My wife and I were trying to get back home on Friday, 10/5, for a grandson’s final football game of the season (6th grade), but we managed to carve out a few hours for a drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway between Roanoke and Hillsville in Virginia.  We were glad we did.  The weather was wonderful, and the colors, while not yet to peak, were quite wonderful.

Tree in fall garb along the Blue Ridge Parkway

There were many wildflowers, mostly Asters, Goldenrod, and Wingstem, which are native plants.

Bee on Wingstem

Many Asters – both blue/purple and white – lined the Blue Ridge Parkway

There were also some non-native invasives, Knapweed and Oriental Bittersweet.

Knapweed

Oriental Bittersweet

Aside from the mountain vistas, there were other scenic views along the parkway.

Fence row south of Smart View Overlook

Rakes Mill Pond

One of our favorite stops along the parkway was at Mabry Mill.

Mabry Mill, Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia

Mabry Mill, Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia