Blue Ridge Parkway
A 469-mile scenic drive through the Appalachian Highlands, offering breathtaking vistas, hiking trails, and rich cultural history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds
Blue Ridge Parkway
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 469-mile scenic drive through the Appalachian Highlands, offering breathtaking vistas, hiking trails, and rich cultural history.
"This is a beautiful drive with several great stops."
⛽ Fuel Up Early
Gas stations are scarce. Fill your tank before you start your journey on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
🥾 Hike Smart
Many trails are accessible directly from overlooks. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water for your hikes.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mabry Mill
Milepost 176.2
A picturesque 19th-century gristmill, a step back in time. Perfect for photos and experiencing Appalachian history.
Linville Falls
Milepost 316.4
Witness the power of a multi-tiered waterfall cascading into a gorge. Several overlooks offer stunning views.
Craggy Gardens
Milepost 364.5
Known for its rhododendron blooms in early summer and breathtaking panoramic views. A must-see for nature lovers.
Mount Mitchell State Park
Milepost 355
Home to the highest peak east of the Mississippi River. Offers challenging hikes and unparalleled vistas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Embrace the Slow Lane
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⛽ Fuel Up Early
Gas stations are scarce. Fill your tank before you start your journey on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
🥾 Hike Smart
Many trails are accessible directly from overlooks. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water for your hikes.
🚽 Restroom Breaks
Plan your restroom stops! Facilities are limited and can be far apart.
📱 Download Offline Maps
Cell service is spotty to non-existent. Download maps and trail info beforehand.
Tips
from all over the internet
⛽ Fuel Up Early
Gas stations are scarce. Fill your tank before you start your journey on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
🥾 Hike Smart
Many trails are accessible directly from overlooks. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water for your hikes.
🚽 Restroom Breaks
Plan your restroom stops! Facilities are limited and can be far apart.
📱 Download Offline Maps
Cell service is spotty to non-existent. Download maps and trail info beforehand.
🍁 Fall Foliage Peak
For vibrant colors, aim for mid-October. Be prepared for crowds and potential traffic delays.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Blue Ridge Parkway for its breathtaking natural beauty and numerous scenic overlooks, calling it a truly spectacular drive. Many appreciate the opportunities for hiking and experiencing Appalachian history. However, some note the limited services, potential for winter closures, and significant crowds during peak fall foliage season.
"This is a beautiful drive with several great stops. There are turnoffs throughout that you can park and probably sleep."
Sir Owis
"Great place to hike in the winter when the parkway is closed, ample parking, beautiful drive to get there."
c. randall
"Went there twice and both times the parkway were closed to the winter season but the overlook remained opened. Had to park and walk over to the next overlook. Will come back when they are open."
David Bicknell
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Blue Ridge Parkway (BRP) is accessible from numerous points along its 469-mile length. Major access points connect to interstates like I-40, I-77, and I-81. You can also access it via US highways. Many visitors combine a drive on the BRP with Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park, which connects at its northern end.
Driving the entire Blue Ridge Parkway (BRP) takes a minimum of 2-3 days, but most people spend 4-7 days to truly enjoy the sights and hikes. The speed limit is 45 mph, and you'll want to stop frequently at overlooks.
Sections of the Blue Ridge Parkway (BRP) are often closed during winter months due to ice and snow. Always check the official NPS website for current road conditions and closures before your trip.
No, the Blue Ridge Parkway (BRP) is a free scenic drive managed by the National Park Service. There are no tolls to enter or drive on the parkway.
Skyline Drive is a 105-mile road through Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. The Blue Ridge Parkway (BRP) is a longer, 469-mile scenic road that begins where Skyline Drive ends and continues south through Virginia and North Carolina, eventually leading towards the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee or ticket required to drive the Blue Ridge Parkway (BRP). It's a free scenic road. However, entrance fees apply if you plan to visit specific National Parks like Shenandoah or Great Smoky Mountains that it connects to.
The Blue Ridge Parkway (BRP) is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, sections can be temporarily closed due to weather conditions, especially in winter. Always check the NPS website for current status.
Unlike many national parks, the Blue Ridge Parkway (BRP) does not have traditional entrance stations or gates. You can enter and exit the parkway at numerous points along its route.
Absolutely! Hiking is a major draw of the Blue Ridge Parkway (BRP). There are numerous trails ranging from short, easy walks to strenuous backcountry treks, accessible from overlooks and designated trailheads.
Yes, there are several visitor centers along the Blue Ridge Parkway (BRP) that offer information, exhibits, and restrooms. Popular ones include the Peaks of Otter Visitor Center and the Folk Art Center.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Blue Ridge Parkway (BRP) is famous for its overlooks! Some highly recommended spots include Linn Cove Viaduct, Grandfather Mountain (nearby access), Waterrock Knob, and the overlooks around Mount Mitchell. Each offers unique perspectives of the Appalachian Mountains.
You might spot white-tailed deer, black bears, wild turkeys, and various bird species. Keep a safe distance and never feed the wildlife.
Yes, there are many designated picnic areas with tables and grills located at various overlooks and recreation areas along the Blue Ridge Parkway (BRP). They are perfect for a scenic lunch break.
Popular hikes include the trails around Linville Falls, the hike to the summit of Mount Mitchell, and the trails at Craggy Gardens. The Mountains-to-Sea Trail also runs along much of the parkway, offering longer backpacking opportunities.
Yes, there are several campgrounds along the Blue Ridge Parkway (BRP) operated by the National Park Service. Some offer basic amenities, while others are more primitive. Reservations are often recommended, especially during peak season.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Dining options directly on the Blue Ridge Parkway (BRP) are limited. You'll find a few restaurants at historic lodges like The Peaks of Otter Lodge and the Skyland Resort. It's best to pack snacks and plan meals in nearby towns.
Grocery stores and general supplies are typically found in towns located off the parkway. Plan to stock up before you get on the road, as services are sparse along the route.
Absolutely! Bringing your own food for a picnic is highly encouraged. There are numerous scenic picnic areas with tables and grills available.
Towns near the Blue Ridge Parkway (BRP) offer a range of dining, from casual diners and cafes to local Appalachian cuisine and breweries. Check local listings for specific recommendations.
Some lodges offer dining with scenic views. Additionally, exploring the small towns off the parkway can lead to discovering local bakeries, farmers' markets, and regional specialties.
📸 📸 Photography
The Blue Ridge Parkway (BRP) is a photographer's dream! Iconic spots include the Linn Cove Viaduct, Grandfather Mountain, and overlooks during sunrise and sunset. Don't forget Mabry Mill for historical shots and Craggy Gardens for floral landscapes.
Golden hours – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for landscape photography on the Blue Ridge Parkway (BRP). Midday can be harsh, but still offers great views.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing expansive vistas. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions and long exposures.
Generally, photography is allowed at overlooks and trailheads. However, be mindful of private property and any specific park regulations. Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas.
Each season offers unique photographic opportunities. Spring brings wildflowers, summer offers lush greenery, fall explodes with color, and winter provides dramatic, stark landscapes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Road Trippers
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Planning Your Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip
When planning, remember that services are limited. Gas stations and restrooms are few and far between, so it's essential to fuel up your vehicle and use facilities whenever you see them. Cell service is also unreliable, so downloading offline maps and information beforehand is highly recommended.
Hiking and Trails Along the Parkway
For those seeking a more strenuous challenge, the trails in Mount Mitchell State Park lead to the highest peak east of the Mississippi River, providing breathtaking panoramic views. The Mountains-to-Sea Trail also traverses significant portions of the parkway, offering opportunities for longer day hikes or even backpacking trips for the more adventurous. Always wear appropriate footwear, carry water, and be aware of changing weather conditions, especially at higher elevations.
Experiencing the Blue Ridge Parkway in Fall
However, this beauty comes with crowds. Expect significant traffic, especially on weekends, and book accommodations well in advance. Consider visiting on weekdays to avoid the busiest periods. Even with the crowds, the experience of driving through the colorful mountains, stopping at overlooks, and taking short hikes is well worth it. Remember to check the Blue Ridge fall color reports closer to your travel dates for the most accurate timing.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit