Peaks of Otter Visitor Center — Attraction in Bedford

Peaks of Otter is a recreation area on the Blue Ridge Parkway just north of Bedford. As the name suggests, there are three prominent peaks - Flat Top, Sharp Top, and Hearkening Hill. You can hike to the top of each for fantastic views of the surrounding countryside, but the hikes are strenuous with significant elevation gain. For those not up for a hike, a bus is seasonally available to bring visitors to near the top of Sharp Top. Thomas Jefferson believed that Sharp Top was the highest point in Virginia (it's not - Mount Rogers is the highest point in Virginia and even Flat Top is higher than Sharp Top) and rocks from the summit were sent to DC for the construction of the Washington Monument. There is a visitor center along the parkway where park rangers can tell you more about the natural and cultural history of the area and there are several historic buildings and farms to check out. For accommodations, the park has a developed campground with flush toilets and running water, and there is a lodge for those looking for a less rugged experience, situated right on Abbott Lake, nestled between the peaks. Another spot worth checking out is Fallingwater Cascades, a small waterfall. Drive just a couple miles north on the parkway to Fallingwater Parking Area and follow the 1.6-mile loop to...

The Peaks of Otter is a special place in Virginia. Not only is the unique peaks of otter salamander found here, there are a lot of other distinctive wonders to find, many as a result of the higher elevations. This area is also one of the best places to escape the summer heat of lower elevations and hence, driving up here in the summer makes a casual summer walk actually enjoyable! There are numerous hiking opportunities for everyone ranging from easy to hard and the views from Sharp Top Mtn are incredible. If you prefer a leisurely stroll around the lake, you can enjoy the mountain peak rising high above you. Since access is immediately off the Blue Ridge Parkway, visitation can be busy at times, especially when fall foliage is at its peak color. If the weather turns bad, the visitor center is a fun place to check out with a small interpretative display that is very relevant to the geographic location. The NPS staff as well as lodge staff (down the road) are friendly and helpful. In sum, this park is definitely a great place to bring families and get away from the urbanization of everyday life. Overall, this is a great place and I strongly recommend taking the...

This is one of my favorite hiking places in Virginia. The view at the top of Sharp Top mountain is breath taking and Flat Top isn't bad either. During the weekend on nice weather days solitude will be hard to find on the Sharp Top trail. You will probably have better luck on Flat Top. The best time to come is early morning, but watch out for the bears.

The visitor center has a bathroom and gift shop. It's nice to be able to grab a drink or snack after a hike. You can also purchase tickets for the bus ride up to the top of Sharp Top. The rangers and gift shop workers are very friendly and will help you with any directions you need.

The lodge is also within walking distance of the visitor center and that offers a trail around the lake. More great views with less stress on the legs. Overall this makes a great day trip with friends or even solo. The visitor center is at the perfect location to...