What is the first place that comes to mind when you hear the Blue Ridge Mountains? Most of us likely think of Virginia or North Carolina, through which the Blue Ridge Parkway meanders, providing breathtaking views of this majestic mountain. However, did you know that the Blue Ridge Mountains actually begin in the small town of Carlisle, Pennsylvania?

Depending on how you look at it, the Blue Ridge Mountains either start or end in Pennsylvania. The 615-mile mountain range travels from Carlisle, Pennsylvania to Mt. Oglethorpe, Georgia.
Facebook/Carlisle Borough Government
A segment of the Appalachian Mountains, the Blue Ridge Mountains meander through several states, including Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Georgia.
Flickr/Ben Schumin
The photo above is a shot of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia.
Several state parks are home to the famous mountain range, with two a short driving distance from the small town of Carlisle.
Flickr/Tiffany Harkleroad

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Nestled at the northern tip of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Pine Grove Furnace State Park in Gardeners is just 14 miles from Carlisle. Along with two mountain lakes, the Pennsylvania state park is known for its hiking.
Trip Advisor/E3678OLcharlesr
The Appalachian Trail runs through the park. Perhaps one of the most famous hiking trails in the United States, the Appalachian Trail stretches from Springer Mountain, Georgia to Katahdin, Maine, and spans 2,190 miles.
Trip Advisor/Cathy C.
If you travel 14 miles south of Pine Furnace State Park, you’ll arrive at Michaux State Forest, which is also in the northern part of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The park is best explored on one of its scenic hiking trails.
Google/Bryan Paul
Atop South Mountain in Michaux State Forest is the official halfway point of the Appalachian Trail.
Learn more on the Pine Grove Furnace State Park website and on the Michaux State Forest website.
Google/Jennifer Schubert

Did you know that the Blue Ridge Mountains start in the small town of Carlisle, Pennsylvania? Have you been? Let us know in the comments! When you’re looking for the perfect day trip, consider making it to the small town of Carlisle, Pennsylvania.

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