If there’s one thing that can take most people’s breath away, it’s a gorgeous view of natural scenery. Fortunately for the Central Virginia area, there’s plenty of that to go around. With tall mountains, rolling hills and lush green forests, there’s plenty to see in Lynchburg and the surrounding area. We know how fun it can be to go on a scenic drive, so here are some for you to consider as this spring comes into full bloom.
Blue Ridge Parkway
The north entrance to the Blue Ridge Parkway is close to Lynchburg in the Big Island area. For anyone who enjoys the views of the Blue Ridge Mountains from the Lynchburg area, the view from the parkway is sure to be a treat. This is especially true on a sunny day when the sky is blue and the clouds cast shadows over the trees and fields. This slow-paced and relaxing drive, which lasts a grand total of 469 miles, is a great option for sightseeing and stopping for a hike.
Peaks of Otter
Part of the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Peaks of Otter boasts similar views. Its three main mountains, Sharp Top, Flat Top and Harkening Hill, are popular hiking spots, and are just as beautiful on the road as on the Appalachian trail. Historic national figureheads such as Thomas Jefferson and Robert E. Lee even wrote about its beauty. Along this stretch of road, there are many restaurants, pull-over view spots, campgrounds, trail entrances, wildlife exhibits, interactive programs and much more. So next time you’re hankering to get away for just a little while, try going cruising along the Peaks of Otter.
Liberty Mountain Drive
Of course, you don’t have to go much further than one of the main commercial areas of Lynchburg to find a beautiful view. The drive along Liberty Mountain on Liberty University property is just as stunning. Stretching from the Snowflex area to the Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine building, this short but sweet drive offers one of the best views of Lynchburg and the Blue Ridge Mountains in the area. Additionally, the College of Osteopathic Medicine building offers an overlook with a photogenic view that’s especially good at dawn or dusk. From Liberty Mountain Drive, you can also access the Liberty Mountain Trail System.
U.S. Route 460: Lynchburg—Roanoke
(Image Credit: Doug Kerr)
Anyone who’s ever driven the approximately 50-mile distance between Lynchburg and Roanoke can confirm: it’s a beauty. This stretch of highway is packed with lush countryside, wooded pass-throughs and rising mountain views. It takes you along rolling hills and around curves that will surprise you with impressive displays of natural scenery. Along this highway are located many restaurants, entrances to the Appalachian Trail and travel destinations like orchards and breweries, so you won’t be short of opportunities to stop for a quick picture, take in a view, get a tour or snag a bite to eat.
As spring springs, we hope you enjoy all the views, colors and smells that Lynchburg has to offer. Don’t forget to drive safely!