The parkway, within a day's drive of 20 states that contain more than half of the nation's population, is one of the most popular units of the National Park System. You'll discover more than 300 miles of hiking trails. At night, bobcats, foxes, skunks and raccoons may be spotted. More than 100 species of birds pass through during spring migration season. Remember, camping is limited to 14 days, and campsites cannot be reserved.
Lodging also is available in communities adjacent to the parkway.
For a memorable place to stay in North Carolina, reserve a room at the Grove Park Inn Resort in Asheville, a grand old hostelry listed on the National Register of Historic Places. You would be in good company. Diana C. Gleasner and husband, Bill, are a photojournalism team from North Carolina, specializing in travel writing and photography.