Blue Ridge Parkway reopens in Virginia

Less than three weeks since Hurricane Helene closed the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia for what officials said was an indefinite closure, the Virginia portion of the Blue Ridge Parkway has now reopened from milepost 1 to milepost 198 and will be open for its last 20 miles to the North Carolina line next week. Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin said this is “fantastic news” for communities along the famed route. Campgrounds along the Parkway will operate on a first-come, first-served basis until Monday, when existing reservations will be honored. Reduced services may continue as many employees are assisting operations in North Carolina. Trail assessments have not been completed in all areas, so hikers should use caution.