visit blue ridge parkway

• New? Start Here
• Asheville NC
• Bryson City NC
• Burnsville NC
• Cherokee NC
• Hendersonville NC
• Lake Junaluska NC
• Lake Lure NC
• Maggie Valley NC
• Waynesville NC
• Banner Elk NC
• Beech Mountain NC
• Blowing Rock NC
• Blue Ridge Mountains – Discover the Beauty
• Blue Ridge Parkway
• Chimney Rock State Park
• Fall Forecast
• Grandfather Mountain
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park
• Hiking Trails
• Pisgah National Forest
• Scenic Drives
• Swimming Holes
• Wheelchair/Disabled Accessible Waterfalls
• Attractions

Biltmore Estate

• Fontana Dam
• Ghost Town in the Sky Maggie Valley NC
• Land of Oz Theme Park
• Linville Caverns, NC
• Mountain Roller Coasters
• Tweetsie Railroad
• Partner With Us

Blue Ridge Mountain Life contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these Amazon links, we may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. See our Disclosure Policy for more information .

The Ultimate Blue Ridge Parkway Travel Guide (2024)

The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country.  The Parkway travels for 469 Miles from The Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to the Cherokee Indian Reservation in NC.  

The Parkway weaves its way along some of the highest ridges and mountains in North Carolina and is known for its incredible scenic views.  The highest point is located near Waynesville, NC at Milepost 431 where the elevation is 6,053 feet.

Traveling along the parkway, you'll venture through many tunnels, have the opportunity to stop at many overlooks and see wildflowers, wildlife, and waterfalls . There are also numerous hiking trails along the parkway to explore, as well as historic structures. 

As you venture along the Blue Ridge Parkway, you'll also pass nearby to many wonderful small mountain towns that we highly recommend visiting and exploring as well.

This Blue Ridge Parkway Guide will give you a full tour of this beautiful, historic and magnificent scenic drive .

Updated: 3/13/2024

Blue Ridge Parkway History

The Blue Ridge Parkway was part of  The New Deal instituted by President Franklin D. Roosevelt and Congress.  The New Deal was designed to provide work for those unemployed and poor as a result of The Great Depression.

 Construction on the Parkway began on September 11, 1935, near Cumberland Knob in North Carolina.  The Parkway was completed 52 years later near Linn Cove Viaduct , which runs around Grandfather Mountain .

The Parkway itself, especially Linn Cove Viaduct, is an American engineering marvel.  The parkway winds its way along the mountain ridges, through mountain valleys (often called Gaps along the Parkway) and over and around many of the tallest peaks in the Blue Ridge Mountains .

Engineers also designed the Parkway to have a minimal impact the mountains and to be barely visible from lower elevations.   Tunnels were often used to avoid damaging mountains and causing large "scars".   North Carolina contains 25 tunnels and there is 1 in Virginia.

Blue Ridge Parkway Map

A Blue Ridge Parkway map is an essential tool for planning a trip along the Parkway. The map shows the Parkway's entire route, as well as all of the attractions, facilities, and services that are located along the way.  

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a beautiful and scenic road that offers a variety of things to see and do. With the help of the Blue Ridge Parkway map, you can plan your perfect trip along the Parkway.

Where does the Blue Ridge Parkway start and end you wonder?  Milepost 469 is in Cherokee NC, near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park .  The Parkway begins at Milepost 0 in Rockfish Gap, Virginia, where it intersects Interstate 64 and Skyline Drive, which winds 105 miles through Shenandoah National Park

How long is the Blue Ridge Parkway?   The Blue Ridge Parkway is 469 miles long and travels through North Carolina and Virginia.

Access Points and Blue Ridge Parkway Entrances

There are many Blue Ridge Parkway access points and entrances, but no direct interchanges to interstate highways on the Parkway.

Engineers developed small side roads that serve as access points to various NC highways. The Parkway has many access points along many large and smaller roads in Virginia and North Carolina. Most would probably consider some of these to be trails and not roads.

There are a number of different "major entrances" where the Parkway crosses larger roads in larger towns and cities. Their entrances are where most people enter.  

These main Blue Ridge Parkway entrances are:

Rockfish Gap (Northern End of the Parkway)

Rockfish Gap is accessible via Virginia Interstate 64 from Staunton, Charlottesville, and Richmond VA. Rockfish Gap is Exit 99. Rockfish Gap is also the southernmost access point for Skyline Drive.

Roanoke, VA - Highway 220

From Roanoke, VA, take Interstate 581/220 to Milepost 121 on the Parkway. The Parkway is about 5 miles from Roanoke.

Fancy Gap, VA - Interstate 77

There is no direct interchange between the Parkway and Interstate 77, although the Parkway crosses I77. To access the Parkway from I77, take Exit 8 to Highway 52 and follow the signs to the Parkway. You'll enter the parkway at Milepost 199.

Deep Gap, NC - Highway 421 - Near Boone and Blowing Rock

The Blue Ridge Parkway Boone NC is accessible to both Boone and Blowing Rock at MP 291.8 off US 321/221. From Boone, take highway 321 South about 5 miles. From Blowing Rock, take highway 321 North about 1 mile.

Linville, NC - Interstate 40 and Highway 221

Traveling west on Interstate 40, towards Asheville NC, the easiest Parkway access is via Highway 221 towards Linville NC.   Take exit 86 off I-40 (Large Love's Travel Stop is there). Take 226, then 221 towards Marion, NC. Distance to MP317.5 on the Parkway is about 26 miles.

You can also take 226 off 221 and catch the Parkway at MP330.9 in Spruce Pine. Highway 226 in this area is pretty narrow and a very winding road.

Asheville, NC - Interstate 40

Photo by: Mandy Janney Gallimore, Making Memories Photography

Asheville NC has several Blue Ridge Parkway Access points:

• Alt-74 to MP384.7  - From I40, take exit 52 to Bat Cave.  Less than half a mile after exiting you'll go under the Parkway and the Parkway access road will be on your right.
• US25 (Hendersonville Rd) - US25 is the road to the Biltmore Estate entrance. From I40, take exit 50A, and go south on US25. The Parkway access road is about 3 miles south of I-40.
• I-26 - From I-26, take exit 33 to US 191 (Brevard Rd). Take US191 South. The Parkway access is about 3 miles down US191. Just watch for the signs.

Access points for Asheville to the Blue Ridge Parkway are always close by, as the Parkway runs right through Asheville.

Waynesville, NC - Highway 74/23

From Waynesville NC , head towards Sylva on Highway 74/23/441. The Parkway access road will be on the right about 4.5 miles after leaving Waynesville. This will bring you onto the Parkway at MP 443.1.

Maggie Valley, NC - Highway 19

From Maggie Valley NC , head west on Highway 19 towards Cherokee NC. The Parkway entrance is about 4 miles past Ghost Town in the Sky . This access point will bring you onto the Parkway at MP 455.7.

See our Maggie Valley NC Guide for more information!

Cherokee, NC (Southern end of the Parkway)

Cherokee, NC is the southern end of The Blue Ridge Parkway where the Parkway connects with Highway 441 for access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. From Cherokee, take US 441 towards the Great Smoky Mountains National Park . Just prior to reaching the Oconoluftee Visitors Center , you'll see the Parkway entrance on your right. Just watch for the signs. Milepost 469.1.

Blue Ridge Parkway Closures

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a popular tourist destination and a very busy road. This can lead to closures, either due to weather or construction.

Weather-related closures

The Blue Ridge Parkway is located in a mountainous region, so it is susceptible to weather-related closures. Snowstorms, ice storms, and flooding can all lead to closures. In the winter, the Parkway is often closed due to snow and ice. In the spring, the Parkway can be closed due to flooding.

Construction-related closures

The Blue Ridge Parkway is also a work in progress. There are always projects underway to improve the Parkway, and these projects can lead to closures. Construction-related closures are typically short-term, but they can be disruptive.

How to check for closures

The best way to check for closures is to visit the National Park Service website or call the Parkway's traffic hotline at 828-298-0398. You can also check the Parkway's Twitter account for updates.

What should you do if the Parkway is closed?

If the Parkway is closed, there are a few things you can do. First, you can check the website of the Parkway or call the traffic hotline to see if they expect the closure to last for a long time. If you expect the closure to last for a long time, you might reroute your trip. If the closure is expected to last for a short time, you might choose to wait until it reopens.

If you decide to wait out the closure, you can visit one of the Parkway's many visitor centers. You can also hike or bike one of the Parkway's many trails. If you are looking for a place to stay, there are many hotels and motels located near the Parkway.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a beautiful and scenic road, but it is important to be aware of the possibility of closures. By checking for closures before you go, you can avoid disappointment and have a safe and enjoyable trip.

Our Parkway Travel Tips

We've traveled various sections of The Blue Ridge Parkway more times than we can count over the past 16 years. We've traveled with family members, in groups of multiple cars, with young kids, and with no kids.  

We've also driven during all four seasons. As a result, we have lots of helpful tips to help you on your Blue Ridge Parkway road trip :

• Plan your trip - The Blue Ridge Parkway is a long drive, so it's important to plan your trip ahead of time. Decide how long you want to spend on the Parkway, and what you want to see and do.
• Drive slowly - The speed limit on the Parkway is 45 mph, and for good reason. The Parkway is a winding road with stunning views, and it's important to take your time and enjoy the scenery.
• Be prepared for wildlife - The Parkway is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, bears, Elk, and coyotes. Be sure to be on the lookout for animals when driving, and never feed or approach wildlife.
• Stop often - There are many overlooks and scenic areas along the Parkway, so be sure to stop often and enjoy the views.
• Get out and explore - The Blue Ridge Parkway is more than just a scenic drive. There are plenty of opportunities to get out and explore, including hiking, biking, fishing, and camping.
• Plan for all types of weather - The weather can change quickly in the mountains, so be sure to pack for all types of weather conditions.
• Show respect  - The Parkway is a national park , so be sure to be respectful of the park and its resources. Pack out what you pack in, and leave no trace .

For more tips, visit our Blue Ridge Parkway tips page!

Blue Ridge Parkway Guides

As locals living in the Waynesville and Maggie Valley NC area, we have easy access to some of the most beautiful sections of the Blue Ridge Parkway. We love going out after work and on the weekends, and just driving on the Parkway and enjoying all of the great things to see and do.   

To help you get more out of your Blue Ridge Parkway road trip, here are all of our Blue Ridge Parkway Guides:

14+ Best Waterfalls on the Blue Ridge Parkway

Top 18 Blue Ridge Parkway Hiking Trails

Blue Ridge Parkway – Top 22 Best Stops for Fall Color

Blue Ridge Parkway Travel Tips

Is it better to go north or south on the Blue Ridge Parkway?

A common question we get asked about the Blue Ridge Parkway is: Is it better to go north or south on the Blue Ridge Parkway?

Honestly, it doesn't matter. It's better to start your Blue Ridge Parkway road trip at whichever end or access point is closest for you to get to. Milepost 469 is on the southern end of the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina. Milepost 0 is on the north end of the blue ridge parkway in Virginia.

The scenery is beautiful regardless of which way you travel, and the overlooks, sights, and attractions are all identical regardless of which way you travel.

Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Centers

The Blue Ridge Parkway has several visitor centers along its complete route that provide information, exhibits, resources for visitors, and restroom facilities.

Here are a few popular visitor centers on the Blue Ridge Parkway:

• Humpback Rocks Visitor Center (Virginia) -  Located near milepost 5.8 in Virginia, the Humpback Rocks Visitor Center offers information on the parkway's history, culture, and natural features. It also serves as a gateway to the Humpback Rocks Recreation Area, which includes a historic farm exhibit and hiking trails.
• Peaks of Otter Visitor Center (Virginia) -  Situated near milepost 86 in Virginia, the Peaks of Otter Visitor Center is nestled amidst the picturesque Peaks of Otter. It provides information about the area's wildlife, flora, and recreational opportunities. The visitor center serves as a starting point for hikes and offers access to the nearby Abbott Lake and Sharp Top Mountain.
• Linville Falls Visitor Center (North Carolina) -  near milepost 317 in North Carolina, the Linville Falls Visitor Center is a hub for exploring the popular Linville Falls area. It offers exhibits on the geology and natural history of the region and provides guidance for hiking trails that lead to stunning waterfalls.
• Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center at Asheville (North Carolina) -  Found near milepost 384 in North Carolina, the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center at Asheville serves as a comprehensive resource for visitors. It offers exhibits, information on parkway attractions, maps, and a gift shop. The visitor center is conveniently located near Asheville, a vibrant city with its own range of amenities and attractions.

Important to note is that Visitor Centers are only open during peak season and closed during the winter months.

Things to do on the Blue Ridge Parkway, by Milepost

Rhododendron on the Blue Ridge Parkway

When many people think of the parkway, they think of a beautiful, serene and quiet drive through the upper elevations of the Blue Ridge Mountains.  Well, they're right, as traveling the parkway is all of this and more.  

The Parkway is more than just a beautiful road you can drive on.   

Throughout its 469 miles, there are tons of hiking trails, overlooks, places of interest, visitors centers, waterfalls and more.

In fact, there is so much to do, it would be near impossible for us to cover it all, but we'll definitely hit on some highlights. Mileposts, which are small stones to the side of the road with mile marker numbers on them, mark locations on the Parkway.

One highlight of traveling on the Blue Ridge Parkway is exploring the many overlooks. These overlooks allow you to see incredible scenic views and other areas of interest and also provide a great place to stop and rest. You can even have a picnic!   

Below we highlight many things to do on the Blue Ridge Parkway, including many of the most popular Blue Ridge Parkway Overlooks. Here is a detailed listing, by milepost:

MP 469.1 - Cherokee and The Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Lots to do in both of these areas: attractions, hiking, scenic drives , Elk, fishing ... you name it.  Cherokee is also the location for Harrah's Casino, a very popular attraction and travel destination for people all around the world. Be sure to visit Mingo Falls while you're there.

MP 458.2 - Heintooga/Balsam Mountain Rd

The Blue Ridge Parkway has a number of side or spur roads.   Balsam Mountain Road takes you past mile high campground, a few gorgeous overlooks, and into the Great Smoky Mountain National Park .  

You'll pass the Masonic Marker as well.  At the end of the road, you can find the trailhead for Flat Creek Trail and the entrance to Heintooge Round Bottom Road .

MP 455.7 - Soco Gap/Maggie Valley, NC

The Parkway crosses over Highway 19 at Soco Gap, providing access to Cherokee NC and Maggie Valley , NC. Drive south on Highway 19 towards Cherokee on Highway 19 to Soco Falls , a real hidden gem and one of our favorite NC waterfalls . 

MP451.2 - Waterrock Knob

Waterrock Knob, Blue Ridge Parkway

Nearly 6,000 feet in elevation, the area provides beautiful sunset and sunrise views, and throughout the day, under clear conditions, provides fantastic views of the surrounding mountains. There is also a small visitors' center, parking lot and a fairly steep trail to the top of "the knob". A gorgeous place to see both sunsets and sunrises.

MP422.4  Devil's Courthouse

This is a popular overlook and hiking location.  The overlook provides great views of the surrounding mountains, and in particular of Devil's Courthouse and its rocky face.   You can also hike the trail up the top.

MP 443.1: US 74/23 Waynesville NC

The parkway crosses over US 74/23 here, and offers access to Waynesville NC , Sylva, and Dillsboro, NC.  Western Carolina University is in nearby Cullowhee. Waynesville is a great little town and offers a more rural location than larger Asheville, NC.  

Downtown Waynesville is a popular tourist location because of its "old-fashioned feel" and many unique stores and restaurants.  Waynesville is also home to Barber Orchard , a fantastic apple orchard. Stop in Waynesville NC , visit downtown Winchester Creek Farm and have dinner at The Sweet Onion restaurant .

MP 431.4 Richland Balsam Overlook

The Highest point on the Parkway at 6, 047 feet. There is also a 1.5-mile loop trail leading to the summit of Richland Balsam.

MP 430  Cowee Mountains Overlook

Cowee Mountain Overlook

This overlook provides beautiful mountain views at an elevation of 5,950 feet. It is one of the most popular places for photographers to take sunset photos.

MP 420.2 Black Balsam

Hiking over two bald mountains at elevations over 6,000 feet. Offers stunning and unique views of The Blue Ridge Mountains. See our guide to Black Balsam for more information!

Black Balsam

MP 418.8 - Graveyard Fields

One of our favorite places on the Parkway. Graveyard fields offers unique vegetation, hiking trails and waterfalls and absolutely gorgeous colors in fall. Graveyard Fields is one of the first areas on the parkway to turn.

Fall colors at Graveyard Fields

MP 417 - Looking Glass Rock Overlook

Fall Colors at Looking Glass Rock Overlook

One of the best places to see the beautiful, and unique Looking Glass Rock. But that's not why we're mentioning this overlook. The Looking Glass Rock Overlook is also the location of the trailhead to what was one of our favorite waterfall areas and swimming holes .  

Unfortunately,  Skinny Dip Falls was the victim of severe flooding in 2021, and the Falls, as most knew them, are now gone. The area was significantly affected and not the same as it was.

MP 412 - US 276 crossing

US276 through Pisgah National Forest , and between Waynesville NC and Brevard, NC crosses the parkway here. Nearby on US276 are Looking Glass Falls , Sliding Rock and Dupont State Forest .

MP 409.6 Fryingpan Mountain Lookout Tower

A 1.5-mile round-trip hike offers access to Fryingpan tower, a fire watchtower built in the 40s by the National Park Service.   The tower offers gorgeous, high elevation scenic views. The tower is locked, but you can climb the stairs for a better view.

MP 408 - Mount Pisgah and the Pisgah Inn

Scenic views, hiking trails, Pisgah Inn , and camping make this location along the parkway very popular. The location contains two main trails, one to the top of Mount Pisgah and another called "Shut-in" trail. Shut-in trail is a 16-mile trail that is part of a much larger trail created by George Vanderbilt for hunting parties.

MP 388.8: US 25 crossing -  Biltmore Estate

Located just a short drive north along US25 is the entrance to Biltmore Estate.  This is also a really nice and historic area of Asheville.

MP 384  - Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center

The Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center in Asheville is at Milepost 384 on the Parkway. It is open year-round and offers a variety of exhibits, programs, and services for visitors.

The visitor center has a large main exhibit hall that tells the story of the Blue Ridge Parkway, from its creation to its present day. There are also several smaller exhibits on topics such as the Parkway's natural history, its cultural history, and its recreational opportunities.

The visitor center offers a variety of programs throughout the year, including ranger-led talks, films, and guided walks. There is also a Junior Ranger program for children.

The visitor center has a gift shop that sells books, maps, souvenirs, and other Parkway-related items. There is also a restaurant that serves lunch and snacks.

The Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center is a great place to learn about the Parkway and to plan your trip. It is also a great place to relax and enjoy the view of the mountains.

MP 364.4 Craggy Gardens Visitor Center

Craggy Gardens

One of our favorite locations, with beautiful views and hiking trails. Craggy Gardens is one of our favorite family hiking destinations . There is a nice visitor center here with a gift shop, information and a restroom. There is also a very nice picnic area here as well, along with several nice hiking trails.

MP 362.1 Glassmine Falls

The 200-foot tall waterfall, Glassmine falls is visible from this overlook. Make sure you visit after a rain when it's flowing the strongest.

MP 355.4 Mount Mitchell

Take a drive up the tallest mountain in North Carolina and east of the Mississippi River at 6,684 feet.

MP 339.5  Crabtree Falls

Take the 3-mile hike out to this beautiful 70-foot tall waterfall.  See photos and learn more in our Crabtree Falls Guide .

Crabtree Falls is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful waterfalls on the Parkway, and in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

MP 344 - Little Switzerland

A neat, small little town with a little shopping, food, and gas. Located nearby are Grassy Creek Falls, and Emerald Village , neat historical mining areas just 3 miles off the parkway.

MP 328.3 - The Orchard at Altapass

A 100+ year old Apple Orchard , that has been turned into a cultural center. There is always something going on here, spring, summer and fall. Music, dancing, crafts and there are lots to eat!

MP 324.8 - Bear Den Campground

A private campground located off the parkway a bit. We have some very fond memories of camping here with our kids. Large campground, with plenty of room for big RVs. They have a camp store, fishing pond, playground equipment for the kids, and a few hiking trails. One leads out to a really pretty waterfall.

Visit their website for more information.

MP 317.4 US 221 Crossing

Just south of here is Linville Caverns, one of the few underground caverns in NC. We've been there many times and always enjoy it.

Warning: it's often crowded in the summer months and on weekends.

MP 316.3 - Linville Falls

Linville Falls

Beautiful waterfalls, and two hiking trails (one that's really easy) make for a great place to stop.  

Linville Falls is one of our favorite NC waterfalls and is a great family-friendly location for hiking. See our Linville Falls guide for lots of photos, trail information, and more.

MP 302.8 - Rough Ridge

Rough Ridge, Photo by: Making Memories Photography

Hike out Tanawha trail along a 1/3 mile long boardwalk that runs across the top of Rocky Ridge. This hike offers outstanding views of the Blue Ridge and of The Parkway and Linn Cove Viaduct.

MP 304.4 - Linn Cove Viaduct

Be sure and drive across this iconic section and engineering marvel of The Blue Ridge Parkway. When people think of the parkway, the Linn Cove Viaduct comes to mind. Linn Cove Viaduct was the last portion of the Parkway. 

See our complete guide to Linn Cove Viaduct .

MP 305 -  Grandfather Mountain

Take 221 to reach this famous NC Mountain and be sure and drive to the top and walk across the "mile high bridge" for stunning views. Lots of camping and hiking trails in the area as well.

Grandfather Mountain is one of our favorite places to visit in the high country!

MP 295 - 298 Julian Price Memorial Park

Hiking, picnicking, camping and trails all around this beautiful mountain lake. Excellent photo spot. This park was the retreat for a former insurance executive.

MP 292 - to 295 -  Moses Cone Memorial Park

Return to the Gilded Age. This park was the home and estate of the famous "Denim King" Moses H. Cone and his wife Bertha. Today, it is a park where you can go hiking, ride on horse trails, and visit their home, Flat Top Manor.  

MP 291.9 - US 321 Crossing

Head north on 321 for 7 miles to Boone, NC and south on 321 for 2 miles to Blowing Rock, NC . You'll find Tweetsie Railroad here.

MP 271.9 - Cascade Falls

Take the .8 mile loop trail out to Cascade Falls and back. Cascade falls is over 250 feet.

MP 258.6 - Northwest Trading Post

Gift shop and resting stop. Offers various crafts from North Carolina's northwestern counties. Closed from November to April.

MP 238.5 to 244.7 - Doughton Park

This 7,000-acre park offers hiking, picnic spots , and camping. The park also features a few historic buildings and locations. The park is a popular location to see wildlife, especially deer. During the winter, it's a great location to cross-country ski.

MP 238.5 - Brinegar Cabin

The northern gateway to Doughton Park, this historic cabin, was built in 1880 by Martin Brinegar. The cabin contains a loom that is over 100 years old and used for craft demonstrations during the summer. Two trails for Doughton Park, Cedar Ridge Trail (4.3 miles) and Bluff Mountain Trail (7.5 miles) both begin here.

MP 217.5 - Cumberland Knob Visitor Center

Here is where it all began. Cumberland Knob was where the construction of the parkway began in 1935. Restrooms, picnic area, and water. There are two trails here, one a short hike to Cumberland Knob, the other a longer hike to Gully Creek Gorge.

MP 216.9 NC/Virginia State Line

Mp 213 - blue ridge music center, galax va.

Learn about the history of Blue Ridge Mountain music and see performances. Learn more on their website .

MP 189.9 - Puckett Cabin

Visit the last home of Orlean Hawks Puckett (1844-1939). Ms. Puckett was a midwife who delivered more than 1,000 babies between 1890 - 1939.

MP 188.8 - Groundhog Mountain

Observation tower, picnic area, restrooms, and scenic views.

MP 176.1 - Mabry Mill

By Gary Boyd - https://www.flickr.com/photos/garyboyd/4881901781

Another iconic Parkway location. E.B. Mabry ran Mabry Mill between 1910 and 1935. A short trail leads youth to this historic and beautiful gristmill, sawmill, and blacksmith shop. During the summer months, old crafting skills are demonstrated in the summer and fall. This mill is a feature of many very famous photos.  

A definite "must stop" location along the parkway.

MP167 - Rocky Knob

Considered by many to be one of the roughest areas of the Blue Ridge Parkway, Rocky Knob offers: camping, hiking, mountain ridges, and spring wildflowers and rhododendrons.

Rocky Knob has a visitor's center and a 72-site picnic area.

MP 154 - The Trail Cabin/Smart View

Nice 3-mile loop hiking trail, 1890s historic cabin, and scenic views.

MP120.4 - Roanoke Mountain

Take a scenic 4-mile one-way loop road over Roanoke Mountain. You'll be rewarded with stunning views of Roanoke, Roanoke Valley, and Mill Mountain.  

There are picnic areas, hiking and hiking trails in this area. The huge neon star, often associated with Roanoke, sits on top of Mill Mountain.

MP 85.9 - Peaks of Otter

Named for 3 peaks, Sharp Top, Flat Top, and Harkening Hill, this location has hiking trails, scenic vistas, camping, picnic areas, cultural displays, and a restaurant and lodge. A nice location to watch the sunrise.

MP 63.6 - James River Visitor Center

Location of a water canal along the James river completed in 1851. Visitors can see on the restored lift locks, of the original 90. There is a visitor center, campground, picnic area, restaurant, gift shop and fishing dock.

MP 34.4 - The Yankee Horse Ridge

Features old narrow-gauge railroad track that was once part of the Irish Creek Railway, a logging railroad. Old logging exhibits are also here for visitors to see.

MP 5 - Humpback Rocks

Features old farm buildings from the 1800s. During the summer, visitors can see many history demonstrations and crafting activities.

MP 0 - Rockfish Gap

Marks the Northern Entrance to The Parkway and the connector to Virginia's Skyline Drive .

Blue Ridge Parkway FAQ

We get lots of questions about the Blue Ridge Parkway both via our inbox and on Facebook. Here are some answers to the most common questions asked about the Blue Ridge Parkway

Where does the Blue Ridge Parkway start and stop?

The north end of the Blue Ridge Parkway starts at the southern portion of the Shenandoah National Park in Virginia at Milepost 0 and runs southward for approximately 469 miles to the southern end of the parkway at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina at Milepost 469. 

How long does it take to drive the Blue Ridge Parkway?

How long it takes to drive the Blue Ridge Parkway can vary depending on a number of factors such as time of year (read this as traffic), weather conditions, and the number of stops you make along the way.

On average, it takes about three days to drive the entire length of the parkway if you're traveling at a moderate pace and making occasional stops to admire the views and explore attractions.

However, many visitors choose to spend more time driving the Parkway, taking several days or even a week to fully enjoy the scenic beauty and all of the wonderful attractions along the route.

What is the prettiest section fo the Blue Ridge Parkway?

The entire Blue Ridge Parkway has many pretty sections, and picking just one is difficult, as the various sections and locations are all very unique.  However, based on our numerous travels on the Blue Ridge Parkway over the years, we feel the section from Asheville NC to Maggie Valley NC is the prettiest section of the Blue Ridge Parkway due to the long distance and high elevation views it offers.

With that being said, we also really enjoy the section from Asheville NC to Boone NC , which contains the famous Linn Cove Viaduct along with some rocky terrain and incredible views around Grandfather Mountain .

Where do you enter the Blue Ridge Parkway?

The Blue Ridge Parkway doesn't have any one single entry point, but many access points all along it's 469 mile total length.

Here are some popular entry points for the Blue Ridge Parkway:

• Shenandoah National Park Entrance - The northernmost access point to the Blue Ridge Parkway is located in Virginia at the southern end of Shenandoah National Park. You can enter the parkway from Skyline Drive, which runs through Shenandoah National Park.
• Rockfish Gap Entrance - Another entry point in Virginia is at Rockfish Gap, near Afton VA. This is where the southern terminus of Skyline Drive intersects with the Blue Ridge Parkway.
• Boone, North Carolina - Boone NC is a popular destination, that provides access to the Blue Ridge Parkway from Highway 321 south of Boone.   From Boone, you can go north or south on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
• Asheville, North Carolina -  If you're approaching from the south, you can enter the Blue Ridge Parkway near Asheville, North Carolina. This is a common starting point for many visitors.
• Other Access Points - The parkway has numerous access points throughout its course, including intersections with major highways, state roads, and scenic overlooks. These entry points allow you to join the parkway at various locations depending on your preferences and travel plans.

It's worth noting that the Blue Ridge Parkway is a continuous road, so once you enter at any of these access points, you can drive along its entire length without needing to exit until you reach the other end at either the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina or Rockfish Gap in Virginia.

What is the Blue Ridge Parkway known for?

The Blue Ridge Parkway is known for many different things, but mostly for its stunning long range views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.  Here are just a few of the key reasons the Parkway is popular and well known:

• Breathtaking Scenery -  The parkway offers unparalleled views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, showcasing rolling hills, lush forests, and panoramic views. Visitors can enjoy a range of scenic landscapes throughout their journey.
• Fall Foliage - The Blue Ridge Parkway is especially famous for its vibrant fall colors. During the fall season, the mountainsides come alive with a brilliant display of red, orange, and gold foliage, attracting tourists from around the world.
• Outdoor Recreation - The parkway provides numerous opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, picnicking, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing. There are numerous hiking trails , campgrounds , and recreational areas to explore along the route.
• Cultural Heritage - The Blue Ridge Parkway celebrates the cultural heritage of the region. It features historic sites, museums, and interpretive centers that highlight the traditions, history, and craftsmanship of the Appalachian people.
• Scenic Drives - The parkway itself is renowned for being a scenic drive. Its winding road and well-designed overlooks allow visitors to experience the beauty of the mountains and valleys from the comfort of their vehicles.
• Wildlife - The Blue RidgeParkway is home to a diverse range of wildlife species. Visitors may spot white-tailed deer, black bears , elk , wild turkeys, and various bird species while exploring the parkway.

Is the Blue Ridge Parkway worth it?

Answer yes would be an understatement.  The Blue Ridge Parkway is literally one of the most beautiful scenic drives in the world.   Travelers will see things they never though possible.  

The Blue Ridge Parkway is definitely worth visiting and for many reasons:

• Stunning Scenery - The parkway provides awe-inspiring views of mountains, valleys, forests, and meadows. The changing landscapes, especially during the fall foliage season, are a visual delight.
• Outdoor Activities - The parkway offers a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, cycling, and wildlife spotting. There are numerous trails and recreational areas to explore, allowing you to connect with nature and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
• Cultural and Historical Sites - Along the parkway, you'll find historic sites, museums, and interpretive centers that provide insight into the region's rich cultural heritage. You can learn about the traditions, crafts, and history of the Appalachian people.
• Scenic Drives and Picnic Spots - The parkway itself is designed to maximize the scenic experience. Driving along its winding road is a pleasure, and there are plenty of well-placed overlooks and picnic spots where you can take a break, enjoy the views, and have a picnic.
• Wildlife and Birdwatching - The parkway is home to diverse wildlife species, including deer, bears, birds, and more. It presents opportunities for wildlife observation and birdwatching, allowing you to appreciate the natural biodiversity of the area.
• Relaxation and Recreation - The Blue Ridge Parkway provides a peaceful and serene environment away from the hustle and bustle of city life. It offers a chance to unwind, rejuvenate, and enjoy the beauty of nature at your own pace.

What is the most photographed place on the Blue Ridge Parkway?

While there are numerous places along the Blue Ridge Parkway that are commonly photographed, one location stands out the most, as the most photographed place on the Blue Ridge Parkway.  This location is on the bucket list of nearly every photographer.   That location is Linn Cove Viaduct around Grandfather Mountain.

Linn Cove Viaduct is the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway location, and captures all that is wonderful about the parkway, including long distance views, towering mountains, and incredible engineering.

Are there bathrooms along the Blue Ridge Parkway?

Yes, there are bathroom facilities available along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Throughout the entire length of the parkway, you'll find restrooms located at various visitor centers, campgrounds, picnic areas, and some of the larger overlooks. These facilities provide restroom facilities for park visitors and are typically well-maintained.

It's important to note though that restroom availability may vary at different times of the year or due to maintenance activities. It's advisable to plan your stops and utilize restroom facilities whenever they are available along the parkway.   

Also, distances between restrooms may be long, depending on where you are traveling the parkway.

Visitor centers and facilities tend to have more comprehensive amenities, including restrooms, information services, and sometimes even food options.

What is the best entrance to the Blue Ridge Parkway?

There is not single best entrance to the Blue Ridge Park for everyone.  The "best" entrance will vary depending on your needs and factors such as your starting location, personal preferences, and the specific Blue Ridge Parkway attractions you wish to visit and see. 

Where is the best view of the Blue Ridge Mountains?

The Blue Ridge Mountains offer numerous breathtaking and incredible views throughout their entire range. The "best" iew is a bit subjective, BUT here are a few of our personal favorite locations along the Blue Ridge Parkway that are renowned by many for their stunning long distance view of the mountains:

• Waterrock Knob (North Carolina) - Located near milepost 451.2, Waterrock Knob is one of the highest points on the parkway in North Carolina. It features a visitor center and a short trail that leads to the summit, where you can enjoy panoramic vistas of the mountain range. The sweeping views from Waterrock Knob make it a popular spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.  It is very popular for both sunsets and sunrises.
• Black Balsam Knob (North Carolina) -  Located near milepost 420 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, Black Balsam Knob provides panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. It's a popular spot for hikers and photographers, offering unobstructed vistas and the opportunity to witness stunning sunrises and sunsets.
• Craggy Gardens (North Carolina): Situated near milepost 364, Craggy Gardens offers captivating views, particularly during the blooming season of the rhododendrons in late spring. The rugged peaks and vibrant wildflowers create a picturesque setting that's cherished by visitors.
• Rough Ridge (North Carolina): Found near milepost 302, Rough Ridge features a short hike that rewards you with breathtaking views of the mountains. The elevated boardwalk takes you to a rocky outcrop, allowing you to soak in the stunning vistas of the surrounding peaks.
• Grandfather Mountain (North Carolina): While not directly on the Blue Ridge Parkway, Grandfather Mountain is a nearby attraction worth visiting for its awe-inspiring views. It features an iconic mile-high swinging bridge and various overlooks that provide stunning vistas of the rugged peaks and deep valleys.
• The Pinnacles (Virginia): Located near milepost 35, The Pinnacles is known for its dramatic rock formations and captivating views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It offers a unique perspective of the mountains and the surrounding landscape.

These are just a few examples, and there are numerous other viewpoints along the Blue Ridge Parkway that offer incredible vistas. 

What is the famous curve on the Blue Ridge Parkway?

The famous curve on the Blue Ridge Parkway is called Linn Cove Viaduct . 

Linn Cove Viaduct is an engineering marvel that wraps around the slopes of Grandfather Mountain in North Carolina. It is located near milepost 304 on the parkway. 

The viaduct is a unique, elevated roadway that was designed to minimize environmental impact by hugging the mountain contours rather than disrupting the natural landscape. The viaduct offers stunning views of the surrounding scenery and is often celebrated for its architectural beauty and seamless integration with the mountainous terrain.

The Linn Cove Viaduct has become an iconic symbol of the Blue Ridge Parkway and is a popular attraction for visitors and photographers.

Another popular curve is located in Grandfather Mountain not far from the Parkway, called Forrest Gump Curve.  This famous curve on the road leading up to the top of Grandfather Mountain was featured in the movie Forrest Gump, when he was running across the county.

Larry Deane

About the author

Larry Deane is co-owner of Blue Ridge Mountain Life. He has spent more than 20 years exploring the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains and has a deep passion for nature, history, storytelling, and adventure. Along with his wife Jenn, they combined these passions to create Blue Ridge Mountain Life, a travel guide to these stunning mountains they are fortunate to call home. Larry has more than 20 years of experience as a writer and journalist, and has established himself as a leading voice and expert for Blue Ridge Mountains. He is also an avid hiker, photographer, and videographer. He loves sharing his mountain adventures and knowledge with more than 500,000 people per month on Blue Ridge Mountain Life.

Want to learn more?

Check out these articles below

Orchard at Altapass – Blue Ridge Parkway

20+ best hiking trails near waynesville nc, wildflower trails – the best in the blue ridge mountains, little bradley falls nc.

15 Places You Must Visit on the Blue Ridge Parkway | Interactive Map + Why to Visit

By Jason Barnette | Travel writer and photographer with 15+ years of road tripping experience

• Last Updated on April 12, 2024
• Published on April 11, 2019

This post may contain affiliate links. Read my Affiliate Disclosure here .

Explore the Blue Ridge Parkway Series

This article is part of the Blue Ridge Parkway series. Click the button to read more articles, itineraries, and travel guides in the series.

The 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most beautiful drives in America. It also happens to be my favorite drive in the country. But with hundreds of scenic overlooks, miles of hiking trails, and dozens of attractions, what should you be sure to see? These are the 15 places you must visit on the Blue Ridge Parkway. It’s a good start.

READ MORE: Complete List of All 423 National Park Service Units by State + Social Media and Website Links

Table of Contents

Map of places to visit on the blue ridge parkway, national park service app, what is a milepost, humpback rocks visitor center at milepost 5.8, james river visitor center at milepost 63.7, apple orchard mountain at milepost 76.5, peaks of otter at milepost 86, virginia’s explore park at milepost 115, mabry mill at milepost 176.1, blue ridge music center at milepost 213, moses h. cone memorial park at milepost 294, linn cove viaduct at milepost 304, linville falls at milepost 316, mt. mitchell state park at milepost 355.4, craggy gardens at milepost 364.4, mount pisgah at milepost 408.6, richland balsam overlook at milepost 431.4, waterrock knob at milepost 451.2.

How to use this map | Click the icon in the top-left corner to open the Map Legend, then click on any of the legend items to display more information. If you have a Google account, click the (very faint) star at the end of the map’s name to save this map to your account, then access the map from your smartphone during your trip.

The official National Park Service app is an all-in-one tool for planning a national park adventure and finding your way around the park. The app has information about every national park site across the country, essentially putting all the online information at your fingertips.

The free app features interactive maps, self-guided tours, amenities like restrooms, and lists of things to do. The powerful app has an offline mode – with a single tap, you can save the park for offline use to access all the information later. You’ll also have access to important information like alerts, contacts, fees, and operating hours.

Download the free app on iOS and Android .

Mileposts on the Blue Ridge Parkway are concrete posts etched with numbers marking the distance from Waynesboro, Virginia, at Milepost 0. The last marker is Milepost 469 at the Oconaluftee Visitor Center in Cherokee, North Carolina.

Like exit numbers on interstate highways, Mileposts are easy ways to determine the distance between attractions on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

• Why Visit | It’s the first visitor center from the north end in Virginia.

Just a few miles from the Northern Entrance to the Parkway in Waynesboro, the Humpback Rocks Visitor Center is a great start to your journey. The small visitor center has a nice gift shop and information desk where you can collect your National Park Passport Stamp, pick up a map to the Parkway, and get some information.

READ MORE: Where to Find the Visitor Centers on the Blue Ridge Parkway

The Outdoor Farm Museum is beside the visitor center along a short, paved trail. The exhibit includes a very nice log home to tour and a few examples of farm life in the Appalachian Mountains.

At the Humpback Gap Overlook at Milepost 6 you can access the Humpback Rocks Trail. The 7.8-mile roundtrip hike includes Humpback Rocks, Humpback Mountain, and the Humpback Rocks Picnic Area. A popular day hike is the 2-mile roundtrip hike to Humpback Rock that includes a strenuous 700’ climb to a breathtaking view.

• Things to Do | Visitor center, gift shop, and farm museum
• Parking | Parking area for vehicles and RVs

• Why Visit | It’s the lowest point on the parkway in Virginia with a hidden footbridge crossing the James River.

The next visitor center on the Parkway also happens to be another cool place to visit and stretch your legs. At just 650 feet above sea level the bridge crossing the James River is the lowest point on the entire Blue Ridge Parkway. The small visitor center has restrooms and information desk open during normal business hours.

There are three trails to hike at the James River Visitor Center. The Trail of Trees Trail is an easy 0.4-mile loop trail from the visitor center. The 0.4-mile Canal Lock Trail includes a rather cool walk along a pedestrian path beneath the highway bridge over the James River. On the other side of the river the trail leads to the restored Battery Creek Lock.

The final hiking trail is more strenuous but also more exciting. The 7-mile roundtrip Otter Creek Trail ascends from the visitor center to Otter Lake and then along Otter Creek to the campground. The best hiking option is just a 1.5-mile roundtrip hike from the visitor center to the end of Otter Lake where you’ll find a nice waterfall at the dam.

• Things to Do | Visitor center, picnic area, walking trails, interpretive area
• Parking | Parking area for vehicles and a limited number of travel trailers and RVs

• Why Visit | It’s the highest point on the parkway in Virginia.

At 3,950 feet above sea level the Apple Orchard Mountain Overlook is the highest point on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia. This is ironic considering that just lowest point on the Parkway is just 13 miles north at the James River Visitor Center.

Admittedly there isn’t much to do at the Apple Orchard Mountain Overlook other than read the info on a large board and admire the view across the landscape. The summit of Apple Orchard Mountain is the property of a US Navy radar station, although it is possible to hike there via the Appalachian Trail. You can park at the Sunset Field Overlook at Milepost 78.4 to access the Appalachian Trail for the hike.

• Things to Do | Scenic overlook at the highest point on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia
• Parking | Pull-off for vehicles

READ MORE: Road Trip on the Blue Ridge Parkway

• Why Visit | Get lunch at the restaurant and then walk the lakeside loop trail to enjoy spectacular views of Sharp Top Mountain.

There is so much to do at the Peaks of Otter it’s no wonder it is one of the most popular Blue Ridge Parkway destinations in Virginia.

The Peaks of Otter Lodge is a wonderful place to spend a night or two. The lodge is located on the edge of Abbott Lake and features a grand view of Sharp Top Mountain. The lodge includes 63 rooms all with a view of the lake.

The Lake View Restaurant is a popular dining destination for locals and guests alike. The full service restaurant features delicious meals throughout the day with stunning views of the lake and mountain.

The Peaks of Otter Campground is located on the opposite side of the lake from the lodge. The campground has 141 sites with 53 of them designed for RVs and campers. A large picnic area nearby also gives you place to enjoy a quick meal.

There are several trails to enjoy at the Peaks of Otter. The easiest is the 1-mile Abbott Lake Loop Trail that provides amazing views around the lake. The 1.8-mile Johnson Farm Loop Trail takes visitors to the historic Johnson Farm to see what life on a farm was like in the late 1800’s. The 3.3-mile Harkening Hill Trail is a moderately strenuous hike across a ridge to a beautiful viewing area at Balance Rock. The 1.5-mile Sharp Top Trail is a strenuous route that challenges even the best of hikers as it ascends the side of Sharp Top Mountain to a stunning 360-degree overlook at the summit. Adventurous hikers can also tackle the 4.4-mile Flat Top Trail as it winds through a beautiful area back to the Fallingwater Cascades Parking Area.

Just a quarter mile down the Parkway from the lodge is the Peaks of Otter Visitor Center. This small building has lots of information about destinations on the Parkway and restrooms for those needing a quick pit stop. The gift shop sells books, clothing, and souvenirs.

• Things to Do | Visitor center, hiking trails, and restaurant
• Parking | Multiple areas for vehicles, travel trailers, and RVs

• Why Visit | The Historic Settlement is the largest collection of log homes on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Although not owned or operated by the National Park Service, I have found Virginia’s Explore Park in Roanoke to be an amazing destination to visit on any trip down the Parkway.

At the heart of Explore Park is an official Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center. This visitor center has a 3D map of the Parkway that I always spend a few minutes admiring like a school kid. The visitor center also has a very nice gift shop and information desk for both the Parkway and surrounding area of Roanoke.

Explore Park offers a growing list of outdoor recreation options like horseback riding, mountain biking, kayaking, and camping. One of my favorite things to do is some hiking. The 0.17-mile Journeys End Trail leads to a hidden frontier settlement with over a dozen log homes, buildings, and a grist mill.

One of the coolest additions to the park in the last couple of years has been the pod cabins, yurts, and glamping tents. Along with primitive tent sites and RV sites there are plenty of ways to spend a night at Explore Park.

• Things to Do | Hiking trails through a historic settlement

• Why Visit | Mabry Mill is one of the most iconic spots on the parkway.

The Mabry Mill is perhaps the most iconic destination on the entire Blue Ridge Parkway. Within site of the parkway as you drive past it is a popular place on weekends during the peak of fall colors. The large parking area is often full but fortunately there is an overflow just behind the restaurant.

Mabry Mill is so much more than just the mill and pond, though. A short trail leads up a set of stairs and across the aqueduct that feeds water to the wheel. It then winds through and around several smaller buildings, an old wagon, and past a still in the forest. Sometimes on autumn weekends the mill will be open so you can peak inside.

The gift shop at the main parking lot has just about anything you could want that features the iconic mill: postcards, photos, clothing, mugs, calendars, and so much more.

The Mabry Mill Restaurant is open Monday-Thursday 7:30a.m.-5p.m. and Friday-Sunday 7:30a.m.-6p.m. Stop in for some wonderful country cooking in a comfortable atmosphere. The wait can get a little long during the peak foliage but it’s worth the wait.

• Things to Do | Hiking trail, historic grist mill, living history, gift shop, and restaurant
• Parking | Parking area for vehicles and an overflow parking area for vehicles and RVs

READ MORE: Visiting the Iconic Mabry Mill on the Blue Ridge Parkway

• Why Visit | Learn about the musical heritage along the U.S. Highway 58 corridor through Virginia.

Located near Galax, Virginia, the Blue Ridge Music Center is a part of the music heritage-oriented Crooked Road. The visitor center includes a very nice museum exploring that heritage of the surrounding area.

The biggest attraction to the Blue Ridge Music Center is the outdoor concert venue. Throughout much of the year (excluding the winter months) Saturday evenings are filled with music from bands playing all night long.

• Things to Do | Visitor center, gift shop, event venue, and museum

• Why Visit | The private mansion turned into a visitor center, gift shop, and museum is one of the best stops on the parkway.

This park has so much more to offer than you would know at first glance. The biggest attraction is the Parkway Craft Center located at Milepost 294. The craft center is located inside the historic Flat Top Manor, also known as The Cone Manor after the builder. On weekends a guided tour is often given of the upper floor by park rangers. The gift shop features the artwork of local artisans.

From the front porch of the manor you can see across the property to Bass Lake. Trails wind across the property, around the lake, and summit Rich Mountain behind the manor house. A lot of these trails also allow horseback riding with stables nearby.

The 5.2-mile roundtrip hike to Rich Mountain is a strenuous adventure with a pretty nice view from the top. The longer 6.8-mile roundtrip hike to Flat Top Tower is a bit more strenuous but is one of the most popular hikes in the area.

An easy hike is the 0.8-mile Bass Lake Loop Trail. Visitors can walk down a connecting 2.5-mile trail from the Parkway Craft Center or drive down to a parking area beside the lake.

• Things to Do | Visitor center, gift shop, museum, and hiking trails
• Bookmark on AllTrails | Flat Top Mountain Trail
• Parking | Parking area for vehicles only

• Why Visit | The s-shaped bridge is an engineering marvel.

The curving bridge hanging off the side of a mountain is one of the most iconic views of the Blue Ridge Parkway. The viaduct is more than just a unique, curvy bridge, though. The visitor center has a nice gift shop and small museum with a video and scale model showing the construction of the bridge. There are restrooms as well.

But one of the neatest things about this stop is the Tanawha Trail. At the far end of the parking lot a trail leads underneath viaduct before zigzagging to an elevation above the bridge. The trail connects Julian Price Memorial Park with the Stack Rock Overlook for an exciting hike, but the portion under the viaduct is only about two miles roundtrip.

• Things to Do | Visitor center, gift shop, hiking trail

• Why Visit | Linville Falls is one of the most accessible waterfalls on the parkway.

Linville Falls is one of my favorite places to visit on the Blue Ridge Parkway. This spectacular waterfall has several ways to enjoy a day hike and there is even a hidden waterfall most don’t know about.

The small visitor center has an equally small gift shop. There are restrooms available at the trailhead before you head out. Visitors can hike the 4-mile roundtrip Linville Falls Trail to three different overlooks for views of the waterfall. For a little more adventure the strenuous 2.4-mile roundtrip Plunge Basin Trail leads to the bottom of the waterfall.

At the far end of the parking lot at the visitor center is a short 0.2-mile trail leading to the hidden Dugger’s Creek Falls, a small waterfall wedged in a narrow rocky ravine about 6’ tall.

If one day is just not enough to hike all the trails there is the Linville Falls Campground. It’s the smallest campground on the Parkway but still offers 50 tent sites and 20 RV sites. The campground is located along the river above the waterfall.

READ MORE: 5 Ways to View Linville Falls (and Duggars Creek Falls) on the Blue Ridge Parkway

• Things to Do | Visitor center, gift shop, hiking trails, and scenic overlooks around a waterfall
• Bookmark on AllTrails | Erwin’s View Trail and Plunge Basin Trail

• Why Visit | Mount Mitchel is the highest point on the east coast and the first geologist to measure the summit is buried on top.

At 6,684 feet above sea level Mt. Mitchell is the highest point east of the Mississippi River. It’s part of a chain of mountains called the Southern Sixers , peaks above 6,000’ elevation in the southern Appalachian Mountains.

Mt. Mitchell State Park is built around the summit of the mountain. It is the only state park exclusively accessible via the Blue Ridge Parkway. The end of the road at the top includes a visitor center, gift shop, museum, restrooms, and a concession stand.

The view from the parking lot is pretty awesome but if you want to reach the summit you’ll have to take a little hike. The 0.3-mile roundtrip trail to the summit is a little steep but it’s paved all the way. At the top is a large round observation deck with uninterrupted views in all directions.

The state park also includes a restaurant with a view of the mountain summit through large picture windows. The food is pretty good, but I have to admit I’ve only tried it once. The meat loaf and fried apples were amazing.

There is a small campground with just 9 tent sites, but no room for RVs. There are also plenty of backcountry campsites on the surrounding trails. One of those trails is the Black Mountain Crest Trail. This trail follows the crest of the mountain range so it’s a pretty easy hike.

• Things to Do | Scenic overlook at the highest point east of the Mississippi River, visitor center, gift shop, hiking trails
• Parking | Parking areas for vehicles only

• Why Visit | Various trails and scenic overlooks offer lots of ways to enjoy Craggy Gardens.

Craggy Gardens is one of the most popular destinations from Asheville and is a beautiful place for a hike almost year-round. Come in the late spring or early summer to catch the rhododendron in full bloom across the mountain peaks of the gardens.

Park at Craggy Pinnacle and enjoy a moderate hike to the summit for a breathtaking views in all directions. If you’re not up for the hike you can always park at the visitor center for a pretty good view into a valley. The visitor center has a small gift shop and restrooms beneath (these restrooms are not handicap accessible).

A final way to enjoy Craggy Gardens is to take the easy hike up to Craggy Knob. It only takes about 15-20 minutes to reach the bald mountain top where you can look back and see Craggy Pinnacle and Craggy Dome in the distance.

READ MORE: 3 Ways to Explore Craggy Gardens on the Blue Ridge Parkway

• Things to Do | Visitor center, scenic overlooks, hiking trails
• Bookmark on AllTrails | Craggy Pinnacle Trail , Craggy Knob Trail
• Parking | Parking areas for vehicles, travel trailers, and RVs

• Why Visit | It’s one of the most active areas on the parkway with an inn, restaurant, gift shop, campground, hiking trails, and scenic overlooks.

Mount Pisgah is one of the most beautiful and active areas of the Blue Ridge Parkway to explore. The lodge, campground, restaurant, and scenic overlooks combine for a chance to see and do it all with a few nights’ stay. The high elevation of around 5,000′ means the fall colors will arrive early here so be prepared.

The Pisgah Inn was built in 1964 but the building has withstood the test of time, and elements, and remains a gorgeous place to spend some time. The lack of air conditioning in the rooms is a testament to the fact it rarely gets hot at this elevation even in the middle of summer. All of the rooms include a private porch or balcony with a secluded view of the gorgeous mountain landscapes.

The inn includes a dining room that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day of the week during the open season. Open to guests and visitors alike the dining room offers a stunning view to go along with a great meal.

Located right beside the Parkway is the Gift Shop and Country Store. This store has staples like food, snacks, drinks, and ice as well as locally made arts & crafts.

The campground is across the Parkway from the inn and includes 70 tent sites and 67 RV sites. It’s the highest campground on the entire Parkway and offers some of the most breathtaking views and seclusion. Parts of the campground can be reserved online but most of it is first come, first served.

A nearby picnic area gives you a place to spread out a blanket on those warm autumn days and enjoy a meal outside. Almost across the Parkway at Milepost 407.6 is the entrance to the Mount Pisgah Overlook and Buck Springs Lodge Overlook. The Mount Pisgah Overlook is atop a tunnel on the Parkway and includes a trail leading to the summit of the mountain. The Buck Springs Lodge overlook faces the opposite direction and includes a short half-mile trail to the former site of a hunting retreat for Vanderbilt.

• Things to Do | Scenic overlook and hiking trail
• Bookmark on AllTrails | Mount Pisgah Trail

• Why Visit | It’s the highest point on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

At 6,053′ above sea level the Richland Balsam Overlook is the highest point on the entire Blue Ridge Parkway. A lone sign in a large parking area marks the significance and offers a chance for a selfie. But the view here won’t be the best during the fall colors for one simple reason: there aren’t many deciduous trees at this elevation. Most of the trees are evergreens so at least you’ll have that nice vibrant green contrasting the starkness of autumn.

The parking area has a fairly nice view, but it’s limited by the growth of trees at the edge of the overlook. Nearby Cowee Mountain Overlook actually has a much better view (and it’s my favorite overlook on the Parkway).

Adventurous hikers can take the 1.5-mile loop trail to the summit of Richland Balsam. The very top of the mountain stands at 6,410′ so it’s a steep climb, but then you get to say you’ve been higher than almost everyone else on the Parkway.

• Things to Do | Scenic overlook at the highest point on the Blue Ridge Parkway

• Why Visit | Stunning views in all directions.

Waterrock Knob has beautiful views in all directions along with a short hiking trail and a visitor center. It’s definitely a great place to visit while the fall colors are peaking and works any time of day. Come early for a stunning sunrise or stay late for a sunset, either way you’ll be amazed.

The visitor center will have someone to answer questions and a small gift shop with souvenirs and clothing. The restroom facilities are pretty nice considering how remote this overlook is on the Parkway.

The parking area has great views in all directions. It’s a wide parking area with a grassy area in the middle and picnic tables around the edge. During the peak of fall colors the parking area will fill up early with locals who come up just to see the stunning colors fade across the sky.

The Waterrock Knob Trail is a 1.2-mile roundtrip hike to the summit of the mountain. It’s a steep climb of just over 400′ in elevation but the views are worth the effort. The first 1/4-mile of the trail is paved leading to a small overlook just above the parking area. The very top has a stunning view of the local landscape, but it’s not an uninterrupted view.

• Things to Do | Visitor center, hiking trail, scenic overlooks, and picnic area
• Bookmark on AllTrails | Waterrock Knob Trail

25 Responses

Hi Jason, We will have one day to visit BRP, what will be your recommendation for us to spend the time?(@? We are staying at a cabin located in Tryon.

Mariluz, it would be a little difficult to visit the Blue Ridge Parkway from Tryon because of the location. It’ll take about 45 minutes just to reach the Parkway in Asheville, and longer to get “home” that evening. But if you really want to explore it, begin at the NC Arboretum in Asheville and head south on the Parkway. You can visit Mount Pisgah and the Pink Beds Overlook. You could exit at US Highway 276 and drive into Brevard. Along the way, stop to see Sliding Rock, Looking Glass Falls, and go for a walk at the Cradle of Forestry in America. Although this is not a Parkway experience, you could drive through DuPont State Forest on the way back to Tryon – it’s home to about a dozen stunning waterfalls, some of them an easy hike to see.

Nice photography and Thank you so much for the info

Thank you so much for this. I am planning to leave Vermont next week and the BRP was on my list of must do’s. I now have a break down of 15 must see by milepost . So excited. Are there good places to disburse camp along the way or nearby when stopping for the night? I am heading to warmer climates and road tripping this winter so any other road trips you might recommend?

First, thank you for the kind words Maggie. Next, those are some big questions! Disbursed camping is not allowed on the Blue Ridge Parkway, and after November 1 all the campgrounds have closed for the season. The only off-Parkway places for disbursed camping are around Brevard in Pisgah National Forest. If you’re “heading south for the winter,” I recommend road tripping along the Natchez Trace Parkway and Florida 30A. I’m in the process of writing about both of those!

Hey where would you recommend as the best part of the Blue Ridge Parkway to visit this upcoming weekend October 23, 2021 to see the Is prettiest fall colors. And also could you recommend a very nice place to stay for 2 on a tight budget on a quick weekend get away? Thank you so very much!

Melissa, fall colors are notoriously unpredictable. However, the Blue Ridge Parkway between Blowing Rock and Cherokee goes through a LOT of elevation changes. If the higher elevations are past peak color, just keep driving to a lower elevation! As for place to stay, that will be very difficult. Even shoestring budget places up their rates on the weekends this time of year to take advantage of the leaf peepers. There are a LOT of budget hotels in Asheville around Tunnel Road, and west of the city along I-40. Hendersonville would be a good place to spend the night, but it’s a good 45 minutes from the Parkway with local traffic.

Thank you so much for the info!!

You’re very welcome, Melissa! I don’t know if you can tell, but the Blue Ridge Parkway is one of my FAVORITE writing subjects.

Hello Jason, I just happen upon your article about the BRP and I loved reading all about the different places to stop and explore. My husband I were discussing driving the parkway but I am not sure where to stay, my husband is very picking when it comes to places we stay at. So are there any new or nicer places along the way you would suggest I can look up and maybe make reservations at? We are trying to find places that we haven’t gone to yet and will hopefully not be so crowed seeing as how its a scenic drive. I would appreciate any information you could give me and Thank you in advance !!!!

Jeanne, it’s interesting you ask this question. It is one of the most frequent questions people ask me, so I have been working on an epic lodging guide to the BRP. However, it’s not complete yet. So here is what I’ll tell you: there are certain destinations along the Parkway that have very nice hotels. Waynesboro, VA; Roanoke, VA; Galax, VA along I-77; Boone, NC and Blowing Rock, NC; Asheville, NC in Biltmore Village (not the estate) and Airport Road. If you have specific travel dates and destinations you want to spend the night, drop me an email and I’ll find something specific for you!

my wife and I are from Colorado and looking at visiting in october. How many day s and nights should we plan to drive the whole parkway? Can you give us some names of places to stay ? We want to take our time and allow at least 4 nights. Do you advise staying anywhere of the places on the Parkway. Any favorite places not to miss. Any information you can give us would be helpful. If you need any information on Colorado please ask since I have traveled virtually the whole state Tom Schultz [email protected]

Hi Jason your article is very informative My husband and I are planning to drive the BRP very soon how many days we need to see all those mileposts areas you mentioned . Thank you …..mercy

The Blue Ridge Parkway is just 469 miles long and with the average speed limit you can drive it end-to-end in just 15 hours. With that being said, I recommend a minimum of three days to really enjoy it. Both of the times I drove the entire Parkway in one go, I spent six days.

I live in va. just off the B.R.P. I have always loved traveling it, although I’ve never traveled the whole length. It’s on the plan board for my son and I to spend a few weeks traveling it from end to end in a few years. I plan to read your blog that describes the whole parkway. Thank you for your beautiful pictures and your informative article! Happy traveling!

You are very welcome! Thanks for reading the article. The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of my favorite subjects to write about. I hope you and your son have an incredible time when you get around to exploring the entire Parkway.

Great info and pics! Best stops for coffee along the parkway?

THAT is a good question – and I don’t have a good answer! I have always been so eager to see sunrise and sunset at all the scenic overlooks that I have always just made my own coffee haha. But I tell you what – I think this is an excellent theme for my next road trip on the Parkway. When I do that trip, I’ll email you to let you know!

I have dreamed to travel the parkway for several years now, so after reading this article and seeing the photos, I finally plan to make this happen this year. Thank you for the detailed descriptions and inspiration.

You are very welcome! I have also written a full road trip itinerary for the Blue Ridge Parkway. That might help you better plan a trip.

Where can I find the full road trip itinerary for the Blue Ridge Parkway?

Lee, here’s the link – https://www.roadtripsandcoffee.com/road-trip-blue-ridge-parkway/

Thank you for the info. I really enjoyed the pictures.

Thank you! I’m glad you enjoyed them!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• share this article

Privacy Policy

Copyright © 2023 Jason Barnette | All rights reserved | Seriously, don’t steal my stuff

Share this Article

Did you enjoy reading this article? If so, then share it with your friends. Sharing is caring, after all.

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip | Our Recommended 5-Day Itinerary

Anton Ermachkov / Shutterstock

• Destinations
• North Carolina
• Road Trips In The U.S.
• Types of Travel
• United States

Note: The Travel Awaits team regularly updates content to provide the latest, and most accurate information to our readers. The updated content in this article may not reflect the views or opinions of the original author.

There are more than 450 mileposts in the Milepost Guide of the 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway, which showcases the lovely Blue Ridge Mountains which are a physiographic province of the larger Appalachian Highlands range.

It includes everything travelers look for: small towns, tunnels, overlooks, campgrounds, cabins, bed and breakfasts, hotels and motels, restaurants, a visitor center, National Park Service, parking areas, picnic areas, wineries, hiking trails, waterfalls, mountains, lakes, rivers, and other attractions along the way.

This is why the parkway is the most visited single unit in the U.S. National Parks System. Driving straight through without stopping would take about ten to twelve hours, but three to seven days is needed to explore it well. To avoid the summer heat, visit in early spring.

There are many visitor centers, but to plan our exploration, we went to the main Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center (MP 384) near the city of Asheville and our campground in Lenoir, North Carolina. Based on the information from the visitor center, we grouped visits to our chosen landmarks into five parts and planned a day to see each grouping. We’ve ordered them chronologically, based on our itinerary, and I’ve provided milepost numbers for guidance when going on the Blue Ridge Mountains run.

jamee Kennedy / Shutterstock

Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip: The Perfect 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: blowing rock.

The town of Blowing Rock (MP 219.9) was only about 30 minutes away from our campground. Its population of 1,500 balloons to 10,000 during the tourist season in summer. It takes its name from an unusual rock formation named The Blowing Rock that juts over 1,500 feet above the Johns River Gorge.

Wind currents from the gorge often blow vertically, causing light objects to float upward into the sky. Legend has it that a pair of lovers from warring tribes, the Cherokee and Catawba, separated by war, were reunited only when the woman prayed to the Great Spirit, who sent gusts of wind to blow him back up the cliff. And the winds stayed.

Whether you’re drawn by Blowing Rock’s history or its legend, you can’t afford to miss the views. Apart from the famed rock, you’ll find a scenic overlook and a sizable observation tower offering sweeping panoramic views. What further captivated us were the enormous, gorgeous exhibited crystals in the official gallery.

Blowing Rock Art & History Museum was our next stop. Admission was free so we enjoyed creative paintings and sculptures and took our time at the history exhibits. It’s interesting to read how Blowing Rock evolved over the years. From this museum, you can walk right outside into the heart of downtown.

The other popular tourist attraction near Blowing Rock is The Tweetsie Railroad Theme Park, which is home to the only remaining fully-functional steam engine train in North Carolina. Visitors to Tweetsie can ride the train for three miles to enjoy the lovely Appalachian trail mountain scenery, which is especially gorgeous in the fall. There are other park rides to enjoy, plus a deer park and shows, and this mountain town has many little craft shops. too.

Cvandyke / Shutterstock

Day 2: Grandfather Mountain And Linn Cove Viaduct

Grandfather Mountain (MP 307.4) has been designated by the United Nations as an International Biosphere Reserve because of the seven environmental habitats it encompasses (one each for black bears, river otters, cougar, bald eagles, golden eagle, and white-tailed deer). Additionally, the flamboyant Catawba rhododendron blooms here at lower elevations by April. The huge purple blossoms progress to high peaks by late June when they become a real spectacle. The mountain is also famous for the Mile-High Swinging Bridge, which was built to give visitors a breath-taking 360-degree view — especially during fall — from Linville Peak. The 228-foot suspension bridge is more than one mile high and spans an 80-foot chasm.

Further down the parkway, there is a great view of the Linn Cove Viaduct (MP 304.4) from the Linn Cove Visitors’ Center (MP 304). The Viaduct, a 1,243-foot concrete segmental bridge which snakes around the slopes of Grandfather Mountain, is a sight to behold. It was completed in 1983 at a cost of $10 million and was the last section of the parkway to be finished.

I should tell you that one of the things included in your park admission is a CD that you can listen to on your skyline drive through this National Park. Listening to the fun facts about the historic sites we were passing by was very interesting actually. In fact, nobody had the faintest idea that a part of Forrest Gump was filmed here.

In the end, to sweeten up our trip to Grandfather Mountain, we turned to “Grandfather Mountain Fudge Shop”. To place an order for pickup and enjoy the cool flavors like peppermint or pumpkin call Mildred’s Grill .

amadeustx / Shutterstock

Day 3: Asheville To Linville Falls

On day three, we headed to Asheville , where we took a peek at America’s great castle, the beautiful Biltmore , but we didn’t have the time to explore it. Instead, we trekked up the parkway to the Folk Art Center (MP 382), which exhibits quality products from North Carolina’s talented craftsmen. I especially liked the handwoven scarves, stoles, and purses I saw there, but they were a little expensive.

It would have been spectacular had the rhododendrons been in full bloom, but they were just starting when we went to our next stop: Craggy Gardens at MP 364.6. Here, the parkway is literally lined with walls of the plants that are sometimes as tall as trees. The best time to visit is late June to early August when the pinkish purple blooms are at their peak everywhere. But another good visit time is fall, when you can witness the deciduous trees’ majestic display of yellows, reds, and golds.

Next up: Mt. Mitchell at MP 349. This is the highest peak on the East Coast at 6,700 feet. Climbing up to the Mt. Mitchell Observation Tower, I was alarmed when my heart pounded so much. I began to think of nothing else except how to keep fit while RV cruising. But I got a great treat after reaching the top. It wasn’t only the panoramic view but also the wonderfully hot chili and dogs at the restaurant we found there.

It was already getting late, so we skipped the other stops so we could reach Linville Falls (MP 316.4) before nightfall. The beautiful waters cascade down from the 2,000-foot Linville Peak of Grandfather Mountain. It took a brisk hike to get to the falls and the walk back was done even more hurriedly. In fact, we got back to Lenoir past 8 p.m., just before the library closed, to take out a movie for the night.

Carol Colborn

Day 4: Meadows Of Dan To Roanoke, Virginia

Next we tackled the Virginia section of the parkway. The sounds of the banjo, fiddle, and guitar greeted us at the Blue Ridge Music Center (MP 213) just after the North Carolina border. But it was Puckett Cabin (MP 190) that held our interest for some time. Orelena Puckett was a famous midwife in the late 1800s. Legend has it that, traveling miles on foot when called, she assisted in giving birth to about a thousand babies in 50 years — she lived to be 102 — and was paid about a dollar for each childbirth. The sad irony is that although she gave birth to 24 children herself, none of them survived beyond infancy.

After Puckett Cabin, we headed for the main destination of the day. Mabry Mill (MP 176.1) is the most photographed (and painted) scene along the Blue Ridge Parkway. I tried to capture its magic in photos, but it is truly best seen in person. The Mabrys were jacks of all trades, so the property even had a blacksmith shop in addition to the centerpiece mill and pond. To this day, the serene paradise depicts the way subsistence farmers lived during those days, especially how water was managed.

We ended the day in the charming mountain city of Roanoke (MP 120.4) which has a population of 300,000. As we proceeded to our motel, we saw a big star shining from atop the mountains. The next day, I found out that it was the eternally lit Mill Mountain Star, the world’s largest freestanding illuminated man-made star. Constructed in 1949 at the top of Mill Mountain, it stands 88.5 feet tall with 2,000 feet of neon tubing powered by 17,500 watts. It was red, white, and blue for six years after the Twin Towers attack and was switched back to all white after the Virginia Tech massacre. Now it turns red whenever there is a traffic fatality in the city.

Jill Lang / Shutterstock

Day 5: Beyond Roanoke And Toward The Northern Terminus

The following day was our last, as we’d almost reached the northern terminus at MP 0 near Shenandoah National Park. We started with a short drive from Roanoke to the Peaks of Otter (MP 86), which are called Sharp Top, Flat Top, and Harkening Hill. To hike up any one would have taken around three hours, so we opted to satisfy ourselves by taking lovely pictures from the lodge instead. Then we took a peek at Poplar Forest, the summer home of Thomas Jefferson, a short drive from the peaks.

Our next stop was the town of Glasgow. Fifteen miles from MP 61.4 is the Natural Bridge. For the last 500 million years, it has been a continuing work of art carved out by the waters of Cedar Rapids. Look for the letters GW that are inscribed on the rocks about 23 feet from the stream’s surface at the middle below the bridge; they’re said to have been carved by George Washington. All around the grounds are 1,600 year-old trees that have died and are in the process of becoming petrified. It was worth the hefty price we paid for entry, but it’s too bad that it’s been over-commercialized with a toy museum and wax factory, where we felt we wasted considerable time.

By the time we got out of the Natural Bridge area, we’d missed the open hours of the Stonewall Jackson House in Lexington (MP 46). They say that had he not been accidentally killed by one of his men, the Confederacy would have won the Civil War. The Virginia Military Institute, just a few miles away, is dubbed the West Point of the South and is responsible for managing the Stonewall House and museum.

After we’d packed up camp, we drove the parkway toward its southern terminus at MP 469. This section had so many tunnels, coming one after another and sometimes even back to back. It was an amazingly scenic skyline drive that inspired our next adventure at Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Want more on our RVing adventures? Here’s what we learned from eight years of cruising North America in an RV and five fabulous glaciers to visit in Alaska .

How Long Would It Take to Drive Through Blue Ridge Parkway?

It would theoretically take 15 hours to drive the Blue Ridge Parkway straight through. But with the countless overlooks, waterfalls, and other attractions along the way, you will stop more than once to see the sights.

How Many Overlooks Are There Along the Blue Ridge Parkway?

Even though there are about 280 pullouts on the parkway, only 200 are listed as overlooks. Out of those, 68 are in Virginia and 132 in North Carolina. They’re notated using mileposts, from VA’s Afton Overlook to NC’s View Oconaluftee River.

How Many Blue Ridge Parkway Campgrounds Are There?

There are only eight official Blue Ridge Parkway campgrounds. They are seasonal camps with restrooms, drinking water, picnic area with tables, and grills, but without RV hookups. However, there are many other private campgrounds located right off of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Are There Visitor Centers Located on the Blue Ridge Parkway?

Yes. There are 15 Visitor Centers located on the Blue Ridge Parkway, with 6 located in Virginia and 9 in North Carolina. Three visitor centers are open year-round, but most of them are seasonal and open only from May through October. 

Can You Drive an RV or Pull a Camper on the Blue Ridge Parkway?

Yes, but it can be risky because tunnels and overhanging tree limbs may be a problem for tall RVs and campers. Also, you must exit off the parkway to fuel up because gas is not available on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Carol retired as a CEO for pioneering IT companies in the Philippines. Curious about the world she missed while stressing out working, she migrated to the U.S., ended up an adjunct professor and small business counselor while babysitting her grandson during the day. That is, until she met her travel partner on the internet! After the wedding ceremony, they honeymooned for eight years in an RV to 49 states, nine Canadian provinces, and six Mexican states.

They now call Mesa, Arizona, home. From this base, they embark on great road trips to meet family at reunions in picturesque resorts around the U.S. Visits to their kids’ homes in Anchorage, Boise, and Denver (his) and in San Francisco, Calgary, and Melbourne (hers) allow for exploring the U.S., Canada, and Australia. Carol has been to 48 countries but their 3-month all-inclusive winter escapes to Mexico in Mazatlan, Cancun, or Cozumel are their best times.

Carol maintains a blog, Carolina: Cruising Past 70 , and has published two travel books: Carolina: Cruising to an American Dream about her RVing years and Cruising Past Seventy: It's Not Only About Outer Journeys . It's Also about Inner Ones , is a collection of her most widely-read blog posts and articles. She has a BS in math, MBA, and DPA.

The ultimate Blue Ridge Parkway road trip guide

Quite likely the world's longest road constructed purely in the name of leisurely exploration, the Blue Ridge Parkway twists and climbs for 469 miles through a breathtaking stretch of alpine wilderness in North Carolina and Virginia. Operated by the National Park Service and constructed mostly from 1935 to 1966, this serpentine two-lane ribbon of blacktop connects two other natural wonders of the eastern United States: Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Shenandoah National Park .

It's a slow drive, and deliberately so: the speed limit is 45 mph, and by following the twisting spine of the Blue Ridge Mountains (which are a subrange of the Appalachians), it sacrifices directness for beauty. You can hop on and off at countless junctions along the route, including two attractive midsize cities — Asheville , North Carolina, and Roanoke, Virginia. But if you're up for a grand adventure and can spare a few days, it's well worth driving the entire parkway.

You'll encounter dozens of remarkable diversions along the way: hundreds of scenic viewpoints and picnic spots, miles of both easy and arduous hiking trails and a bounty of engaging historic sites that shed light on Appalachian heritage and folkways. There are a handful of places to eat and overnight on or very close to the parkway and many more within a short drive.

From south to north, here's a look at some of the most memorable stops along this magical road and helpful planning tips to get you started.

Planning advice

Best start and end points for the Blue Ridge Parkway

At the parkway's southern end, in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the nearest commercial airport is Knoxville's McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS), a two-hour drive.

Of cities with major airports, Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT) is just 3 1/2 hours away and is a good option as a start and end point if you are planning a round-trip car rental. Charlotte is also a 4 1/2-hour drive (by the faster interstate highways) from the northern end of the parkway (and southern entrance of Shenandoah National Park).

Atlanta is also 3 1/2 hours from the south end of the parkway, and the drive up through Georgia's Appalachian mountains — via Tallulah Falls, Georgia, and Bryson City, North Carolina — is quite beautiful. It's a great way to extend your adventure. From the north end of the Blue Ridge Parkway, Dulles International Airport (IAD) is 2 1/2 hours (or an hour from Shenandoah's north entrance in Front Royal).

Related: The best US national parks you should visit at least once (or twice)

Although there's no fee to drive the Blue Ridge Parkway or to enter Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you'll need to pay $30 per private vehicle to enter Shenandoah National Park.

When is the best time to drive the Blue Ridge Parkway?

The scenery along the parkway really sings anytime from spring through fall, but May through mid-June stands out especially for viewing wildflowers and rhododendrons in bloom, and mid-September through mid-October is the best period for seeing brilliant fall foliage.

Temperatures along the parkway tend to be five to 10 degrees cooler than in the region's lower elevations, making this drive a potentially cool escape from summer heat. On the other hand, this means snow and ice are a possibility in winter, which is also the one season when many facilities along the road are closed.

Keep in mind that this curving and relatively narrow road is prone to fog and wild animal crossings any time of year. It's best to drive it only during daylight hours, both for safety and the best views, and to exercise great caution when there's heavy rain.

Although it's theoretically possible to drive the entire route in three days, you'll have a far more enjoyable experience if you allow five days given the parkway's leisurely pace. With a full week, you'll have more than enough time to explore Great Smoky Mountains and Shenandoah national parks, too.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park to Asheville

The Blue Ridge Parkway begins close to the Oconaluftee Visitor Center in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and it's definitely worth budgeting time to explore the park's stunning landscapes.

This rugged 522,419-acre swath of pristine forests, open meadows and meandering streams is the largest national park east of the Mississippi, but in a single day you can ascend to the observation tower atop 6,643-foot Clingmans Dome, amble among the exhibits of the open-air Mountain Farm Museum and drive into the Tennessee section of the park to drive the enchanting Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail and maybe hop out for a short trek to Grotto Falls.

Where to stop

Once you enter the parkway, after taking a selfie in front of the pretty painted "welcome" sign at milepost 469.1, you've got about 90 miles ahead of you to Asheville.

This section has some of the most dramatic scenic pullouts along the entire route, with Waterrock Knob (milepost 451) a particular highlight. There's a small visitor center and picnic area, and the views are incredible at sunset.

The other big highlight along this stretch is Mount Pisgah (milepost 408) — allow a couple of hours for the steep but well-trod 2.6-mile round-trip hike to this 5,721-foot peak that offers a vast panorama of nearby Asheville.

Exploring Asheville

With a fantastic culinary and craft beer scene, a rich arts scene and a progressive, creative spirit, the small city of Asheville (population 94,000) has enough to keep you busy for several days, including two notable stops along the parkway: the light-filled Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center, with its engrossing exhibits on the road's natural and human history, and the superb Folk Art Center, whose galleries exhibit works by members of the prestigious Southern Highland Craft Guild (you can also buy beautiful wares in the Allanstand crafts shop).

In Asheville itself, set aside time to explore the greenery of North Carolina Arboretum, peruse the dozens of galleries of the hip River Arts District, and spend time eating your way through buzzy food-and-drink neighborhoods like South Slope (on the edge of downtown) and West Asheville (along Haywood Road).

Related: From the Biltmore to hiking, finding family fun in Asheville

With its Chateauesque 250-room mansion, splendid gardens and numerous other diversions, Biltmore Estate is another must, but you really need a full day to make the most of visiting this 8,000-acre estate (daily admission starts at $85 per person).

Where to stay

Although there are no accommodations within Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you'll find a good selection of options in the gateway towns of Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and — just 4 miles from the start of the Blue Ridge Parkway — Cherokee, North Carolina.

One excellent lodging located directly along this stretch of the parkway is the Pisgah Inn (rates start at $250 per night), a pleasant, two-story midcentury lodge with a restaurant and sweeping mountain and valley views.

From here, it's only another 20 miles to Asheville, which offers the greatest range of notable hotels along the Blue Ridge Parkway. You'll find all the usual chain properties here, as well as some distinctive boutique hotels, like chic Restoration Asheville (rates start at $279), which opened steps from downtown restaurants and breweries in 2022.

Biltmore Estate has three upscale accommodations (rates start at $270), but it's the storied Omni Grove Park Inn (rates start at $359) — a striking Arts and Crafts beauty with stunning Blue Ridge views, superb restaurants and one of the Southeast's most luxurious spas — that's worth a splurge, especially if you can stay at least a couple of nights to fully enjoy its myriad amenities.

Asheville to Blowing Rock

Just northeast of Asheville, Craggy Gardens Picnic Area (milepost 364) is a shaded tract of outdoor tables with slightly sloping trails leading to magnificent stands of rhododendrons, azaleas and mountain laurels. About 10 miles later, you can briefly detour up a side road to the summit of the highest point in the eastern U.S.: Mount Mitchell. A short paved path leads to the observation deck, and there's a small museum and casual restaurant, too.

At 305, you'll approach Grandfather Mountain, whose rocky peaks you can explore by walking across a dramatic mile-high swinging bridge. Here you'll also drive along the parkway's greatest engineering marvel, the Linn Cove Viaduct, a curving 1,243-foot-long concrete bridge that hugs Grandfather Mountain's precipitous face.

Nearby at Julian Price Memorial Park, you can rent a kayak or canoe for a refreshing paddle around Price Lake. From here, you can hop off the parkway to check out the quaint village center of Blowing Rock, with its gift and crafts shops as well as the interesting Blowing Rock Art and History Museum.

Charming Blowing Rock has a handful of notable places to stay, including the woodsy-chic Mountainaire Inn and Log Cabins (rates start at $143). And just off the parkway between Asheville and Blowing Rock, the alpine chalet-inspired Switzerland Inn (rates start at $219) has several types of rooms, from A-frame cabin to cozy cottage. From the parkway, it's a 15-minute drive via U.S. Route 321 to the college town of Boone, home to Appalachian State University along with a good mix of hotels and motels.

Blowing Rock to Roanoke

As you approach Virginia, stop for lunch at the parkway's oldest eatery, The Bluffs (milepost 238), a restored 1940s rustic-style diner known for fried chicken lunches, before taking a walk around nearby Brinegar Cabin, a small late-19th-century homestead that's typical of those that once proliferated in these mountains.

Highlights after crossing the state line include the easy 2-mile loop waterfall hike at Cumberland Knob (milepost 218) and the nearby outdoor Blue Ridge Music Center, which stages folk and country concerts throughout the summer. At historic Mabry Mill (milepost 176), you can watch docents working in the historic sawmill and blacksmith shop and dine in the colorful restaurant (known for its fresh-baked blackberry cobbler).

Related: Looking to live out your Outer Banks dreams? Here are 5 towns you should visit.

You'll encounter the turnoff for picturesque Mill Mountain Parkway, which leads into Roanoke (population 99,000), at milepost 120 — stop at Mill Mountain Park for a grand view of the city, and a walk through a small zoo and garden if time allows, on your way into town.

Exploring Roanoke

Give yourself at least a half day to get to know this bustling hill city with several first-rate attractions, including the Taubman Museum of Art, which is focused on regional American works, and the O. Winston Link Museum, with its attractive setting inside a vintage train station, the perfect place to display its railroad photography. Pick up locally raised and made food at Historic Roanoke City Market, and hunt for Appalachian antiques and architectural wares at famed Black Dog Salvage.

The second sizable city along the Blue Ridge Parkway, Roanoke enjoys a lovely setting and makes for a convenient overnight base, but it's mostly a city of chain options.

The Hotel Roanoke & Conference Center, Curio Collection by Hilton (rates start at $180 or 43,000 Hilton Honors points per night) stands out for its 1880s Tudor-style design and refined restaurant serving French cuisine with a Southern twist, and the Liberty Trust (rates start at $173) occupies a gorgeously transformed 1910 bank tower.

If you have time and want to treat yourself to a truly special overnight, consider making the half-hour detour from the parkway (near Meadows of the Dan, Virginia) to the Primland Resort (rates start at $859), a posh 12,000-acre property that's part of the ritzy Auberge Resorts brand.

Roanoke to Shenandoah National Park

From Roanoke, you've got about 115 miles ahead on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Along this stretch, make time for a detour into the cute hamlet of Buchanan, where you can venture across a vintage swinging bridge over the James River, and stop for a bite to eat and a hike along one of the easy but rewarding trails at the Peaks of the Otter area (milepost 86). In another 20 miles, you can explore a system of historic canals and locks at the James River Visitor Center.

Skyline Drive

At milepost 0, the Blue Ridge Parkway ends on an overpass above Interstate Highway 64. Or, to be more precise, it transitions into Skyline Drive, the 105-mile scenic route through Shenandoah National Park.

This curvaceous and lofty thoroughfare feels quite similar to the Blue Ridge Parkway — the main difference is that the speed limit is lower (35 mph), and you'll pay a $30 per vehicle fee to enter the park.

Related: 10 of the best national parks to visit in the fall

Many more enticing diversion await you on journey, including Blackrock Summit (milepost 85), where you can amble along a short but breathtaking section of the Appalachian Trail. Endearingly named places like Hawksbill Gap, Hogback Overlook and Little Devils Stairs offer more opportunities for fresh-air hiking with eye-popping views.

Along the parkway, Peaks of the Otter Lodge (rates start at $159 per night) has 63 modern rooms, many with views across a rippling lake. If you're ending your trip at the parkway's northern terminus, it's an easy drive on I-64 to Staunton (20 minutes west) or Charlottesville (30 minutes east), two alluring towns with a bounty of both chains and more distinctive accommodations.

If continuing along Skyline Drive through Shenandoah National Park, make every effort to stay in one of the park's two hotels, Big Meadows Lodge (rates start at $116) or the Skyland Inn (rates start at $136). These are relatively modest, low-slung properties built in the late 1930s, and they often fill up fast so book ahead if possible. But there's something special about waking up in a room high atop the park's 3,500-foot-elevation spine, with panoramic views west toward the Allegheny Mountains.

If you can't land a room in the park, Luray — about 10 miles west of the park at roughly its north-south midpoint and famous for its touristy but fun Luray Caverns cave system — has a number of appealing options. Or just outside the northern entrance to the park, the quaint town of Front Royal is another excellent hotel base. From here you're also just over an hour's drive to Washington, D.C.

Related reading:

• Key travel tips you need to know — whether you're a beginner or expert traveler
• The best travel credit cards
• The 18 best places to travel in 2023
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• 8 of the best credit cards for general travel purchases
• 13 must-have items the TPG team can't travel without

The Catawba Falls trail is closed until spring of 2024. Click here to find alternative waterfall and hiking trails.

Sign Up for Updates

• Little Switzerland
• Nebo and Lake James
• Linville Falls Community

Exploring The Blue Ridge Parkway

Exploring the blue ridge parkway.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469-mile scenic roadway that stretches from Shenandoah National Park in Virginia, through the Blue Ridge Mountains, and down to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Western North Carolina. Along the way, it weaves among mountain peaks and forested coves, connecting visitors to hiking trails and waterfalls , wildflowers , wildlife and countless breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

“America’s Favorite Drive,” as the Parkway is often known, is free to visit and is open year-round (though closures for ice and snow are common in winter; check the Parkway’s real-time closure updates for details).

The Blue Ridge Parkway is navigated by mileposts — often abbreviated “MP” — starting at the northern end with MP 0 in Virginia and ending at the southern end with MP 469 near Cherokee, N.C.

Top Blue Ridge Parkway Destinations

Be sure to check out these popular Parkway stops during your visit:

• Linville Falls (MP 316.3) — A stunning triple waterfall created as the Linville River cascades into Linville Gorge. Multiple hiking trails offer access to views of the falls.
• Orchard at Altapass (MP 328.3) — A 100-year-old apple orchard dedicated to preserving the history, heritage and culture of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Enjoy live music, “heyrides,” walking trails, a general store filled with locally crafted goodies and, of course, U-pick apples in the fall.
• Museum of NC Minerals (MP 331) — Explore hands-on exhibits about the history of mining in the area and learn about the forces that created the Blue Ridge Mountains. Gem mining enthusiasts will also want to visit Emerald Village , a collection of mining attractions located about six miles away.
• Little Switzerland (MP 334) — This unique mountain village is modeled after the architecture of Swiss chalets and offers stunning views, plus dining and shopping.
• Mount Mitchell (MP 355.4) — Visitors can stand atop the highest point in the Eastern United States for a birds-eye view of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Drive to a parking lot near the summit, or challenge yourself to a hike among the park’s alpine forests. Admission to Mount Mitchell State Park is free.

Favorite Blue Ridge Parkway Hikes & Waterfalls

Whether you’re seeking mountaintop views or awe-inspiring waterfalls, these hiking trails near the Blue Ridge Parkway are sure to impress:

• Chestoa View (MP 320.8) — This quarter-mile trail begins at the overlook at MP 320.8 and leads to a small observation platform with a BIG view! At an elevation of 4,090 feet, it’s possible to see Grandfather Mountain, Table Rock and more of the beautiful Linville Gorge.
• Crabtree Falls (MP 339.5) — Enjoy hiking a 3-mile woodland trail to see a stunning 60-foot waterfall that is beautiful in all seasons. Pack a lunch to enjoy at the picnic area, which is also a prime spot to view wildflowers in spring.
• Roaring Fork Creek Falls (MP 344) — Exit the Parkway onto NC Hwy 80 and drive north for two miles to access this easy 1-mile trail to the zigzagging Roaring Fork Creek Falls.
• Setrock Creek Falls (MP 344) — Also located off NC Hwy 80 about 5 miles from the Parkway, this four-layered waterfall is accessible via an easy, half-mile trail.
• Craggy Pinnacle Trail (MP 364.1) — This popular half-mile trail ends at a beautiful overlook, offering 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains. Visit in late May or early June for a peek at the flowering rhododendrons.

Planning Your Visit to the Blue Ridge Parkway

Area visitors can access the Blue Ridge Parkway from US 221 in Linville Falls (MP 317.4), from Highway 226 at the Museum of N.C. Minerals (MP 331) or from NC Hwy 80 at MP 344 (about 18 miles from Marion ).

Knowledgeable rangers provide information at Parkway Visitors Center from May through October:

• Linville Falls Visitor Center (MP 316.4)
• Museum of North Carolina Minerals (MP 331) — This visitor center is open year-round.
• Craggy Gardens Visitor Center (MP 364.5)
• Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center in Asheville (MP 384.5) — This visitor center is open year-round.

Places to stay near the Blue Ridge Parkway include several lodges, inns, and motels plus cabins and privately owned campgrounds near Little Switzerland , as well as private vacation rentals through Airbnb, VRBO and similar listings. Public campgrounds are open seasonally at Crabtree Falls (MP 339.5) and Mount Mitchell State Park (MP 355.4).

Learn more about exploring the Blue Ridge Parkway in the Blue Ridge Traveler's Visitor Guide. Download your guide here .

Participating Attractions

Linville Falls

Visit Linville Falls, an amazing three-tiered waterfall along the Blue Ridge Parkway. With many ways to access the falls, it is one of the most popular spots!

Crabtree Falls

The hike to the gorgeous Crabtree Falls waterfall in Little Switzerland is on a moderate 2.5 mile trail. It is located right off the Blue Ridge Parkway!

Historic Orchard at Altapass

The Historic Orchard at Altapass in Little Switzerland is a must-visit from May through October! Experience music, hay rides, treats, storytelling and more!

Artisan League of Little Switzerland Art Gallery

Located in downtown Little Switzerland, the Artisan League of Little Switzerland Art Gallery features ceramics, jewelry, paintings, and more by local artists!

Switzerland Cafe and General Store

For over 30 years, the cafe has been serving homemade sandwiches, soups and quiche. Their Applewood smoked, pulled pork BBQ…

Little Switzerland Books and Beans

In downtown Little Switzerland, you'll find the most unique three-story bookstore and coffee shop! Explore the many shelves and treasures of this gem!

Shops at Switzerland Inn

The Shops at Switzerland Inn offers some of the best, most unique seasonal shopping in the area, with a wide selection of handmade goods from local artisans!

Blue Ridge Parkway

• Highest Peaks
• Music Festivals
• Music Venues
• Live Music Events
• Music Stores
• Visitor Information
• Getting Here
• Getting Around
• Parking Information
• Visitors Guide
• Arts Attractions
• Historic Attractions
• Indoor Games & Entertainment
• Movies & TV
• Nature Attractions
• Birding & Wildlife
• Golf & Tennis
• Guides & Outfitters
• Horseback Riding
• Spectator Sports
• Water Sports
• Winter Sports
• Clothing & Jewelry
• Crafts & Fine Arts
• Farmers Markets
• Outlets & Shopping Centers
• Biltmore Park
• Biltmore Village
• Black Mountain
• River Arts District
• Weaverville
• West Asheville
• Specialty Shops
• Toys & Children’s Stores
• Cinema & Film
• Galleries & Studios
• Performing Arts
• Spas & Wellness
• Brewery, Winery, & Distillery
• Concierge Services
• Black Cultural Heritage Trail
• Black Asheville
• Weekly Fall Color Report
• Scenic Drives
• Pet-Friendly
• Itineraries
• Things to Do This Weekend
• Submit an Event
• Hotels & Resorts
• Cabins & Cottages
• Bed & Breakfast Inns
• Campgrounds & Hostels
• 12 Bones Smokehouse
• 67 Biltmore
• Addison Farms Vineyard
• Asheville Distilling Company
• Biltmore Coffee Traders
• Blue Ridge Food Ventures
• Burial Beer Co.
• The Cantina
• Carolina Bison
• Chai Pani, Botiwalla & Spicewalla
• The Chocolate Fetish
• Corner Kitchen & Chestnut
• Farm & Sparrow and All Souls Pizza
• Gan Shan Station
• Green Sage Cafe
• French Broad Chocolate Lounge
• Hickory Nut Gap Farm
• Highland Brewing Company
• Isa’s Bistro
• Jerusalem Garden Cafe
• Little Pigs BBQ
• The Lobster Trap
• Luella’s Bar-B-Que
• The Market Place
• No Taste Like Home
• Omni Grove Park Inn
• Rocky’s Hot Chicken Shack
• Rosetta’s Kitchen
• Short Street Cakes
• Sunburst Trout Farms
• Sunny Point Café
• Tupelo Honey Cafe
• Urban Orchard Cider Co.
• Vinnie’s Neighborhood Italian
• Vortex Doughnuts
• Well-Bred Bakery & Cafe
• Wicked Weed Brewing
• Historic Biltmore Village
• All Asheville Restaurants
• Wine & Craft Beverage
• Food Adventures & Culinary Experiences
• Farms & Farmers Markets
• Guilt-Free Recipes
• Chef Favorites
• From Local Inns
• Only in Asheville
• Holiday Recipes
• Moderate Hikes
• Difficult Hikes
• Asheville Hike Finder
• Great Smoky Mountains
• Pisgah National Forest
• DuPont State Forest
• Chimney Rock State Park
• Grandfather Mountain
• Mount Mitchell
• Gorges State Park
• Attractions & Adventures
• Hike Finder Tool
• Biltmore Packages
• Lodging Packages
• Lodging Deals
• Attraction/Experience Offers

Along the highest ridge tops of the Southern Appalachians, the Blue Ridge Parkway serves as the gateway to incredible outdoor adventure and breathtaking mountain vistas.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is part of the National Park Service and is known as America's Favorite Scenic Drive. The 469-mile ribbon of road weaves around the peaks of the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains connecting Shenandoah National Park (Virginia) and Great Smoky Mountains National Park (North Carolina). As the Parkway approaches Asheville, it offers breathtaking views of some of the highest peaks east of the Mississippi River and access to the area's best hiking trails. The Parkway is easy to explore with no admission fee and frequent, paved overlooks.

Top Things to Do on the Blue Ridge Parkway

1. Scenic Drives: The best and easiest way to explore the Blue Ridge Parkway is to go for a drive! Drive for 10 miles or 50—it's all up to you! And, it's easy to create an experience that fits with your itinerary of other things to do in Asheville .

2. Hiking: The Blue Ridge Parkway is known for providing access to some of the best hiking trails in the nation. Whether you're looking for a short, easy hike or a more challenging trek, you'll find it on the Parkway. The forested trails lead to everything from 360-degree views to thundering waterfalls.  See our guide to the best Blue Ridge Parkway hikes . Find your perfect Asheville hiking trail! Use our  Asheville Hike Finder  to easily filter by distance from downtown, trail length and difficulty level.

3. Picnicking: The dramatic views found on the Blue Ridge Parkway make for unforgettable picnic spots .

4. Biking: Bike the Blue Ridge Parkway for an outdoor adventure, and workout, like no other. See our guide to road biking adventures .

Top Places to Visit on the Blue Ridge Parkway  

From natural wonders to an art gallery/shop, these are highlights of the Blue Ridge Parkway near Asheville. Distances from downtown Asheville are shown in parenthesis. 

North of Asheville

• Craggy Gardens  — Milepost 364.4: Breathtaking views await you here at elevation 5,640 feet. Craggy Gardens is home to a National Park Service visitor center, shop and restroom facilities. ( 24 miles, 35 minutes )    

• Mount Mitchell  — Milepost 355.4: Explore the tallest mountain east of the Mississippi River. You can drive nearly all the way to the summit. From the parking area it is just a half-mile hike to reach the observation deck and enjoy the long-range mountain views. Mount Mitchell also has a museum, gift shop, restaurant (open during spring to fall) and restrooms. ( 35 miles, 1 hour )

South of Asheville

• Folk Art Center — Milepost 382: This popular stop on the Parkway offers you the opportunity to view and purchase some of the region's best arts and crafts. The Folk Art Center hosts craft demonstrations and events throughout the year. ( 6 miles, 10 minutes ) 
• Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center — Milepost 382: Pick up maps, ask questions, see interactive exhibits and purchase souvenirs. ( 6 miles, 10 minutes )
• Mount Pisgah - Milepost 407.6: See Asheville's most iconic peak up close and personal. (26 miles, 40 minutes)  
• Graveyard Fields  — Milepost 417: This area, named for its unique landscape, offers relatively easy hiking trails to access to two waterfalls. ( 37 miles, 55 minutes )

• Black Balsam — Milepost 420.2: Black Balsam is a local and visitor favorite for hiking, especially on the popular Art Loeb Trail. (40 miles, 1 hour) 
• Devil's Courthouse — Milepost 422.4: A large parking area provides a view of this unique rock formation. A strenuous hike takes you to the top for near 360-degree views. (42 miles, 1 hr. 5 minutes)

Plan Your Visit to the Blue Ridge Parkway

What to know about the blue ridge parkway.

• COST: It is FREE to drive the Blue Ridge Parkway. There is no admission fee.
• HOURS: The Blue Ridge Parkway is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week year-round. However, the Parkway may close due to snow or ice. For real time road information, please see the interactive road closures map on the National Park Service web site.
• HOW TO NAVIGATE: There are stone markers at every mile along the Blue Ridge Parkway. These numbered mile markers are your guide for locating top attractions and overlooks.  
• SPEED LIMIT: The Blue Ridge Parkway has a speed limit of 45 MPH , making for a leisurely drive. There are many paved overlooks where you can stop to rest, see the view or take photos.
• GAS: There are no gas stations on the Blue Ridge Parkway . But gas is available just off the Parkway at several major intersections with US or state highways. We recommend filling up your tank before driving on the Parkway.
• VEHICLES THAT CAN DRIVE THE PARKWAY: All non-commercial vehicles are welcome on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

How to get on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Asheville

In the Asheville area, there are four main entrances to the Blue Ridge Parkway. There are roadside signs before and at each of these entrances.

• US Highway 70 and Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 382.6. Close by: Blue Ridge Parkway Folk Art Center, East Asheville, Interstate 40
• US Highway 74A and Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost: 384.7. Close by: Blue Ridge Park Visitor Center , the town of Fairview , East Asheville, Interstate 40
• US Highway 25 and Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 388.8: Close by: Biltmore (three miles north), South Asheville
• NC Highway 191 and Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 393.6: Close by: The North Carolina Arboretum , Asheville Outlets , Interstate 26.

Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center

Asheville is home to the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center . Pick up maps, ask questions, see interactive exhibits or purchase a souvenir. The Visitor Center is located at Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 384.

When using a GPS, use the following address:  195 Hemphill Knob Rd., Asheville .

Trip Planning and History of the Blue Ridge Parkway

Check out our interactive Blue Ridge Parkway travel guide , and learn about the Explorers of the Blue Ridge Parkway .

Blue Ridge Parkway History

The idea for the Blue Ridge Parkway was born during the Great Depression in the early 1930s when President Franklin Delano Roosevelt visited the newly constructed Skyline Drive in Virginia.

Virginia Senator Harry Byrd suggested the road could be extended to connect with Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. In 1933, the Interior Secretary approved the project with a budget of $16 million. After debate over the route, namely whether or not it would go through Asheville, plans were finalized.

With architects Gilmore Clark and Stanley Abbot at the helm, construction soon began on September 11, 1935. The architects put a major emphasis on preserving nature and Appalachian culture and history.

When World War II began, about 170 miles of the Blue Ridge Parkway had been completed and were open to the public. A 10-year development plan in the 1950s helped spur the remaining construction. And by 1966, all but 7.7 miles of the Parkway (a stretch at Grandfather Mountain, North Carolina) had been finished.

To finish the project, the Linn Cove Viaduct was constructed. This engineering feat, a 1,243-foot concrete bridge, was constructed from the top down to limit effects on the natural environment.

With the Viaduct in place, the Blue Ridge Parkway was finally complete. The Parkway officially opened on September 11, 1987—exactly 52 after construction began.

In the years since, the Blue Ridge Parkway has become the most visited National Park Service site.

Dive deeper into the history of the Blue Ridge Parkway, meet the people who paved the way for its creation and see more trip ideas by checking out our interactive Blue Ridge Parkway travel guide: Explorers of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Search Lodging

Search B&Bs or Cabins & Rentals

Sign up for your free Visitor Guide. Your Asheville story begins here.

For Visitors

For Planners

For Partners

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

autumn journeys

8 Places to Visit Along Virginia’s Blue Ridge Parkway

With an autumnal ombré and cooler temperatures, fall is prime time for journeying along this Appalachian Mountain roadway.

By Marissa Hermanson

With its sweeping vistas and meandering nature, the Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic delight year-round. But fall is the most celebrated season on the Appalachian Mountain road, when the winding two-lane boulevard is a spectacle with the golden glow of leaves and cool mountain mist. And as we continue to worry about the spread of the coronavirus, a road trip with fresh air and panoramic views lends itself nicely to traveling.

APPALACHIAN

BLUE RIDGE PKWY.

Natural Bridge State Park/

Cedar Creek Trail/

Pine Tree Overlook

Peaks of Otter Lodge/

Sharp Top Mountain/

Roanoke Star/

Mill Mountain Park

Dogtown Roadhouse/

Floyd Country Store

Chateau morrisette winery.

Rocky Knob Recreation Area

Meadows of Dan

Mabry Mill/

Poor Farmers Market

NORTH CAROLINA

Constructed in segments from 1935 — part of Roosevelt’s New Deal — through 1987, the 469-mile parkway connects Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park to North Carolina’s Great Smoky Mountains National Park and is our country’s longest linear park. It can take a week to drive if you want to loll and linger, making many stops along the way.

A shorter, 177-mile stretch, from the road’s starting point in Afton, Va., to Meadows of Dan, Va., can be done in three days. Well-known points of interest on this section of the drive include Mabry Mill (Milepost 176), one of the most photographed stops of the parkway, and scenic pull-offs like Pine Tree Overlook (Milepost 95.2) and Roanoke River Gorge (Milepost 114.9). But venturing off the beaten path, by grabbing a meal or exploring a lesser-known hiking trail, is part of the serendipitous charm of journeying along the old scenic motorway. Here are eight of the parkway's most notable detours:

Natural Bridge State Park

Pull off the parkway where it crosses the James River near the enclave of Big Island (Milepost 63.7) and follow U.S. 501 to State Route 130 for 16 miles along the river. The Natural Bridge, a 215-foot-tall limestone arch, was once owned by Thomas Jefferson and George Washington allegedly chiseled his initials on the rock face while surveying the bridge. Frontiersmen like Daniel Boone saw the geological formation as the gateway to the West.

To view the bridge, follow Cedar Creek Trail from the park’s visitor center about a mile. Standing at the base, it’s incredible to think that the giant gorge was carved by the gentle creek that flows beneath it. Continue past the arch to Lace Falls, the 30-foot cascade that marks the end of the trail.

Currently, shuttle service is no longer available and the park’s Monacan Indian exhibit is closed. Unvaccinated guests are required to wear face coverings inside park facilities and outside where social distancing is not possible. (6477 South Lee Highway, Natural Bridge, Va. Age 3-12, $6. Age 13 and older, $9. Parking, $5 per car at trailheads.)

Peaks of Otter Lodge

After checking in at this rustic 63-room lodge right off the parkway (Milepost 86), an early evening stroll around Abbott Lake is recommended, as enjoying a drink at the bar, eating comfort food in the dining room and then embracing the serenity of the lodge’s quiet hours from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m.

Particularly during the pandemic, the motel-style exterior entrances to suites are a boon, while a private patio or balcony offers an al fresco perch with views of Sharp Top Mountain and beyond.

The lodge traditionally closes after Thanksgiving, but this year plans to close Nov. 7. Other pandemic protocol changes include reduced hours and a limited menu for the dining room and bar, along with the addition of a grab-and-go food section. (85554 Blue Ridge Parkway, Bedford, Va. Nightly room rates start at $160.)

Sharp Top Mountain

Follow up your stay at the lodge with a 3-mile round-trip hike on neighboring Sharp Top Mountain. Access the trailhead across the parkway from the Peaks of Otter Visitor Center, and prepare yourself for a steep ascent, where you’ll encounter several flights of stone steps on the trail. At the top of the 3,875-foot peak, you’re greeted by an old stone shelter and rewarded with 360-degree views. If a high-intensity hike isn’t your idea of fun, purchase tickets at the lodge to ride the shuttle, which will drop you 1,500 feet from the top. (Milepost 86, round-trip shuttle tickets: $12 for adults and $6 for ages 2 to 12. One way: $10 for adults and $5 for ages 2 to 12.)

Roanoke Star

Exit the parkway at Mill Mountain Park (Milepost 120) and drive three miles to see the Roanoke Star, an 88.5-foot Christmas decoration erected in the 1940s. After the city of Roanoke fell in love with it, the star was never taken down and is illuminated every evening.

Gather at the star’s overlook for a photo op and take in views of downtown Roanoke. The 568-acre Mill Mountain Park is also home to a zoo, a children’s discovery center with nature programs and exhibits, and miles of hiking trails; so, if you’re traveling with children, plan to explore. (2198 Mill Mountain Spur, Roanoke, Va.)

A few hundred yards off the parkway in the town of Meadows of Dan (Milepost 177.7), fuel up your car and grab lunch at this old-fashioned country store that serves home cooking like sausage-and-chicken biscuits ($2.65), barbecue sandwiches ($5.50) and potato salad made with mountain-grown spuds (starting at $3.25). Outside, the open-air market carries locally grown produce, and this time of year you’ll find cabbage, apples and potatoes.

Work up an appetite by spending the morning traversing woods and meadows on the Rock Castle Gorge Trail at Rocky Knob Recreation Area (Milepost 167). Then you can enjoy sandwiches on the store’s covered porch, joined by the owner’s friendly cats. (2616 Jeb Stuart Highway, Meadows of Dan, Va.)

If you have time to explore this neck of the woods, also visit Mabry Mill (Milepost 176) for an obligatory photo op, and then head five miles down the parkway to the winery (Milepost 171.5) for mountain views and a taste of Virginia terroir with a mix of red and white varietals. While the winery’s restaurant is closed and traditional tastings are on pause, you can purchase a flight ($10) or bottle ($8 to $26) on the crush pad and grab lunch from the hut. (291 Winery Road Southwest, Floyd, Va.)

Dogtown Roadhouse

With FloydFest , an annual summer music festival in July, the laid-back mountain town of Floyd is on the map as a music destination. Visit this honky-tonk six miles off the parkway (Milepost 165) for performances on weekend evenings, when you can listen to regional acts playing blues, funk, and Americana and jam bands. Hungry? The pandemic has forced the Roadhouse to slightly scale back hours and its menu, but you can still pair a Virginia craft beer with “The Appalachian” pizza ($15), which in lieu of marinara sauce uses apple butter made by the local volunteer fire department, and is topped with sausage, caramelized onion, aged white Cheddar and goat cheese. (302 South Locust Street, Floyd, Va. Tickets range from $8 to $30.)

For more music, just a block from the pizza parlor is the Floyd Country Store, which hosts its Friday Night Jamborees. The weekly old-time and bluegrass music sessions, with flatfoot dancing, are lively outside gatherings. (206 South Locust Street, Floyd, Va. Tickets are $12 for reserved seating, $8 for adults, $5 for children age 7-12, free for children 6 and younger)

Note: Be sure to call ahead to any destination, as operating hours or services may have changed because of the coronavirus. And at many facilities along the Blue Ridge Parkway, including those run by the National Park Service, masks are mandatory indoors and in crowded outdoor spaces, regardless of vaccination status.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram , Twitter and Facebook . And sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to receive expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places list for 2021 .

Exploring the Outdoors, One Step at a Time

Hiking is a great way to immerse yourself in nature and tune out the chaos of city life. the tips below will help you get ready before you hit the trail..

Hiking offers a host of mental and physical benefits. If you’re new to it, here’s how to get started .

Fourteen years and one Apple App of the Year award in, AllTrails has become something rare: a tool that works for both experts and newbies .

Make sure you have the right gear . Wirecutter has recommendations for anything you might need — from hydration packs  to trekking poles . And remember to try on hiking boots  at the right time of the day .

These clever apps and devices  will help you to find your way, triage an injury and generally stay out of trouble on the trail.

Planning to venture out for a nighttime  hike ? Opt for wide, easy-to-navigate paths.

Experts say failing to alert family or friends of your plans is one of the biggest mistakes hikers make. Here are some more safety tips .

70 Top Things to Do on the Blue Ridge Parkway, a Bucket List

Top things to do on the blue ridge parkway.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469-mile scenic drive through the Appalachian Mountains from Shenandoah National Park to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. If you are planning a trip to the Blue Ridge Parkway and looking for the best things to do, see and eat while visiting, you are in the right place. The parkway travels through North Carolina and Virginia and is America’s longest scenic highway. On the drive, you will find 200+ scenic overlooks, 26 tunnels, waterfalls, swimming holes, hollows, gorges, forests, hiking trails, Spring flowers, Fall colors, Bluegrass music, swinging bridges, scenic train rides, historic farms, country stores, and farmer’s markets, the famous Biltmore Estate , Andy Griffith’s Mayberry, Cherokee history, wineries, apple picking, trout fishing, elk, black bears, and wild turkeys. Scan this bucket list of top things to do, see, and eat while on the Blue Ridge Parkway to ensure you don’t miss a thing. Enjoy your time out of the office!

Read 10 Day Blue Ridge Parkway and Great Smoky Mountains Road Trip Planner

Things to Do on the Blue Ridge Parkway

Enter the Blue Ridge Parkway at mile 0

Get your passport stamp and check out the Outdoor Farm Museum at Humpback Rocks Visitor Center, Milepost 5.8

Photograph the Shenandoah Valley from Ravens Roost Overlook, Milepost 10.7

Walk to the base of Crabtree Falls, Milepost 27

Walk up the steps to a reconstructed section of the Irish Creek Railway at Yankee Horse Ridge, Milepost 34.4

Photograph the Natural Bridge, Milepost 61.6

Check out the stone dam at Otter Lake Overlook, Milepost 63.1

Walk the .4-mile Trail of Trees loop at James River Visitor Center, Milepost 63.7

Stop at Thunder Ridge Overlook directly above the Appalachian Trail, Milepost 74.7

Enjoy a glass of cider at Apple Orchard Mountain Overlook, Milepost 76.5

Explore the historic Johnson Farm to see what life on a farm was like in the late 1800s, Milepost 86

Check out the historic settlement at Explore Park, Milepost 115

Visit the little zoo at Mill Mountain Parkway, Milepost 120.4

Stop at the Floyd Country Store for the Friday Night Jamboree, Milepost 165.2

Eat pancakes and take a photo of the waterwheel at the Mabry Mill, Milepost 176.1

Browse an old-fashioned country store at the Poor Farmer’s Market, Milepost 177

Listen to Bluegrass on The Crooked Road Music Trail, Milepost 177.7

Check out the Mayberry Trading Post old country store, Milepost 180

Climb the tower at the Groundhog Mountain Overlook, Milepost 189

Photograph the Puckett Cabin, Milepost 189.9

Step back in time to Andy Griffith’s Mayberry, Milepost 200

Enjoy the Mid-Day Mountain Music at the Blue Ridge Music Center, Milepost 213

Cross the Virginia-North Carolina border, Milepost 216.9

Photograph the rolling hills at Fox Hunter’s Paradise Overlook, Milepost 218.6

Visit Brinegar Cabin, a 1930’s homestead, Milepost 239

See the view from the top of Cumberland Knob, Milepost 217.5

Photograph the reflection of the trees on the water at Little Glade Mill Pond, Milepost 230.1

Enjoy the view from the Devil’s Garden Viewpoint, Milepost 235.7

Photograph the hollow at Doughton Park, Milepost 241.1

Check out the Jumpinoff Rocks Viewpoint, Milepost 260.6

Hike the 1-mile Cascade Falls loop at E.B. Jeffress Park, Milepost 271.9

Stop by the Blowing Rock and watch objects float upward, Milepost 291.9

Ride the Tweetsie Railroad in Boone, Milepost 292.1

Check out the Parkway Craft Center at Moses H. Cone Memorial Park, Mileposts 292-295

Photograph the refection of Grandfather Mountain on the water at Julian Price Lake Overlook, Milepost 296.7

Stretch your legs on the 2-mile RT hike to Hebron Falls, Milepost 297

Hike to Lion King Rock at Rough Ridge, Milepost 302.8

Hike to the bridge at Wilson Creek to view the cascading water, Milepost 303

Photograph the s curve of the Linn Cove Viaduct from the Yonahlossee Overlook, Milepost 303.9

Drive across the Linn Cove Viaduct, Milepost 304

Hike the Tanawha Trail for Linn Cove Viaduct views, Milepost 304

Walk Across the Mile-High Swinging Bridge at Grandfather Mountain, Milepost 305

Hang out on the viewing platform over the water of Linville Falls, Milepost 316

Stop for the view at Chestoa View Overlook, Milepost 320.7

Sip on a glass of cider at the Orchard at Altapass, Milepost 328

Shop for souvenirs in Little Switzerland, Milepost 331

Take a black light mine tour at Emerald Village, Milepost 334

Watch Horn in the West outdoor drama about Daniel Boone’s adventures in Boone

Take the 3-mile RT hike to Crabtree Falls, Milepost 340

Check out the view from the observation deck at Mt. Mitchell State Park, Milepost 355.4

Photograph Glassmine Falls across the valley from the Glassmine Falls Overlook, Milepost 361.2

See the rhododendron garden in bloom (June) at Craggy Gardens Milepost 364

Take the Craggy Knob Trail to see where The Hunger Games was filmed, Milepost 364

Grab an Appalachian souvenir at the Folk Art Center, Milepost 382

Visit the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center, Milepost 384

Ride the elevator to the top of Chimney Rock and take in the views, Milepost 384.7

Tour the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, Milepost 388.8

Check out the fall colors from the top of Mount Pisgah, Milepost 408.6

Hike the 1.4-mile Forest Festival Trail to a 1914 Climax locomotive in the woods, Milepost 412

Slide down a waterfall at Sliding Rock, Milepost 412

Check out Looking Glass Falls Located off Highway 276

Jump on the swimming hole at Skinny Dip Falls, Milepost 417

Hike the Graveyard Fields 1.1-mile loop to Second Falls, Milepost 418.8

Check out the view at the Caney Fork Overlook, Milepost 428

Take a selfie with the sign marking the highest point on the Blue Ridge Parkway, Milepost 431.4

Stop at the Mt. Lyn Lowry and Woodfin Cascades Overlooks, Mileposts 445/446

Hike the .6 miles to the Waterrock Knob Trail and Visitor Center, Milepost 451

Snap a photo of Rattlesnake Mountain Tunnel, Milepost 465

Watch the Unto The Hills performance of Cherokee history at the outdoor theater in Cherokee

Go for a ride on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad in Cherokee

Blue Ridge Parkway Itinerary

There is a tremendous amount of things to do on the Blue Ridge Parkway and some adorable towns to spend the night in. I recommend breaking the trip into sections. Mt Airy, Blowing Rock, Asheville, and Cherokee are great overnight spots. Cell and GPS services are not reliable along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Be sure to identify the points of interest and mileposts you are most interested in before your trip and bring a printed itinerary with you. Be flexible, I spent 4 days exploring the area and only had time to do ¼ of what I tentatively planned.

Consider flying in/out of Charlotte North Carolina or Washington DC. It is worth adding a few days to your trip to visit Gatlinburg and Knoxville Tennessee . Consult the Blue Ridge Fall Foliage Forecast and plan to travel from mid to late October if you are traveling to see the Fall colors. Note that trees begin to change colors at higher elevations first.

Be sure to check the Blue Ridge Parkway Association website for upcoming festivals, special events, and what’s happening during your stay.

Bookmark and Pin Things to Do on the Blue Ridge Parkway

Plan Your Trip to Blue Ridge Parkway North Carolina

North carolina travel guide.

Download an ebook, phrasebook, map, or bundle directly from Lonely Planet , or pick up a North Carolina Travel Guide from Amazon.com to browse on the plane.

Book Your Accommodation in North Carolina Now

Spending the night? Search Booking.com and VRBO in one place to find to perfect property!

Blue Ridge Parkway Attractions and Day Tours

The best attractions sell out! Don’t chance it, get your tickets now and relax when you arrive.

Travel Essentials

Need a universal travel adaptor, power bank charger, or packing cubes? Save time at my Amazon shop and have travel essentials delivered to your home.

Have a great vacation!

Blue ridge parkway looks amazing. Things to do list in the blog is very helpful in exploring the parkway as well as to capture moment from perfect spot to get beautiful pictures

Wow these are some awesome activities to look at doing on the Blue Ridge parkway. The Appalachian Mountains drive during the fall would be so wonderful!.Visiting the Great Smoky Mountains National Parks would be high in my priority. Hiking the 1-mile Cascade Falls loop at E.B.Jeffress Park would be a fun activity I would love to do.

I first learnt about this part of the country when I read the Bill Bryson book about hiking the Appalachian trail. Ever since, I have wanted to visit it. But until I read your blog, I had no idea there were so many things to do there. I will keep it in mind for when I ever get to visit!

I have heard my friend say good things about Blue Ridge Parkway. The list sounds endless and it does make me curious. The hikes, the photography points, the fall foliage, mine tour at Emerald Village, the mountains and more sounds great.

It was certainly beautiful during the Fall. I would like to return in the summer and do a few more things

I thought you must hike a long trail to the Chimney Rock! But I also wonder with so many people visited the place. Now I know the reason. Haha… There are so many things to do here. I know my husband would like to stop at Mayberry. We saw the Blue Ridge through the highway last January, and I know I must make a visit here. Hopefully this Christmas vacation or summer next year.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is high on my bucket list. I have been into road trips lately and this sounds like the perfect one! I would love to stop at all of the overlook areas for some great photos. Fall sounds like the perfect time to visit, I’m sure the autumn colors make the drive even more enjoyable!

So fun! I live in VA, and we JUST did a lot of this over the weekend. We got out at Crabtree Falls and a lot of the overlooks. It’s a gorgeous time of year to be on the parkway for sure!

The scenery along the Blue Ridge Parkway makes me want to plan a road trip. I always wondered where Mayberry RFD was based. I remember watching the show when I was young. I like your #17 (listening to Bluegrass).

It was fun to look around Mayberry, there was even a little area the resembled the set

Wow, driving through the Appalachian Mountains during the fall foliage looks wonderful! I’ve never heard of the Blue Ridge Parkway, but it looks like a terrific drive. I’d love to visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Parks, so I appreciate the detailed information. How long did it take you to drive the 469 mile scenic drive?

I did not do the whole drive, I started in Mount Airy and spent 5 days going South to Cherokee

What a great list of to-dos! Would love to take this drive in the fall and do a few waterfall hikes.

Comments are closed.

Why You Need to Visit the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center (MP 384)

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. All hosted affiliate links follow our editorial & privacy policies .

Whether you’re taking your very first Blue Ridge Parkway road trip or– like us– you’ve explored the scenic route multiple times, a visit to the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center is a must!

Located near Downtown Asheville , just 2.4 miles south of the Southern Highland Craft Guild Folk Art Center , the Visitor Center is essentially a one-stop shop for everything you need to know about the BRP. 

This is one of over a dozen different Visitor Centers located along the 469-mile scenic route, which was built to connect Great Smoky Mountains National Park in NC to Shenandoah National Park in VA. 

But the one located at Milepost 384 is the official Blue Ridge Parkway Headquarters, and offers an array of exhibits on the cultural, natural, and recreational resources of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains . 

Read on to learn why you need to visit the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center in Asheville, including an overview of all the exhibits, amenities, and attractions you’ll find there! 

READ MORE: How to Plan an Amazing Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip

Need a hotel near the BRP Visitor Center ? Check out our recommendations!

• GLo Hotel Asheville-Blue Ridge Parkway    (3-star hotel w/free breakfast & indoor pool)
• Best Western Asheville-Blue Ridge Parkway   (Pet-friendly hotel with breakfast & pool)
• Holiday Inn Asheville East-Blue Ridge Pkwy    (Budget & pet-friendly, quiet w/heated pool)
• Cambria Hotel Downtown Asheville (Great views, stylish interior & rooftop terrace)
• Mountain Springs Cabins (We loved these pet-friendly cabins 10 minutes west of Asheville)

Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center Info 

ADDRESS: 195 Hemphill Knob Rd, Asheville NC (BRP Milepost 384)

PHONE NUMBER: 828-298-5330

OFFICIAL WEBSITE

HOURS:   Open daily from 9 AM to 4:30 PM (except major holidays).

ADMISSION:   Free

Driving Directions from Downtown Asheville

From Downtown Asheville , take   Haywood St.  towards  College St. After 0.3 miles, t urn  right  onto  I-240 E. Go 4.2 miles, then keep right  to continue on  US-74 ALT E , following signs for the Blue Ridge Parkway . In 1 mile, exit towards the  BRP and turn right onto it in 0.2 miles. Go 0.7 miles, then t urn left onto Hemphill Knob Rd. The BRP Visitor Center will be on the left in 0.2 miles. 

READ MORE: The 15 Best Blue Ridge Parkway Hotels & Cabin Rentals in NC & VA

Things to Do at the BRP Visitor Center

Learn About Blue Ridge Parkway History 

If you’re interested in learning more about the 90+ year history of the Blue Ridge Parkway , the Visitor Center is a great place to start. 

There are all sorts of exhibits about the construction of the world-renowned scenic route, the engineering marvel known as the Linn Cove Viaduct, and the mid-20th Century heyday of auto touring in the USA. 

They also have a 70-seat surround sound theater that regularly shows a 24-minute film, “The Blue Ridge Parkway-America’s Favorite Journey.”

This movie follows a father-daughter road trip along the Blue Ridge Parkway , incorporating its fascinating history as well as the stunning sights you’ll see while driving the 469-mile route today. 

READ MORE: The 20 Best Blue Ridge Parkway Restaurants in VA & NC

Plan Your Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip

There are more than 200 Blue Ridge Parkway Overlooks in Virginia and North Carolina, not to mention hundreds of incredible hiking trails, waterfalls, historic sites, state parks, and charming mountain towns .

Whether you’re planning to explore the entire 469-mile route or just one of the four main sections, figuring out the must-see places to go and things to do can be challenging for even the most organized travelers. 

The Visitor Center has a ginormous detailed map of the Blue Ridge Parkway, as well as an information desk staffed by knowledgable rangers who can help answer your travel questions. 

There’s also a regional visitor info desk staffed by the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area , a non-profit that preserves and promotes the natural and cultural heritage of Western NC and the Qualla Boundary .

READ MORE: The 20 Best Blue Ridge Parkway Overlooks in NC & VA

Hiking & Picnicking

During our first Blue Ridge Parkway road trip in 2020, we enjoyed a lovely lunch at a picnic table right in the Visitor Center parking lot. 

But there’s also a 1.5-mile TRACK Trail loop that begins in the parking lot (which is right off the BRP) and follows along a small portion of the 1,175-mile Mountains-to-Sea Trail . 

Created by Kids in Parks , TRACK Trails are designed to engage children and their families in activities that get them outdoors and connected to nature.

Kids can track their outdoor adventures in an online journal, log their miles of hiking trails completed, see the badges they’ve earned, and receive prizes in the mail. 

It’s a great way to get kids excited about exploring the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains !

READ MORE: The 25 Best Blue Ridge Parkway Waterfalls in North Carolina

Explore Nearby Blue Ridge Parkway Attractions

Even if you’re not planning a full-on road trip, the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center in Asheville offers proximity to some of our favorite BRP overlooks, hiking trails, and other attractions.

Our favorite Blue Ridge Parkway overlooks in the area include View Chestnut Cove (Milepost 398.3), the French Broad Overlook (MP 393.8), the Tanbark Ridge Overlook (MP 376.7), and View Craggy Dome (MP 364.1).

In addition the Visitor Center Loop, other popular Blue Ridge Parkway hikes nearby include the moderately difficult Craggy Pinnacle Trail (MP 364.2, o.7 miles), the strenuous Mt. Pisgah Summit Trail (MP 407.6, 1.3 miles), and the relatively easy Buck Springs Trail (MP 407.6, 1.06 miles). 

Other nearby BRP attractions include the Southern Highland Craft Guild’s Folk Art Center (MP 382), the Craggy Gardens Visitor Center  (MP 364.7), and the array of incredible North Carolina waterfalls (including Looking Glass Falls, Moore Cove Falls, and Sliding Rock) along Hwy 276 (MP 411). 

All are worth visiting if you can make time!  –by Bret Love; all photos by Bret Love & Mary Gabbett

We encourage anyone who loves the Blue Ridge region to learn about the  Leave No Trace   principles of responsible environmental stewardship. 

Stay on marked trails, take only pictures, pack out your trash, and be considerate of others who share the trails and parks you explore. 

Remember that waterfalls and rocky summits can be dangerous. Never try to climb waterfalls or get close to a ledge to get a selfie.

When you're exploring the wilderness, it's better to be safe than to be a statistic!

Bret and Mary

The BRMTG was created by Bret Love & Mary Gabbett, the award-winning team behind the world-renowned responsible travel website Green Global Travel. Born and raised in North Georgia, Editor-In-Chief Bret Love grew up hiking and camping in the Blue Ridge Mountains with his family. A professional writer/editor since 1995, he's covered travel and culture for 100+ publications, including American Way, Destination Marriott, Georgia Travel Guide, National Geographic, and Southbound. In 2010 he co-founded the award-winning website, Green Global Travel, which is ranked among the world's top travel blogs. Since launching BRMTG in 2020, he and Mary Gabbett have visited 50+ Blue Ridge Mountain towns together. Though she lived in NYC for 14 years, photographer/Business Manager Mary Gabbett's family has Georgia roots dating back 200+ years. Her great-grandfather was President of the Western Railroad of Alabama. Before moving to Atlanta in 1989, she fell in love with the North GA mountains, where her aunt owned a cabin. In 2010 she co-founded Green Global Travel, and has since traveled to more than 40 countries on six continents. Her photos have appeared in numerous travel publications (including National Geographic and Southbound) and various textbooks.

Visit Blue Ridge Parkway

information, news, events, photos

• Attractions

Blue Ridge Parkway Information and History

general area information, local attraction and scenic guides

Welcome to Visit Blue Ridge Parkway ! This website features local area guides, pictures, maps, and travel information about one of the most stunningly beautiful scenic roads in the world, the Blue Ridge Parkway . The Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469 mile paved two-lane road that runs along the high crests of the Blue Ridge Mountains with frequent pull offs and overlooks that frame stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains .

Not only are the scenic vistas from the Blue Ridge Parkway breathtaking, but the history, culture, and people of the Blue Ridge Mountains really make it a special place to spend a week or a lifetime. If you haven't been to this amazing region, you owe it to yourself to experience the beauty and culture of the Blue Ridge Mountains in person.

Including: Travel Information, Poplular Area Attractions

The Latest News, Articles, and Events

the latest news and events in the mountains

This section of our website is updated regulary with news and events from the Blue Ridge Mountains. It includes information from local news sources as well as user submitted content to keep you up to date on regional events, current news stories, Blue Ridge Parkway closings and more.

Including: News Stories, Articles, Local Events Listings

Blue Ridge Parkway Photography

gallery of pictures taken along the blue ridge parkway

We have Blue Ridge Parkway photography by some of the area's best photographers, so this is a great place to find photos and images of the Blue Ridge Parkway and surrounding areas. The Blue Ridge Parkway and surrounding mountains feature some of the most breathtaking landscape and nature scenery in the world. We are working hard to assemble a collection of images that showcases the immense beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

New photos and images are being added all the time by local photographers and visitors to the area. We feel that the incredible natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains should be seen by everyone that loves the outdoors. If you have pictures from the area that you'd like to share on our website, feel free to contact us and let us know!

Including: Scenic Parkway Vistas, User Submitted Photos

Share This Page

Photo gallery, recent updates.

• Grandfather Mountain
• Graveyard Fields
• Camping near the Parkway
• Hiking The Blue Ridge Mountains
• History of the Blue Ridge Parkway
• Blue Ridge Parkway Photos
• Motorcycling Adventures
• Mabry Mill Grist Mill

This website is written, operated, and updated by a group of people who volunteer their time in an effort to share their wealth of knowledge about the Blue Ridge Mountains region of North Carolina and Virginia.

Submit Your Blue Ridge Parkway Information

If you would like to contribute information about the latest news, events, or pictures to share on this web site, feel free to contact us and let us know so we can get you set up. After reviewing your contribution, we will publish your articles and information and give you credit including a link back to your website if applicable.

Visit Our Sponsors

• Dave Allen Photography
• Werks Media Graphic Design
• Hendersonville Information
• WNC Desktop Wallpaper Images

© 2020 VisitBlueRidgeParkway.com | design by nodethirtythree

• 10 Reasons to Choose Us
• Getting Here
• Awards & Accolades
• Client Testimonials
• Berglund Center
• Salem Civic Center
• The Conference Center of Roanoke
• Full Service Meeting Hotels
• Select Service Meeting Hotels
• Unique Meeting Venues
• Meeting Services
• Activities & Tours
• Team-Building
• Destination Services
• Transportation
• Corporate Social Responsibility
• Digital Brochures
• Restaurants
• Meetings Newsletter
• Request a Visitor's Guide
• Submit an RFP
• Destination Profile
• Things to Do
• Discounts & Promotions
• Motorcoach Directions
• Guiding Notes
• Step On Guides
• Sample Itineraries
• Hub & Spoke Tours
• AAA & Travel Agents
• Request Hotel Availability
• Rehearsal Dinner Locations
• Guest Activities
• Historic Homes & B&Bs
• Hotel Venues
• Unique Venues
• Winery Venues
• Hotels & Lodging
• Discounts & Packages
• Bridal Publications
• Annual Events
• Media Gallery Request
• Press Trips
• Virtual Tours
• News Releases
• PR Newsletter
• Recent Media Coverage
• Story Ideas
• In the News

• Artist Directory
• Arts Events
• Exhibits Calendar
• LOVEworks Art
• The Crooked Road
• Performing Arts
• Sample Art Itinerary
• Natural Sites & Zoos
• Roanoke Star
• VBR Cheers Trail
• Peaks of Otter
• Safety & Guidelines
• Skyline Drive
• Fall Colors
• Events this Weekend
• Featured Exhibits
• Submit an Event
• Winter Events
• Fall Events
• New Year's Eve Events
• Christmas Lights & Decorations
• Free Things To Do
• Historic Gainsboro Tour
• Notable Figures in Black History
• Black History & Culture Itinerary
• Hidden in Plain Site
• Arts & Culture
• Museums & Attractions
• Family Fun Itinerary
• Downtown Roanoke Bar Crawl
• Leave No Trace
• Dragon's Tooth
• Parking Lot Closure
• Tinker Cliffs
• Triple Crown
• Fall Color Spots
• Roaring Run
• 10 Great Trails
• Horseback Riding
• Kayaking & Paddling
• Kid Friendly Outdoors
• Motorcycle Touring
• Outdoor Outfitters & Shops
• Blue Ridge Parkway
• Smith Mountain Lake Boat Rentals
• Wildlife Viewing & Birding
• Classes & Workshops
• Sample Itinerary
• Black Dog Salvage
• Farmers Markets
• Outdoor Outfitters
• VBR Savings Pass
• Gyms & Fitness
• Spectator Sports
• VT Football
• Exploring Botetourt County
• Franklin County Loop Tour
• Downtown Roanoke Walking Tour
• Historic Walking Tour of Salem
• Airport/Valley View Mall
• Downtown Roanoke/Berglund Center
• I-581/US 220
• Interstate 81
• New River Valley/Blacksburg
• Smith Mountain Lake
• Bed & Breakfasts
• Smith Mountain Lake Camping
• Extended Stay
• Hotels & Motels
• Pet Friendly
• Deals & Packages
• Famous Foods
• Heated Outdoor Patios
• Food Trucks
• Foodie Sample Itinerary
• Beer, Wine & Spirits
• VBR Coloring Sheets
• Virtual Backgrounds
• Scenic Images
• Share Your Memories
• Fall Photos
• Attractions
• Food & Drink
• Historic Sites
• Attractions & Things to Do
• Places to Stay
• Small Town Tour
• Outdoor Adventures
• The Moonshine Capital
• Roanoke River Blueway
• Roanoke Valley Greenways
• Ferrum College
• Hollins University
• Roanoke College
• Football Schedule
• Virginia Western Community College
• Photo Gallery
• Chambers of Commerce
• Real Estate & Apartments
• Fall Color Schedule
• Holiday Events
• Christmas Lights
• Christmas Shopping
• Holiday Playlist
• Holiday Deals & Packages
• 12 Days of VBR
• Valentine's Day Events
• Boat Rentals
• Social Media
• Virginia State Parks
• 75 Reasons to Visit
• E-Newsletter
• Insider Tips
• Week Vacation
• Holiday Deals
• Valentine's Day Deals
• Sweepstakes
• Location & Driving Directions
• Amtrak Train
• Car Rentals & Limo Service
• Downtown Roanoke Parking
• Star Line Trolley
• Visitor Center
• Visitor's Guide

8 Must See Spots on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia's Blue Ridge

Friday, November 4, 2016 7:00 AM by Casey L. Higgins

Seasons come and go, and for that, we’re thankful. Watching the transition from summer to autumn leaves us awestruck, and seeing the leaves blown away as the air grows cold is equally impressive. 

Beauty abounds regardless of the season on the Blue Ridge Parkway .

While you’re cruising the slower pace, note there are “must see” places to mark on your map. These are popular, selfie-worthy destinations to be enjoyed with your favorite someone.

Don’t miss these eight great experiences during your next road trip in Virginia’s Blue Ridge!

1. Mabry Mill | Milepost 176

Constructed in 1903, Mabry Mill’s history includes use first as a blacksmith and wheelwright before becoming a sawmill and later a gristmill. Today it’s the centerpiece of a historic collection of sites with milling demonstrations for visitors and has become the most photographed spot on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia. 

Blacksmith and weaving demonstrations, plus a restaurant and gift shop are also part of the experience.

“We love this place. My husband can’t have enough photos of this mill.” – Donna C.

“Mabry Mill is a must stop along the Blue Ridge Parkway. A beautiful area with a couple buildings showing weaving and blacksmiths.” – Richie C.

“Well worth seeing. We must have spent an hour taking pictures. Very peaceful setting.” - JeffinNewJersey

>> 10 Local Spots to Share On Your Instagram Feed

2. Chateau Morrisette Winery & Restaurant | Milepost 171

One of Virginia’s oldest wineries is Chateau Morrisette. The vines were planted in 1978 and the first wines were available by 1982. 

A visit to the winery today offers not only a great tasting experience but also fabulous dining in a beautiful timber frame building. In fact, it’s built from salvaged timber and is one of the largest salvaged timberframes in North America.

“We have been coming here for 6 years & always look forward to our yearly trip. The atmosphere is beautiful & the wines are some of our favorites.” – Christine W.

“We come here yearly for a visit because of the great views and location!” - HavePassporTKA

>> How To: A Wine Weekend in Virginia's Blue Ridge

3. Rocky Knob Recreation Area | Milepost 169

With a visitor center, campground, picnic areas, and numerous trails for hiking, there are a variety of ways to enjoy a stop at the Rocky Knob Recreation Area. The Saddle Overlook provides a stunning view of the nearby valley and you can also make the trek down the Rock Castle Gorge Trail.

“Whether your love of the outdoors focuses on vistas, camping, picnic, or wild-life watching, you will find that and more in this stretch of the Parkway.” – Susan M.

“This is one of our favorite areas on the BRP.” – 276Sherry

>>  10 Easy Hiking Trails on the Blue Ridge Parkway

4. Mill Mountain & Roanoke Star | Milepost 120

  A photo posted by E r i c a (@gingeryerica) on Oct 25, 2016 at 9:29am PDT

If you’re looking for “the world’s largest” anything, you’ll actually find one just off the Blue Ridge Parkway. The “world’s largest freestanding illuminated man-made star” is the Roanoke (or Mill Mountain) Star. At 88.5 feet tall, the star is comprised of 2,000 feet of neon lights. 

The overlook at the star provides an iconic view of downtown Roanoke and is a popular spot for locals to take visiting friends and family. Check out the trails and Mill Mountain Zoo while you’re up on the mountain.

“We loved viewing the city from above, and seeing the Star in person.” – JetsLikeTaxis

“So gorgeous! Beautiful view and loved it at night.” – Sharon C.

>> 10 Fun Things to Do on Mill Mountain

5. Explore Park | Milepost 115

Great for photo ops, picnics, and adventure, the Explore Park is 1,200 acres of recreation and history. Check out the restored historical buildings or crank up your adrenaline with a bike ride or kayak trip down the Roanoke River.

“Best sunsets in the valley can be found here.” – Cameron T.

“Beautiful with lots of trails. So close to Roanoke.” – Sahar Alee K.

>> Mountain Biking at Explore Park

6. Peaks of Otter | Milepost 86

  A photo posted by abguma (@abguma) on Oct 22, 2016 at 3:42pm PDT

Three peaks make up the Peaks of Otter with Flat Top Mountain being the highest at 3,994 feet. Abbott Lake and the Peaks of Otter Lodge and Restaurant make this stop along the Blue Ridge Parkway a weekend destination for a variety of travelers.

“Beautiful surroundings. The restaurant is good, affordable and convenient. There are great views from the decks and patios. A paved trail around the lake makes for nice easy walk…” – mlj3u

“Peaks of Otter is a family friendly nature honoring getaway.” - JLFPHD

>> 8 Places to Stay in Virginia's Blue Ridge with a Waterfront View

7. Apple Orchard Mountain | Milepost 76.5

The highest point on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia is Apple Orchard Mountain. The unique characteristic of the area are the gnarly trees that resemble an apple orchard and a large FAA radar near the open summit. You can also check out the rugged hike to Apple Orchard Falls .

“This was a great hike with water everywhere. So many great photo opportunities.” – Sterling

“I hiked down to the falls from the Blue Ridge Parkway. We enjoyed the crispness and coolness of the air.” – Adrienne

>> Waterfall Hikes in Virginia's Blue Ridge

8. +5 More Scenic Overlooks

  A photo posted by John Wilcher 📷🔥🚒🇺🇸 (@johnwilcherphotography) on Jan 1, 2016 at 6:49am PST

Virginia’s Blue Ridge offers numerous Blue Ridge Parkway scenic overlooks and all of them offer impressive views. Three have been mentioned above and here are five more that will take your breath away!

• Purgatory Mountain Overlook | Milepost 92.1
• Pine Tree Overlook | Milepost 95.2
• Roanoke River Gorge | Milepost 114.9
• Roanoke Mountain Overlook | Milepost 120.3
• Cahas Mountain Overlook | Milepost 139

>> 7 Iconic Overlooks on the Blue Ridge Parkway

There’s no reason to wait. Hop in your favorite ride and take America’s Favorite Drive this weekend. For a place to rest during your adventure, check our list of accommodations along the Blue Ridge Parkway . You can also refer to our Blue Ridge Parkway Map for info on access points in Virginia's Blue Ridge.

Remember to share your photos with us on social media by using our #BlueRidgeDay hashtag and tagging us at @visitvbr !

Author: Casey L. Higgins

Casey L. Higgins is a writer, editor, content consultant, and social media strategist working in the realms of travel and small business. She's also a mom and wife living in and loving the mountains and valleys of Virginia. Casey previously wrote for Virginia is for Lovers and is excited to share her enthusiasm for family fun, outdoors, and culinary delights found in Virginia's Blue Ridge.

Sign up for our monthly e-newsletter to keep up with all the exciting things in Virginia's Blue Ridge!

Download our FREE Savings Pass to easily access discounts to local attractions, restaurants, & shops!

• February (5)
• January (7)
• December (2)
• November (7)
• October (3)
• September (1)
• February (2)
• January (2)
• December (1)
• November (2)
• October (2)
• February (1)
• January (3)
• November (3)
• October (1)
• September (8)
• November (1)
• September (2)
• December (3)
• November (5)
• October (4)
• February (3)
• January (6)
• November (4)
• September (6)
• February (7)
• January (4)
• December (5)
• September (4)
• February (6)
• January (5)
• Appalachian Trail (19)
• Art Galleries (5)
• Arts & Culture (24)
• Attractions (36)
• Awards & Accolades (24)
• Biking (32)
• Blue Ridge Mountains (42)
• Blue Ridge Parkway (25)
• Boating (9)
• Breweries (18)
• Camping (7)
• Downtown Roanoke (31)
• Events (41)
• Festivals (6)
• Fishing (11)
• Free Things to Do (38)
• Greenways (11)
• Hiking (34)
• History (28)
• Holidays (11)
• Iconic Mountains (11)
• Itineraries (20)
• Kid-Friendly (61)
• Local History (13)
• Local Voices (5)
• Lodging (12)
• Main Streets (9)
• Motorcycling (3)
• Mountain Biking (27)
• Museums (17)
• Nightlife (9)
• Outdoors (116)
• Paddling (20)
• Performing Arts (8)
• Pet-Friendly (19)
• Railroad (7)
• Restaurants (14)
• Roanoke Star (3)
• Romance (17)
• Scenic Beauty (37)
• Scenic Drives (10)
• Shopping (20)
• Smith Mountain Lake (14)
• Sports (13)
• Spring (11)
• Summer (15)
• VBR TWENTY24 (6)
• Water Activities (27)
• Weddings (3)
• Winter (12)

Recommended Blogs

• Roanoke Outside
• Get2KnowNoke
• The Revivalist: Word from the Appalachian South
• The Roanoker
• Virginia's Travel Blog

• Atlanta 430 miles
• Baltimore 281 miles
• Charleston, WV 180 miles
• Charlotte 194 miles
• Columbia 284 miles
• Greensboro 104 miles
• Lexington 356 miles
• Pittsburgh 340 miles
• Raleigh 167 miles
• Richmond 164 miles
• Virginia Beach 295 miles
• Washington, DC 251 miles

Get a FREE Visitor's Guide

Want the latest on virginia’s blue ridge securely sign up for our free e-newsletter:.

Visit Virginia's Blue Ridge   101 Shenandoah Avenue NE Roanoke, VA 24016 (540) 342-6025 (800) 635-5535

Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge is committed to cultivating an atmosphere that welcomes and celebrates the unique backgrounds, abilities, passions, and perspectives of our vibrant community. As our region’s only destination marketing organization, we have a responsibility to showcase the best the Roanoke Region has to offer, and those assets and strengths come in varied forms. We embrace differences in race, religion, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, language, visible and invisible disabilities, and all the intersecting identities that make Virginians and visitors alike so unique. We believe our differences make us stronger– and better.

• Skip to global NPS navigation
• Skip to this park navigation
• Skip to the main content
• Skip to this park information section
• Skip to the footer section

Exiting nps.gov

Alerts in effect, blue ridge parkway visitor center - milepost 384.

Last updated: June 24, 2021

Park footer

Contact info, mailing address:.

199 Hemphill Knob Rd Asheville, NC 28803

828 348-3400

Stay Connected

Blue Ridge Parkway

Cities, towns, and counties.

Martinsburg | Berkeley County

Jefferson County Almost Heaven

Charles Town | Jefferson County

Winchester | Frederick County

Clarke County

Town of Strasburg

Town of Edinburg

Shenandoah County

Town of New Marke t

Front Royal | Warren County

Luray | Page County

Page Valley

Town of Shenandoah

Harrisonburg | Rockingham County

Highland County

Bath County

Augusta County

Staunton | Augusta County

Waynesboro | Augusta County

Alleghany County

Lexington | Buena Vista | Rockbridge County

Bedford County

Charlottesville-Albemarle County

Meetings & Travel Trade

Deals & Specials

Film Industry

International Visitors

Newsletter Signup

Things to see & do.

Outdoor Recreation

Horseback Riding

Parks, Forests, Wilderness Areas

Attractions

Farms, Markets & Orchards

Caverns & Rock Formations

Wineries, Breweries & Distilleries

Scenic Drives

History & Museums

Performing Arts & Entertainment

Where to Stay

Hotels, motels, & conference centers, resorts, inns, vacation rentals, cabins, cottages, bed & breakfasts, pet friendly, campgrounds, rv parks, plan your visit.

The Blue Ridge Parkway runs along the eastern border of the legendary Shenandoah Valley. At each Parkway entrance a directional sign indicates ‘north’ or ‘south’. North, toward the north end of the Parkway, leads to Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park. South, toward the south end of the Parkway, leads to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Outstanding scenery and recreational opportunities make the Blue Ridge Parkway one of the most popular units of the National Park System. “America’s Favorite Drive” winds its way 469 miles through mountain meadows and past seemingly endless vistas. Split-rail fences, old farmsteads and historic structures complement spectacular views of distant mountains and neighboring valleys.

The Parkway incorporates several recreation areas, some exceeding 6,000 acres. These parks within the Parkway have visitor centers, campgrounds, picnic areas, trails and, in many instances, concessionaire-operated lodges, restaurants, and other facilities.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is open year round, weather permitting. Write for a free information pack containing maps, a Blue Ridge Parkway Directory, and additional material.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is more than a road – it’s a beautiful journey!

See the Blue Ridge Parkway YouTube Video

199 Hemphill Knob Road Asheville, NC 28803

828-348-3400

april, 2024

Charles Town | Jefferson County, WV

Charlottesville Albemarle Count

Charlottesville Albemarle County

Culpeper County

Martinsburg | Berkeley County, WV

Page County

Roanoke | Salem | Roanoke Co.

Town of New Market

Winchester | Frederick County, VA

Packsaddle Ridge Golf Club

The Legacy Inn

Things to Do

Getting To the Valley – Train

Amtrak  – You can reach the Valley directly by train by traveling to the Amtrak station in Staunton, or indirectly by traveling to stations in short driving distance in Charlottesville, Lynchburg, the Washington, D.C. area, and in Harpers Ferry and Martinsburg, West Virginia.  Also see  Amtrak Virginia .

Getting To the Valley – Plane

Airports within the Shenandoah Valley

If you are travelling by air, you can skip the rental car and schedule a private car service with Shenandoah Shores Management Group (SSMG). Our experienced drivers will pick you up from the airport and drop you off at your destination. And they can safely drive you to any other locations in the area.

Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport  Weyer’s Cave, VA (SHD) Roanoke Regional Airport   Roanoke, VA (ROA)

Airports a short driving distance from the Shenandoah Valley Baltimore Washington International Airport  (take I-70 west to I-81, then go south) Ronald Reagan National Airport  (Arlington) (take US-50, Va-7, or I-66 west to the Valley) Washington Dulles Airport  (take US-50, Va-7, or I-66 west to the Valley) Richmond International Airport  (take I-64 west to the Valley) Charlottesville-Albemarle Airport  (take I-64 west to the Valley) Blue Ridge Regional Airport  (Martinsville, Virginia)

Getting To the Valley – Car

Interstate 81 is the main north-south route to and through the Shenandoah Valley.

From the Northeast take Interstate 76 or Interstate 78 west to Interstate 81 south.

From the Northwest take Interstate 76 east to Interstate 70. At Hagerstown, MD take Interstate 81 south into the Shenandoah Valley.

To reach the Valley from the east, the main highways are Interstate 66, which brings you directly from the Washington, D.C. area and connects with I-81 near Strasburg, VA.

Interstate 64, which brings you directly from Richmond and connects with I-81 near Staunton. From the west, I-64 is again the most direct route, coming from West Virginia and linking to I-81 near Lexington, VA.

10 Scenic Places To Explore On Vacation In The Blue Ridge Mountains Of North Carolina

• The Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina offer breathtaking landscapes and endless outdoor adventures for travelers who love the outdoors. From scenic drives to hiking and exploring charming mountain towns, there is something for everyone.
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park, one of the top destinations in the Blue Ridge, is known for its biodiversity and offers stunning ridgeline vistas, waterfalls, and historic structures. Hiking trails cater to all abilities and wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant.
• Asheville, nestled in the Blue Ridge foothills, combines urban excitement with outdoor adventure. Visitors can experience vibrant downtown life, tour the grand Biltmore Estate, and access hiking trails and waterfalls just minutes away.

The special Blue Ridge Mountains area of North Carolina is a scenic wonderland for travelers, providing some of the most incredible mountain vacations in the US . Spanning the western tip of the state, this ancient mountain range is part of the vast Appalachian chain and offers incredible biodiversity and natural beauty.

From the grassy balds waving in mountain breezes to cascading waterfalls plunging into deep gorges, the landscapes of the Blue Ridge are awe-inspiring. The region provides endless adventures for travelers who love the outdoors. Visitors can embark on scenic drives along the Blue Ridge Parkway, gaze out from lofty mountain peaks, hike through lush forests, or relax in charming mountain towns. The Blue Ridge has astounding vistas, outdoor activities, historical sites, and mountain culture to satisfy any traveler.

Whether travelers are seeking solitude, an adrenaline rush, or a peaceful escape, they will find endless opportunities for exploration and inspiration in the ancient, rugged peaks of North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains. The area's scenic wonders unfold at every bend, inviting travelers to enjoy some of the best Carolina mountain vacations to be had in this glorious part of the South. Here are some of the most beautiful spots in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina.

Related: These 10 Blue Ridge Mountain Hikes Showcase The Beauty Of Fall

Blue Ridge Parkway

Stretching 469 miles through the Appalachian Highlands from Shenandoah National Park to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Blue Ridge Parkway has many beautiful stops that provide easy mountain access and spectacular views.

Designated as a National Parkway and All-American Road, the route features hundreds of overlooks showcasing grassy balds, rolling hills, and distant mountain summits. The parkway also passes near Appalachian Trail access points, waterfalls, vineyards, breweries, and charming mountain towns.

Travelers can experience the best of Blue Ridge beauty and adventure by driving leisurely or stopping at highlights like Linville Falls, Graveyard Fields, and Mount Pisgah.

• Things to do : Hiking, scenic overlooks, picnicking
• Where : Spans from Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina
• Best Time to Visit: Spring for wildflowers and waterfalls, fall for leaf colors
• Length: 469 miles

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

World-renowned for its biodiversity, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the top Blue Ridge destinations and one of the best national parks to visit, especially in spring and fall outside the peak summer season.

Ridgeline vistas, wildflower meadows, historic structures, waterfalls, and old-growth forests await visitors within the expansive 520,000-acre park situated on the Tennessee/North Carolina border. Popular sights include Clingmans Dome, Newfound Gap Road, Mingus Mill, and the Mountain Farm Museum.

Hiking trails cater to all abilities with options like the strenuous 16-mile roundtrip to Mt. LeConte or easy walks to Abrams Falls and Laurel Falls. Abundant wildlife, including black bears and synchronous fireflies, also offer memorable wildlife viewing.

• Things to do : Hiking, wildlife viewing, scenic drives
• Where: Straddles the border of North Carolina and Tennessee
• Top Attractions: Clingmans Dome, Newfound Gap Road, Abrams Falls
• Size: 520,000 acres

Nestled in the Blue Ridge foothills, Asheville brings together urban excitement and outdoor adventure. Visitors can shop and dine in the vibrant downtown, tour the grand Biltmore Estate, and access Pisgah National Forest's bountiful hiking and waterfalls minutes from city streets.

The Asheville arts scene flourishes through galleries , music venues, craft breweries, and the River Arts District. Must-see city sights include the Basilica of Saint Lawrence, the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center, and the Vanderbilt mansion, Biltmore Village. Nearby attractions include Sliding Rock, Looking Glass Falls, Craggy Gardens, and Mount Mitchell State Park .

• Things to Do: Biltmore Estate, Blue Ridge Parkway, hiking, biking
• Best Time to Visit: Anytime, great year-round destination

Blowing Rock

Known as "the Crown of the Blue Ridge," Blowing Rock offers panoramic mountain scenery and small-town charm. The town's namesake attraction, Blowing Rock, is a cliff offering views of shuddering gorge walls and sweeping ridges. Just minutes from downtown, the 5,900-foot summit of Grandfather Mountain also affords stunning vistas.

Quaint shops, restaurants, galleries, and hotels line the main street for browsing and dining. Hiking, zip lining, the Tweetsie Railroad theme park, gem mining, golf, and seasonal festivals make this Blue Ridge town an inviting home base.

• Things to do: Hiking, visiting Blowing Rock attraction, strolling downtown
• Where Located in the High Country region of the Blue Ridge
• Best Time to Visit: May-October for good weather and events
• Elevation: 4,000 feet

Related: 10 Facts About The Blue Ridge Mountains You Didn't Know

Grandfather Mountain

Home to one of the Blue Ridge's most iconic peaks, Grandfather Mountain features a state park, nature preserve, wildlife habitats, and the famous Mile High Swinging Bridge . Visitors can walk across the 228-foot-long bridge while admiring panoramic mountain views.

The mountain's ecological diversity supports 16 distinct plant communities and 73 rare species, offering superb wildlife watching. Black bears, otters, and peregrine falcons reside in protected habitats overseen by the nonprofit Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation. Hiking trails allow exploring diverse beauty spots like Linville Peak, Calloway Peak, and the Split Rock formation.

• Where: Near the towns of Banner Elk and Linville
• Top Attractions: Mile High Swinging Bridge, wildlife habitats
• Things to Do: Hiking, backcountry camping
• Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for great views

Linville Gorge Wilderness

Plunging 2,000 feet, the Linville Gorge showcases the dramatic landscape carved by the Linville River. Often called the "Grand Canyon of North Carolina," the 12-mile-long gorge features rocky cliffs, waterfalls, and forested slopes.

One of the best places to visit in the Blue Ridge Mountains, North Carolina, backpackers and day hikers can descend into its depths on trails leading to the river and falls. Highlights include Linville Falls, Shortoff Mountain, Table Rock, Hawksbill Mountain, and gorge overlooks accessed from the rim.

Due to rugged terrain, off-trail travel is difficult and orienteering skills are a must. But the demanding environment offers solitude and sweeping Blue Ridge vistas.

• Length: 12 miles long
• Difficulty: Strenuous due to steep, rugged terrain
• Where to Visit: Pisgah National Forest

Pisgah National Forest

Pisgah National Forest encompasses over 500,000 acres and provides endless outdoor recreation in the North Carolina mountains. Its extensive trail network enables hiking, backpacking, and waterfall chasing. Biking, fishing, swimming, camping, and wildlife viewing are also popular activities.

Must-see spots include Looking Glass Falls, Sliding Rock, Cradle of Forestry, Mount Pisgah, and the Shining Rock and Middle Prong wilderness areas. The Blue Ridge Parkway and Appalachian Trail weave through the ancient hardwood forests, granite peaks, and cascading streams of North Carolina's oldest national forest.

• Where to Visit: Transylvania, Haywood, Madison, and Davidson counties
• Top Attractions: Looking Glass Falls, Cradle of Forestry, Shining Rock
• Size: Over 500,000 acres

Craggy Gardens

Craggy Gardens is a beautiful high-elevation Blue Ridge Parkway stop that delights visitors with grassy meadows, pink-tinged rhododendron tunnels, and distant mountain views. Located at milepost 364, a roadside overlook allows seeing the Craggy Pinnacle rising 6,000 feet. Short walking paths lead through the grassy, flowering balds with brilliant displays in summer.

The Craggy Gardens Visitor Center offers educational exhibits and ranger-led programs on the area's ecology. Nearby trails climb the Black Mountains, explore Dark Prong, and traverse seas of rhododendrons along the Craggy Dome Trail.

• Where to Visit: Milepost 364 on the Blue Ridge Parkway
• Best Time to Visit: June-July for rhododendron blooms
• Elevation: Around 6,000 feet

Related: Discovering The Beauty Of The Blue Ridge Scenic Highway: A Scenic Drive Through North Carolina's Mountains

Mount Mitchell State Park

Home to the highest peak east of the Mississippi River, Mount Mitchell State Park is among the most scenic destinations in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina; it ascends to elevations over 6,600 feet, boasting stunning vistas.

A paved road brings visitors to an observation tower with a 360-degree Blue Ridge panorama. Exhibits at the park's museum highlight the mountain's naming and first ascent. Hiking trails traverse the summit's high ridges, lakes, and forests.

Camping and backcountry camping provide overnight stays for longer exploration of the remote, rugged surroundings. Close-up views of plants and animals adapted to the harsh, cold environment make this North Carolina high country a revelation.

• Where: Mount Mitchell State Park near Burnsville
• Elevation: 6,684 feet, the highest peak in the eastern US
• Things to Do : Hiking, scenic overlooks, camping
• Best Time to Visit : Summer and fall for pleasant weather

The Biltmore Estate

No North Carolina Blue Ridge experience is complete without visiting the grand Biltmore Estate. This 250-room French Renaissance château built by George Vanderbilt in the late 1800s oozes luxury, history, and mountain charm.

Sightseeing at America's largest private residence could take an entire day. The mansion's interior dazzles with original furnishings and artwork. Outside, visitors can stroll the sprawling gardens and grounds, tour the winery, shop at Antler Hill Village, and dine at one of the estate's restaurants.

From its mountain perch near Asheville, Biltmore exemplifies the beautiful architecture and scenery of the Blue Ridge.

• Things to Do: Tour the mansion, visit the winery, dine on site
• Size: 8,000-acre estate

• About the Parkway
• Getting Started
• Lodging, Dining, & Things to Do
• Suggested Itineraries
• Attractions
• Parkway Visitor Centers
• Travel Tips & Regulations
• Area Information
• Road Conditions
• Gas/ EV Charging Availability
• Accessibility

• Parkway Events
• Stories from the Road

Blue Ridge Parkway

Visitor Centers & Facilities

Where to stop and get more information along the road.

The Blue Ridge Parkway offers many Visitor Centers along its 469 miles – great places to stretch your legs, take a rest, enjoy the view, and learn more about the region. You’ll find water fountains, restrooms, maps and area information, and Parkway keepsakes at Visitor Centers.

Ridge & Plateau Regions

• Milepost 5.8 – Humpback Rocks
• Milepost 63.6 – James River
• Milepost 86 – Peaks of Otter
• Milepost 115 – Explore Park (open all year)
• Milepost 169 – Rocky Knob
• Milepost 213 – Blue Ridge Music Center

Families and Kids

Visitor Centers are a great resource for families along the trip. Restrooms, snacks and a variety of learning opportunities are all available at these facilities.

Knowledgeable volunteers and Rangers are available to answer questions and share information about the natural resources of the region.

Kids can get “sworn in” as Junior Rangers at Visitor Centers and pick up their free activity kits. Junior Rangers learn while they experience the Parkway, earning badges as they complete activities across the four regions of the Parkway.

Please note that not every visitor center is open every year and most are only open seasonally. Check the NPS Operating Hours and Seasons page to see the current operating schedule for all the NPS facilities located along the Parkway.

Highlands & Pisgah Regions

• Milepost 241.1 – Doughton Park
• Milepost 294.1 – Moses H. Cone
• Milepost 304.4 – Linn Cove Viaduct
• Milepost 316.4 – Linville Falls
• Milepost 330.9 –  Museum of North Carolina Minerals (open all year)
• Milepost 364.5 – Craggy Gardens
• Milepost 382.2 – Folk Art Center (open all year)
• Milepost 384.5 – The Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center in Asheville (open all year)
• Milepost 451.2 – Waterrock Knob

You’ll find Visitor Centers at most Points of Interest . Most Visitor Centers and many Parkway facilities are ADA Accessible .

Most facilities like Visitor Centers, picnic areas, and campgrounds on the Parkway operate on a seasonal basis – please note this includes restrooms and plan accordingly. Facilities that are normally open year-round are: the NC Museum of Minerals , the Folk Art Center  and the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center in Asheville, NC. In winter, sections of the Parkway may be closed by snow or ice.

Parkway Facilities Schedules

Parkway Maps

Road Advisories & Closures

Towns to Visit

Our Sponsors

Your browser is not supported for this experience. We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari.

visitors guide

Sign up for our

Enewsletter, blue ridge parkway notification.

Short sections of the Blue Ridge Parkway around Roanoke are temporarily closed to thru-travelers due to repairs. Read More

Blue Ridge Parkway

Blue ridge parkway .

Meandering 469 miles from  Shenandoah National Park  in the northern Shenandoah Valley of Virginia to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina, the Blue Ridge Parkway, also known as " America's Favorite Drive ," follows the Appalachian Mountains and boasts some of the most spectacular scenery in the world.

A hundred species of trees, a variety of flowering shrubs and wildflowers as well 54 different mammals and 59 species of birds live along the Parkway - more than the entire European continent!

Skyline Drive  connects to the northernmost section of the Parkway, winding along the crest of the mountains from Waynesboro northward 105 miles to Front Royal.

The Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center and developed sites like picnic and parking areas along the Parkway make it easy to stop, visit restrooms and exhibits, and get a bite to eat. Lodging and campgrounds are available with opportunities to fish and view wildlife, and hiking trails offer opportunities to get out of the car and experience scenic beauty on foot.  

Know Before You Go:

Short sections of the Blue Ridge Parkway around Roanoke are temporarily closed to thru-travelers due to repairs, but this fantastic alternate route through the most charming neighborhoods in the Roanoke area allows you to get off the beaten path and follow your WanderLove !

Hiking Along The Blue Ridge Parkway

Activities along the blue ridge parkway, camping and lodging along the blue ridge parkway, virginia experiences, wanderlove: a road trip along virginia’s blue ridge parkway.

Winding through 469 miles of the storied Appalachian Mountains, the Blue Ridge Parkway extends from Virginia’s Shenandoah National…

Best Blue Ridge Parkway Hikes in Virginia

Outdoor enthusiasts like us often associate the Blue Ridge Parkway with scenic drives. After all, the Parkway was constructed as a…

Great Small Towns to Explore in Virginia’s Blue Ridge

There’s never been a better time to explore the small towns of Virginia’s Blue Ridge. A focused travel plan can be essential for…

10 Ideas for a Summer Vacation in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains

It's summertime in Virginia's Blue Ridge and we're chomping at the bit to experience everything on this list. There's adventure…

A Three-Day Vacation Guide to Roanoke and Virginia’s Blue Ridge

Plan a trip to the famed Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia and spend three days experiencing the best that Roanoke and the…

Visiting Skyline Drive and the Blue Ridge Parkway in Fall

It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for a beautiful stretch of road for a Sunday drive or if the journey is the destination…