The Blue Ridge Parkway is hardly a hidden gem in Virginia, but when was the last time you drove its entire length through the state?

Commonly noted as one of the most scenic drives in America, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers endless mountain vistas, informative overlooks, opportunities for hiking, and plenty of history along the way. With summer on its way, now is the perfect time to plan a road trip and experience some of the best scenery the Old Dominion has to offer. Without further ado, here are just a few glimpses of the parkway that will inspire your trip:

Welcome to the Blue Ridge Parkway, 469 paved miles that have won the heart of anyone who's visited. The parkway begins in Virginia and reaches all the way to North Carolina's Great Smoky Mountains.
Todd Van Hoosear/flickr
With its scenic overlooks and gentle turns, it's no mystery why this route is considered to be America's Favorite Drive.
Steve Markos/flickr
The northern entrance of the Blue Ridge Parkway can be found near Afton, Virginia. Even better, entering the park is completely free of charge.
daveynin/flickr
Along the way, visitors will enjoy ample overlooks and trails for stretching the legs. Humpback Rocks hike offers both. In just a mile, you'll reach an incredible overlook with sweeping views.
Kevin Oliver/flickr
You'll want to be sure to allot plenty of time to pull off the beaten path and meander down a trail or observe the natural landscape.
Kevin Oliver/flickr

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Perhaps the most iconic landmark in the Virginia portion of the Blue Ridge Parkway is Mabry Mill.
Arthur T. LaBar/flickr
Located at Mile Marker 176.2, this structure dates back to the early 20th century.
Al/flickr
For more information about historic Mabry Mill, click here.
You could easily spend all day on the Blue Ridge Parkway, and that's the best part. For every half an hour it would take you on a normal road, expect an hour on the Parkway.
Todd Van Hoosear/flickr
Enjoy the drive, stop to marvel at the scenery, and don't be afraid to wander off and explore a bit.
Craig Fildes/flickr
Ready to plan your trip? Click here for an interactive guide to the entire Blue Ridge Parkway.
Blue Ridge Parkway

You can also learn more information about the Blue Ridge Parkway by visiting the National Parks Service website here. Have you driven the entire Virginia portion of the parkway recently? What were your favorite stops along the way? Be sure to share them with us!

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