Nestled along the Blue Ridge Parkway, the hallmark Peaks of Otter – Sharp Top and Flat Top – stand out among the rich blue-hued mountainous terrain, their distinct silhouettes a familiar landmark that many in the area have hiked not just once, but many times.
According to Calvin Rice, who has worked the longest at the Peaks Lodge since it opened in 1964, the number one reason people give for going on the hike: “Exercise! . . . and to get to the top for the views!”
Folks are flocking in, delighted to reminisce about past visits and applauding the opportunity to continue the tradition of experiencing the Peaks as well as the Lodge and restaurant, which are in the process of many attractive upgrades. Eric Frantz, an assistant general manager with Delaware North Companies (DNC) was in town for the opening. He said, “People have been stopping in to eat at the restaurant, many walks-ins, people asking about what’s new here.”
The recent re-opening of Peaks of Otter Lodge has stirred up a “buzz” that might be surprising for a smaller park. The hiker and family outdoor-fun-seeker community response has proven to be a groundswell—it’s a best-kept secret no more. The heads-up came when Delaware North Companies saw a “ton of outpouring” on social media since they announced they would be assuming management of the park. Delaware North recently won a 10 year contract with the National Park Service to run the Lodge.
A longtime stop for travelers along the Parkway, it is also a destination from points afar, as Carolyn Fairs comments on FaceBook: “We’re hoping to visit from England next month! We were married by Sheriff Mike Brown by Abbott Lake 15 years ago – such beautiful, happy memories of the Peaks, that we will treasure forever.”
Fairs and her family can expect to see many cool upgrades like Keurig coffee machines in the rooms, wifi and a knock-out menu which incorporates locally grown ingredients. Marcus Story, the current on-site interim general manager, says that DNC “believes in using a lot of local products; you’ll see a lot from Bedford, Charlottesville and surrounding areas.” Plans are to add a coffee shop as well.
Also, from Story, breaking news for animal lovers: “We’ve now opened the lodge to our four legged friends as well, with the introduction of pet friendly rooms.”
Story adds, “Peaks differs from other parks. Every morning I wake up and the lake is so picturesque, the mountains are just amazing. We get so caught up in big cities we forget how much beautiful natural scenery is out there.”
The hike up Sharp Top is a mile and a half to its boulder-crowned peak, and at a steady pace takes about an hour and a half. From youngsters to grandparents, folks just starting on their way back down the trail give words of encouragement to those on the way up: “almost there—It’s just gorgeous! – you won’t believe it – SO worth it”—verbal high five’s that bond strangers on a shared journey.
The last leg is a climb through and around huge boulders that manage to mask the breathtaking 360 view until almost the last minute when you emerge at the summit—an unforgettable reward.
Bus service is also available via a green bus that arrives just 1,500 feet from the top for those not sure about making the climb. If you can manage to break a sweat, no one will know you rode the bus!
Happily many of the previous employees were re-hired for the 72 seasonal positions, but there are still some part-time positions available.
The re-opening is a boon to the local area and Frantz added “we are very thankful to the community to see them come out and visit with us.”
Visit www.peaksofotter.com or call (866) 387-9905 or (540) 586-1081 to make reservations or find out more information.
– Cheryl Vosburg
