2018 provided some magical moments in Virginia’s Blue Ridge.

Despite it being the wettest year in recorded history in the region, locals and visitors took advantage of the opportunity to be a #trailsetter and enjoy many of the incredible experiences around the Roanoke Valley.

You conquered trails, chased the sun, and climbed to breathtaking summits in the Blue Ridge Mountains, and captured the beauty of the region in all four seasons.

The following collection features the 10 most popular Instagram posts we shared on our @visitvbr account this past year. These Instagram superstars tagged us in their posts and/or used our #BlueRidgeDay and #visitvbr hashtags.

Enjoy these spectacular scenes from Virginia’s Blue Ridge!

1. Sunrise Over the Peaks of Otter

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Kristina "nini" Love (@kristinalovephotography) on

This gorgeous view from the Blue Ridge Parkway looking toward the Peaks of Otter helps show why this scenic route is known as “America’s Favorite Drive.” It’s one of many great scenic mountain drives in Virginia’s Blue Ridge >

2. Fall on McAfee Knob

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Rochelle Masudal (@masudal_noodle) on

McAfee Knob is beautiful in any season, which is part of why it’s one of the most photographed spots on the Appalachian Trail. However, this post showcases what also makes it one of the 10 hikes for the best fall colors in Virginia’s Blue Ridge >

3. Sunrise on the Blue Ridge Parkway

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Kristina "nini" Love (@kristinalovephotography) on

An early morning on the Blue Ridge Parkway is the perfect way to start a #BlueRidgeDay. There are multiple overlooks between Roanoke and the Peaks of Otter that offer incredible views.

Learn More: 7 Iconic Overlooks on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia's Blue Ridge > 

4. Snow in Botetourt County

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Joanna Yonts (@noordinarysunset) on

We certainly received our fair share of snow in 2018 in Virginia’s Blue Ridge, and everyone loved this winter wonderland scene near Fincastle in Botetourt County.

Learn More: Top 5 Reasons for a Winter Visit to Virginia's Blue Ridge >

5. Ice on Dragon’s Tooth

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Jeff Lippy (@jeff.lippy) on

Part of the Virginia Triple Crown for hiking on the Appalachian Trail, Dragon’s Tooth is a unique geological structure that looks especially stunning when there’s ice on the ground, trees, and rocks. The hike isn’t for the faint of heart, but a trip to the tooth means you’re checking out one of the seven natural wonders of Virginia’s Blue Ridge >

6. Relaxing on Roanoke Mountain

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Brittni (@brittnivalen) on

One of the best parts of a visit to Virginia’s Blue Ridge is simply taking the time to relax and enjoy the view. Set up the hammock and live your best life on Roanoke Mountain.

Learn More: Where to See Stunning Sunsets in Virginia's Blue Ridge >

7. Fall Colors on Hay Rock

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by ALINA 🛸 (@alinazbv) on

Peak fall color was a bit late this year in Virginia’s Blue Ridge (and around the country), but once it arrived, it was quite a show. Looking out at the leaves from Hay Rock on Tinker Mountain is one of our favorite autumn adventures!

Learn More: 10 Hidden Gems on the Appalachian Trail >

8. Snow Day on Hay Rock

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Erin Markham (@erinnnnmarkham) on

It’s unusual to get a big snow storm in Virginia’s Blue Ridge in early December, but Erin made the most of the opportunity with a hike to Hay Rock to capture a few awesome photos.

Learn More: 6 Winter Outdoor Adventures in Virginia's Blue Ridge >

9. Roanoke Mountain Overlook

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Eddie Romero (@through_eddies_lens) on

Located less than 15 minutes from Downtown Roanoke, the overlook on Roanoke Mountain offers one of the best views along the Blue Ridge Parkway and is easily accessible.

Learn More: 10 Breathtaking Views Without Having to Catch Your Breath >

10. Cabins at Explore Park

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Virginia's Blue Ridge (@visitvbr) on

People are extremely excited about the new overnight lodging options, including cabins, camping, yurts and RV sites, that are available at Explore Park in Roanoke County. Book yours now >


Our @visitvbr Instagram account is full of images we share from people who tag us and use our #BlueRidgeDay, #visitvbr, or #trailsetter hashtags. Remember to tag us in your posts for a chance to be featured!

Need more photo inspiration? Here are a few resources to get your creative juices flowing: