By Jesse Wood
Aug. 19, 2014. The Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation recently held a public ribbon cutting for upgrades to Price Lake Loop that featured BRPF CEO Carolyn Ward and BRP Supt. Mark Woods last Thursday.
Already one of the more exceptional recreational opportunities in the High Country with the largest campground on the Blue Ridge Parkway and web of streams and trails, stunning waterfalls and a 47-acre lake, Julian Price Memorial Park has recently seen significant improvements.
A release from the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation noted that as one of the most beloved sites along the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Price Lake Loop has deteriorated with normal use and severe weather.
The foundation noted that the one section along the trail had become nearly impassable and hikers had to either turn around or traverse a “risky crossing” of the stream. The new boardwalk over the boggy area and a “rebuilding and realigning” of the first stretch of trail cost $36,000 and was the first phase of a more expansive project to increase accessibility of the trail.
Individual gifts from members of the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation’s Community of Stewards funded the initial improvements.
“Since we first erected the donor recognition board at the parking lot near the dam, we have been thrilled with the community’s response. It’s a testament to the feeling of ownership people have for this outstanding part of the Blue Ridge Parkway,” Ward said in a release. “Because of the generosity of a few donors, this trail is here and will be here for those who follow us. What a legacy to leave our children, a place better than we found it.”
Woods added, “I often quote the first National Park Service Director Stephen T. Mather who said ‘establishment of parks is not enough, what is needed are more people who will take the time to gain a better understanding of the important issues facing our National Parks.’ The Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation is reaching out to involve people and making a real difference. It’s a great partnership. I look forward to meeting those that made this project possible and those that want to be more involved with the Blue Ridge Parkway.”
For more information about Julian Price Memorial Park, click here.
For more information about the Blue Ridge Parkway, click here.
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