Abbott Lake, the lake at the base of the peaks, was man made and created in 1964 along with the official Peaks of Otter Lodge, which still stands today. We kept our distance but it was pretty exciting to see him wandering around the lake. The Peaks of Otter. This is perhaps our most visited spot in Central Virginia. Behind the Peaks of Otter Lodge is Abbott Lake, named for Stanley William Abbott, the Parkway’s first resident landscape architect and planner. The whole trail is around 2 miles. Peaks of Otter . The lodge at Peaks of Otter features more than 60 rooms and has a restaurant and lounge. It's all here from a leisurely stroll around Abbott Lake to a challenging hike up Sharp Top Mountain, to night skies viewing and special events. Immagine di Peaks of Otter Lodge, Bedford: lake - Guarda i 1.078 video e foto amatoriali dei membri di Tripadvisor su Peaks of Otter Lodge. The Peaks of Otter TRACK Trail follows the Abbott Lake Trail for an easy 1-mile loop around the lake, and then the Johnson Farm Trail for a 1.8-mile loop that passes through Johnson Farm - a mountain farmstead that exists today as it did in the 1850's. Peaks of Otter Inn is also great for business and corporate happenings, offering facilities for conferences, banquets, and meetings. Peaks of Otter's Lake View Restaurant is a renowned dining destination on the Blue Ridge Parkway. All the rocks and ground near the stream are covered with moss and the old picnic tables made of stone are like something out of a Tolkien novel. What exactly are the Peaks of Otter? The primary activity at Peaks of Otter is hiking. It’s generally easy to travel but there are some very steep hills as you near the farm. With stunning views, natural beauty, and the surrounding Jefferson National Forest, it’s no wonder the Peaks of Otter area has attracted people to the region for more than 8,000 years. Peaks of Otter Hiking Trails Sharp Top Trail (1.5 miles to the summit) This is the most popular trail at the Peaks and originates at the Nature Center across the Parkway from the Visitor Center. We fell in love with Peaks of Otter the first time we went there. Usually, the food is good to excellent but the quality of service is often “hit or miss.” This is truly a shame because... this degrades what would otherwise be is a … Best of all, Peaks of Otter Lodge makes it easy to experience some great Bedford attractions like Bower Center for the Arts, which is a popular art gallery. Belong anywhere with Airbnb. These majestic spires dominate the skyline and the scenic vistas for miles around, making them the crown jewels in this pristine forest and recreational oasis. There is also a craft shop just off the main lobby. Sharp Top Hike: We parked and began the hike at the Peaks of Otter Visitor Center and crossed the BRP staying on the sidewalk for about 200 yards and then took a right across Route 43 heading to the Sharp Top parking area (you could also park here). Stop along the left edge by the water to see the fish coming up to mooch some food. They include Sharp Top (altitude 3,875 feet); Flat Top (4,004 feet) and Harkening Hill (3,375 feet). Sharp Top is historically significant as it marked the northernmost boundary of the Cherokee Nation. They are actually a series on mountains overlooking the town of Bedford. Peaks of Otter’s Lake View Restaurant is a renowned destination for dining with a menu featuring fresh and organic local ingredients and regional specialties. We took a trip to the Blue Ridge Mountains in VA. Our first stop was The Peaks of Otter. Nestled between these mountains is Abbott Lake. It's a beautiful trail, made even more enjoyable by the diversity available in the land surrounding the lake and by the beautiful views of Flat Top Mountain, one of the three Peaks of Otter. This area includes a 62-table picnic area, camp store, and 141-site campground, which features 53 RV/Trailer sites. It’s a Korean version of Goldilocks and the Three Bears. Peaks of Otter Lodge is in Virginia, along the northern portion of the Blue Ridge Parkway. “What is 45 + 32?”. Three little bears live in one little house, Father Bear, Momma Bear, Baby Bear! They include Sharp Top (altitude 3,875 feet); Flat Top (4,004 feet) and Harkening Hill (3,375 feet). We always take the 460 East from Lynchburg to the first Bedford Exit. Past a house that dates back to colonial days and then to the lodge. Standing guard over the lush woodland forests that engulf the famed Blue Ridge Parkway are the three Peaks of Otter: Sharp Top, Flat Top, and Harkening Hill. View Details. Historic buildings include: Johnson Farm and Polly Woods Ordinary. It is open May through October. It helps that it’s less than 30 minutes from Lynchburg but that is just an added plus. We haven’t stayed there yet but that might be a future close and fairly cheap vacation. Eat and watch the lake from your table or enjoy the live entertainment as you talk with friends and family. They are actually a series on mountains overlooking the town of Bedford. We also saw that someone else posted some pictures of the little guy on Facebook. It really is a scenic place. View Map > Visit Website > View Details > Appalachian Trail. Reservations can be made for portions of this campground online at www.recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. Get the Parkway Travel Planner (PDF or Print), ©2020 Blue Ridge Parkway Association, Inc. All Rights Reserved, Enjoy the Peaks of Otter Lodge with 63 rooms and restaurant, Stop by the Visitor Center at Milepost 86 to find a ranger or get information about programs, Picnic amid natural beauty along Little Stoney Creek with tables, charcoal grills and comfort stations, Take a hike, with six trails to choose from within the Peaks of Otter area and three National Scenic Trails fewer than eight miles away, Go fish! The lodge is at Milepost 86 on Blueridge Parkway north of Roanoke. Explore Polly Wood’s Ordinary, a cabin that served as the first lodging for travelers through the area starting in the early 1830’s. Today, the Peaks of Otter still inspires travelers on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Abbott Lake is open to fishing for anyone with a valid North Carolina or Virginia fishing license. I’ll explain what is out that way further down the page. Prices vary depending on the time of week and year but from what I have seen they are around $96 to $141. Today, the Peaks of Otter still inspires travelers on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Bus rides to within 1,500 feet of the Sharp Top summit are available at a station not far from the visitor center. The visitor center offers restrooms, water, and an amphitheater. What exactly are the Peaks of Otter? Enjoy all three or just have a leisurely walk around the lake. You may also see other wildlife, including deer, turtle, fish, or bear. Guest rooms offer amenities such as a flat screen TV and air conditioning, and guests can go online with free internet access offered by the hotel. Located at Milepost 86 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Peaks of Otter Lodge is found in a naturally serene location with the pristine Abbott Lake and majestic Sharp Top Mountain as the backdrop. It is open May through October. The other thing you must enjoy is a drive along the Blueridge Parkway. Johnson Farm is also here – a living history farm that entices visitors to play games, help work the garden, or enjoy nature’s beauty by relaxing on the porch in a rocking chair. Depending on the time of year and the weather this is truly a magical area. Bring your hobbits and four-legged friends with you and you can enjoy this area as you follow the winding paths and cross back and forth over the stream. Just after crossing Route 43 there is an intersection on the left that leads to the Lake Trail. At Peaks of Otter Lodge, your comfort and satisfaction come first, and they look forward to … PLEASE READ, https://foxbythecampfire.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Bear-video.mp4. Peaks of Otter Lake is a reservoir located just 7 miles from Buchanan, in Bedford County, in the state of Virginia, United States, near Reba, VA. Join us as we discuss the Virginia Fishing License options, fishing rules and fishing regulations. Continue around to a wooded area that is opposite the Peaks of Otter Lodge. The lodge has a great place to eat called the Lake View Restaurant with a nice range of meals. Postcards, books, and other items reflecting nature and local-interest themes are sold here, and the center features an exhibit on wildflowers, birds, and animals of the Blue Ridge. Interpretive board at summit of Sharp Top Mountain, the Peaks Of Otter, the Blue Ridge Mountains, Virginia, USA. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Dec 21, 2020 - Rent from people in Peaks of Otter, VA from $20/night. Pet Friendly Abbott Lake Trail. Bedford, VA 24523. Peaks of Otter is one of only two places along the Parkway where you can stay without driving to a nearby community. Home > Experiences > Outdoor Adventures > Hiking & Walking Trails. My wife provided the editing and iPad music accompanying the post. Remember the little tunnel at the beginning of our journey? At Peaks of Otter Lodge, your comfort and satisfaction come first, and they look forward to … Whether you're in the mood for a simple tasty … With a menu featuring fresh and local ingredients and regional specialties, the restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner daily in season. During your visit, be sure to check out a popular Bedford shrimp restaurant such as Peaks of Otter Lodge Restaurant, which is a short distance from Peaks of Otter Lodge. When you first get to Peaks of Otter you will notice the tranquil beauty of this lake. - Guarda i 1.078 video e foto amatoriali dei membri di Tripadvisor su Peaks of Otter Lodge. We always take our time and are able to see many deer around the hours of 6 or 7 at night. Explore the three mountain peaks that are Peaks of Otter! There are a few peak days when you might see some higher prices but check them out for yourself. Here are our favorite sights to see and places to go. Be careful of deer along the road both on the way there and on the way back. Overlooking the town of Bedford, they include Sharp Top (altitude 3,875 feet); Flat Top (4,004 feet) and Harkening Hill (3,375 feet). Immagine di Peaks of Otter Lodge, Bedford: Sunset over lake at Peaks of Otter Lodge, view from room 315 balcony. These days it is getting so hot so my wife and daughter drove there for a nice morning walk. [3] [4] Activities . If you are like us you will follow the path around counter-clockwise or as you are looking at the lake to your right. Immagine di Peaks of Otter Lodge, Bedford: Across the lake - Guarda i 1.078 video e foto amatoriali dei membri di Tripadvisor su Peaks of Otter Lodge. Happy hiking ~ Jim. That leads to Johnson Farm Trail go under the road and turn right and follow the trail along to a farm, which has been restored to represent regional life in the 1930s. We saw this little guy wandering about Abbot Lake at Peaks of Otter. 85554 Blue Ridge Parkway. The area wasn’t a secret for long: in 1834 the first inn opened and by the turn of the century the Peaks of Otter was a popular tourist destination. https://www.mapquest.com/us/virginia/peaks-of-otter-lodge-290868446 Nestled between two of the three mountains that make up Peaks of Otter, the Lodge offers 63 rooms, banquet and meeting facilities, Lake View Dining Room, a lounge and a gift shop – all overlooking beautiful Abbott Lake and majestic Sharp Top Mountain. So travel often and travel safe my friends and we will see you on the trails. Visit Website > View Details > Blue Ridge Parkway – Peaks of Otter … The Peaks of Otter Lodge is located at Milepost 86 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. The 24-acre lake features a one-mile loop trail, and is stocked with smallmouth bass, catfish, golden shiners, sunfish, and blue gill. Thanks for the nice comments, Martin. Gross & Sons Orchard (3.0 mi), a popular Bedford landmark, Peaks of Otter Lodge is a great destination for tourists. The path continues around the lake. Next you will come close to an area that depending on the time of year will be filled with deer eating crab apples that have fallen form the trees on the right. Hiking & Walking Trails. THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS. They probably will just stare at you like cattle do as you walk by. Keep your eyes peeled as you hike for the Peaks of Otter Salamander, which is only found in this area! The Peaks of Otter is formed by the triangulation of three mountains: Sharp Top Mountain, with a summit of 3875 feet; Flat Top Mountain, whose peak is at 4001 feet; and Harkening Hill, whose apex reaches 3372 feet. BRPA is the official marketing partner of the Blue Ridge Parkway – NPS. News. During your visit, be sure to check out a popular Bedford shrimp restaurant such as Peaks of Otter Lodge Restaurant, which is a short distance from Peaks of Otter Lodge. The lodge is typically open from spring to late fall, as well as weekends in the winter. Peaks of Otter Lodge. Enjoy all three or just have a leisurely walk around the lake. From there you pick up Route 43 North (Peaks Street) to the Blue Ridge Parkway. The lodge offers 63 guest rooms alongside beautiful Abbott Lake. Best of all, Peaks of Otter Lodge makes it easy to experience some great Bedford attractions like Bower Center for the Arts, which is a popular art gallery. Peak of Otters Blue Ridge Parkway is also set beside the lake and offers guests a spectacular view of nature sceneries. peaks of otter, virginia, united states, american victorian engraving, 1872 - peaks of otter stock illustrations peaks of otter - abott lake - peaks of otter stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images Peaks of Otter Lodge: This historic lodge offers 63 rooms, a full-service restaurant, and lounge. Blue Ridge Hiking. We race to the bridge and ask, “What… is the air-speed velocity of an unladen swallow?” My wife has turned it into a chance to quiz the young one on her math skills. The Peaks of Otter Park contains numerous other facilities which include restrooms, picnic facilities, hiking trails, campground, motel, and restaurant. Fresh local ingredients, spectacular regional specialties, and views of Abbott Lake make dining at Peaks of Otter Lake View Restaurant a feast for the senses! Native Americans passed through the area while hunting, and European settlers began to call the region home in the mid-1700s. The area wasn’t a secret for long: in 1834 the first inn opened and by the turn of the century the Peaks of Otter was a popular tourist destination. Abbot Lake was drained in … The Peaks of Otter Lodge is a beautiful lodge on a lovely lake that affords outstanding, scenic views from the dining room. If you have the chance, stop by to see for yourself. They are also pet friendly so bring your 4-legged friend for a little R and R. Cell reception is almost nill and WiFi is spotty so consider it a perfect time to unplug and get away from the rat race as you watch the sun set behind the mountains at night from the comfort of your cozy little room. Close to A.J. Historic Peaks of Otter offers picturesque views and historic legacy among the Blue Ridge Mountains. Visit the Peaks of Otter Lodge website to see available dates and … There are several areas where you can see breathtaking views from the overlooks along the way. Peaks of Otter Lodge Ridge Region | Bedford Area. The Lodge is located 500 yards on the right. There is a little tunnel going under a bridge on the way around but we normally don’t go that way. You will then start on a wooden walkway that goes through a tiny marshy area. 130571706@N07 16648435415 Sharp Top Mountain across Abbott Lake Peaks of Otter MP86 on the Blue Ridge Parkway 2-14-14 PH Peaks of Otter, Blue Ridge Parkway, Bedford, Virginia. Please note the special regulations posted lakeside, Explore a small gift shop for Blue Ridge Parkway keepsakes at the Visitor Center, Grab a snack or camping supplies at the camp store, located at the start of the Sharp Top trail, near the campground, Camp under the stars at a Parkway-operated 144-site campground at the foot of Sharp Top mountain, with sites for 92 tents and 52 trailers or RVs, water, comfort stations with flush toilets and cold water sinks (no showers or hook-ups), Parkway recorded information line: 828-298-0398. They met someone who told them that the bear is a regular at the nearby campsite. Peaks of Otter Lodge Hotel is a lodging ideal for your value, comfort, and convenience. My daughter and I love to re-enact scenes from Monty Python and the Holy Grail. Explore the most popular trails in my list Peaks of Otter with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you. 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