The Blue Ridge Parkway and Virginia's Blue Ridge are the subject of a recent feature in The Dallas Morning News.

The article describes the Blue Ridge Parkway as a "great American road trip" and highlights many of the outdoor experiences visitors can enjoy in the region. It recommends outdoor adventures such as hiking at Roaring Run and mountain biking at Explore Park. You can also explore the water on the Roanoke River Blueway, Upper James River Water Trail, or Smith Mountain Lake - the "Jewel of the Blue Ridge."

For additional activities, the article suggests checking out the Salem Farmers Market, Franklin County Historical Museum, Booker T. Washington National Monument, and the Blue Ridge Institute & Farm Museum.

The article was written by Beverly Burmeier, an Austin-based freelance writer who participated in a media tour hosted by Visit Virginia's Blue Ridge during the fall of 2015.

Burmeier describes the region as a great place for an overnight stay, writing:

"Roanoke is the largest metropolitan area along the Blue Ridge Parkway, but there are plenty of small towns to visit with wonderfully friendly people. The Roanoke Valley offers a variety of lodging choices for every budget including historic hotels, luxury waterfront suites and cottages, small hotels, and camping spots."

You can read the article in its entirety on The Dallas Morning News website.