Blog

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

Photo by Vicki Dameron

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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New Trails on the Horizon for Kids in Parks Thanks to a Grant from the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina Foundation

January 20, 2015
(WINSTON-SALEM, N.C.) - More TRACK trails mean more happy and healthy children and families thanks to a new grant from the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (BCBSNC) Foundation. Kids in Parks (KIP), a signature program of the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation, has been awarded $921,000 from the BCBSNC Foundation to continue its work helping kids and families reconnect with nature through TRACK Trails.
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