BOONE, N.C. – The Blue Ridge Parkway is open again.

The gates reopened for the first time Friday morning, and people from all over headed up the mountain.

Many used the time to go hiking and said that was a perfect exercise to do while keeping a safe distance from others.

Julian Price Lake was also a popular spot. Some took out canoes and others spread out and fished.

Most people on the lake said they enjoyed having this time to get away from it all and relax in the peace and tranquility.

One Charlotte family says time away from home was needed.

"(We're) tired of sitting around the house playing Yahtzee. We haven't played this much Yahtzee in the last four weeks that I am tired of sitting at home," Charlotte resident Judy Evans said.

Many people also headed to the overlooks Friday.

They used this time to drive the parkway and stop at many different spots to take pictures.

While most things on the parkway are back open, there are still a few closures. All restrooms, as well as the Julian Price Park Picnic Area, will not open until later phases.

To see what is open, you can click here.