) – The new interpretive signs are installed, and it’s time to celebrate the completion of the expansion project at Upper Falls Overlook at Linville Falls with a ribbon cutting at 11 a.m., Friday, October 16.
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Foundation hosts reception at Pisgah Inn
September 2, 2015
The Foundation hosted more than 100 guests, including Blue Ridge Parkway staff, during a reception at the Pisgah Inn to share updates on work underway and plans for the future. Foundation Chair Broaddus Fitzpatrick, CEO Carolyn Ward, and Superintendent Mark Woods welcomed the group. 
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Asheville BMW Riders raise more than $6,500 for Mt. Pisgah
August 11, 2015
Asheville, NC - This spring, 75 riders strapped on their helmets and hopped in the saddle with one road on their minds: the Blue Ridge Parkway. They were setting out for the Blue Ridge High Pass Boogie, a motorcycle endurance challenge conceived by Asheville BMW Riders Vice President John Koenig, which raises funds for the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation.
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A celebration for Moses H. Cone Memorial Park
August 1, 2015
The Foundation launched its multiyear fund-raising initiative for Moses H. Cone Memorial Park in conjunction with Lees-McRae College Summer Theatre’s performances of The Denim King in Banner Elk, North Carolina. At the reception hosted by Kristen and Janet Cone, guests enjoyed delicious bites and drinks and learned about preservation plans for this estate on the National Register of Historic Places.
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Foundation hosts benefit for Moses H. Cone Memorial Park
July 22, 2015
(Banner Elk, NC - July 9, 2015) - Anyone who strolls the loop around Bass Lake, takes a horseback ride on the miles of carriage trails, or explores the stately Colonial Revival manor at Moses H. Cone Memorial Park makes a connection with the history of this remarkable place.
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Youth crew helps protect Hemlock trees on the Parkway
July 17, 2015
Inspiring the next generation of stewards is vital to the future of the Blue Ridge Parkway and all parks. The Foundation helped provide opportunities for young people to make a difference on the Parkway and gain hands-on experience caring for natural resources.
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Foundation commits $600,000 for Improvements and Programs on the Parkway
April 3, 2015
(ASHEVILLE, N.C.) – It’s the time of year when millions of visitors are eagerly anticipating their next adventure on the Blue Ridge Parkway. As they plan their drive, hike, or camping trip, the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation is preparing to meet their expectations by funding $600,000 in projects critical to the preservation and betterment of this treasured route.
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Teaming Up to Engage The Next Generation of Stewards
March 24, 2015
The Foundation and Conservation Trust for North Carolina are bringing youth crews to the Highlands District for trail and campground rehab Imagine working with newfound friends to rehabilitate and build trails by day and bond over a common goal under the stars at night. Sounds pretty great, right? That's what a crew of teenagers and young adults will do this summer in the
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