Visitor Amenities

Since 1955, the Museum of North Carolina Minerals has served as a hub of information about the area’s rich mineral resources and mining heritage. Constructed in part with stone quarried at Grandfather Mountain, the aging building's exterior requires repairs, including the replacement of damaged wood and fresh paint. Inside, the building needs a new HVAC system to ensure adequate climate control to protect the exhibits.

MATCHING GIFT OPPORTUNITY! With its prolific summer blooms of rhododendron and 360-degree mountaintop views, Craggy Gardens is an iconic Parkway destination that is loved by tourists and locals. It ranks as one of the most popular locations in America's most visited national park unit.

In 1938, the Parkway's most photographed site, Mabry Mill, was almost lost forever. In the early years of Parkway construction, many buildings were either designated to be saved or razed along the route.

The flat loop trail around picturesque Bass Lake is a popular destination for High Country residents and visitors alike. Unfortunately, the ramp that leads to the trail from the parking area creates an obstacle for guests with limited mobility. Your donation will provide safer access to a cherished place.  Donate

Lighting plays a vital role in the many aspects of the Blue Ridge Music Center's operation. You can make the venue, exhibits, and even the parking lot shine with support for these critical enhancements.

  Before the effort to rehabilitate The Bluffs Restaurant, there was little that generations of loyal customers could do to help their beloved dining establishment. Today, the opportunities are twofold. Care for the circa-1949 building

The Parkway’s designers created astounding roadside overlooks as hallmarks of the national park. Today, many are hidden by years of tree growth. With your help, arborist crews will clear overgrown vegetation at designated vistas.

Parkway volunteers fill a wide range of roles within the park, from operating chainsaws and repairing trails to serving as rover at popular visitation sites. By lending their time and talents, volunteers make the Blue Ridge Parkway a better and more beautiful place for everyone. With a gift, you can provide the supplies, training, and tools volunteers need to  rejuvenate sites and help visitors all along the Parkway.

As the National Park Service faces an astonishing price tag to repair all aspects of the Blue Ridge Parkway, coupled with impending budget constraints, care of the trails, campgrounds, picnic areas, and overlooks are falling to the bottom of the long list of priorities. That means, the places you enjoy nature on the Parkway desperately need your help!

A rehabilitation project for one of the most popular trails along the Blue Ridge Parkway is underway! A crew with the American Conservation Experience is repairing Craggy Flats Bald Trail, which has become deeply rutted, leading to erosion.