Blue Ridge Parkway
Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina Mountains: Address, Phone Number, Blue Ridge Parkway Reviews: 5/5
Blue Ridge Parkway
Blue Ridge Parkway
5
About
This 469-mile scenic drive links Shenandoah and Great Smoky Mountains National Park, while protecting the cultural and natural features of the Blue Ridge.
Suggested duration
More than 3 hours
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Restaurants
2 within 3 miles
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1 within 6 miles
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
6,970 reviews
Excellent
5,884
Very good
898
Average
152
Poor
24
Terrible
12
99_Ohio_Traveler
Delaware, OH34 contributions
Enjoy slow scenic drive, picnics and hikes. Hike around Price Lake was especially nice, and the ranger at Humpback Rocks was helpful in orienting us. Some visitors centers closed for COVID, but restrooms are often open in adjoining picnic areas. Mabry Mill has limited seating and serves breakfast until 12 and switches to lunch menu. Moses Cone residence is being renovated, so only crafts shop and grounds are open. Blue Ridge Music Center is open Saturday’s only. Dining room at Mt Pisgah requires reservation, A couple sections around Roanoke are not open due to road construction, but have a well marked detour. However, the overlooks, picnic areas are all open. We had a great trip driving the entire 469 mile parkway except for closed sections —- driving about 100 miles of the parkway per day from June 5 -10, 2021 and returned via interstate in one day
Written June 15, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Cszepak
Miami, FL257 contributions
Family
One of the most scenic road trips you can do in USA. We did the blue ridge parkway from Ashville up to Lynchburg/Roanoke area in a 32ft motorhome. We drove from Miami to Ashville (with one stop by in Savannah for one night) and then, we did the blue ridge parkway in 3 days (driving 3-4 hours a day and sleeping each day in different campground). Driving an big rig in the parkway has its challenges, but it wasn’t as bad as I thought. You need to be careful with the tunnels (reason why we started in Ashville and drove up north as tunnels can support our RV height more easily… the blue ridge from Cherokee to Ashville has lower tunnels) and the hanging branches in the parkway, other than that, just use your TOW mode for better breaking and going up the hills and watch your speed. We stayed in the following campgrounds that are very close to the blue ridge: Asheville West KOA, Boone KOA, Fancy GAP / Blue Ridge Parkway KOA and Lynchburg / Blue Ridge Parkway KOA. All good and recommended RV campgrounds. Don’t miss the following view areas (most of them has enough space for your to park your RV): Parkway Visitor Center (milepost 384), Folk Art Center (mp 382), Three Knob Overlook (mp 338), Flat Rock Parking (mp 308), Julian Price Park (mp 297), Thunder Hill Overlook (mp 290.4), Elk Mountain View (mp 274.3), Air Bellows Overlook (mp 236.9), Alligators Back Parking (mp 218.6), Blue Ridge Music Center (mp 213), Mabry Mill (mp 176), Smart View Picnic Area (mp 154), Roanoke Valley Overlook (mp 129) – but there are many others in the blue ridge that is worth stopping for a few minutes! Also recommend to take the blue ridge during week days to avoid too much traffic in the weekends.
Written July 23, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Buia2001
Austin, TX286 contributions
My husband and I took an impromptu drive down the Blue Ridge parkway in June 2022. It was completely unplanned, and we had no idea what to expect since we were visiting from out of state. We took the cutoff from I-40 east of Asheville and drove all the way to Mt Mitchell. The scenery was quite lovely with the rhododendrons in bloom. This is not serious mountain driving, as the altitude is much lower than major mountain ranges, and at least in this area you don't have any switchbacks or hairpin turns. The area is popular with cyclists though and here are plenty of blind curves, so it's best to stick to 35 mph or slower. There are a few lookout points along the way and plenty of opportunities for hiking. We didn't see any restaurants at the rest stops during our drive so it might be a good idea to pack a lunch.
Written June 11, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
caralily1
North Carolina18 contributions
Solo
The scenery here is beautiful anytime of year. But there are drawbacks to driving the parkway too. The biggest drawback is the bumper riders--those folks who ride as close behind you as possible. In the four days I was in the Boone area, this describes almost all the drivers. There is no way to just enjoy the scenery when you have people trying to ride in your back pocket. If it weren't for the drivers being so aggressive I would give this four or five stars.
The second biggest drawback is that many of the parkway turnoffs have little parking. It is common to get to a turnoff only to find you have to keep going because there's no place to park.
I'm going to try a different part of the parkway another time and see if it's any better.
The second biggest drawback is that many of the parkway turnoffs have little parking. It is common to get to a turnoff only to find you have to keep going because there's no place to park.
I'm going to try a different part of the parkway another time and see if it's any better.
Written October 15, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
fanofos
Gulfport, MS25 contributions
Couples
We drove the BRP from Cherokee to Asheville on October 7. The first third of the drive was beautiful with the tree colors just starting to turn. Few reds, yellows and golden's. As the elevation increased to 5,000 so did the rain and lower visibility. The few colors observed above 4,000 feet are likely.two weeks from peak. Locals are concerned that the past week of rain could cause the trees to lose their leaves. I'd suggest keeping an eye on these reviews and other internet leaf peeping reports🍁🍂
Written October 7, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
TYPSUKR
Arlington, VA723 contributions
We did two stints on the Blue Ridge Parkway from our base in Asheville, a brief one to the south (Frying Pan Lookout), and a longer one to the north (Crabtree Falls). In terms of the quality of the drive, obviously this is a mountainous parkway, which is going naturally going to have winding roads and steep grades. Other factors to consider are fog, rapidly-dropping temperature, and wind, all of which we experienced in late April. Be sure to be prepared in terms of clothing, supplies, and condition of your car. We found that the Parkway was best taken at a leisurely pace, both in order to enjoy the many overlooks, and also to take occasional breaks. Our experiences included hikes, and there were countless trailheads along the Parkway. As we went in late April, shortly before the peak season, we found that many of the facilities along the Parkway were either closed or offering limited service. If you will be reliant on such places, be double-check the information.
Written May 16, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
magnoliaeleven
Reno, NV4,653 contributions
We explored a portion of the Blue Ridge Parkway in early July and thought it was beautiful!
We enjoyed the Parkway and appreciated all of the turnouts which allow you to pull off the road to take in the views and also take pictures.
The parkway is very curvy at times and has many blind corners which results in a speed limit of 45mph. We were happy that this particular weekend was not super busy and we did not feel rushed or pressured as we explored.
Our understanding is that the months of September, October and early November are absolutely gorgeous with the turning of the leaves but that it is very busy during these peak times.
We will absolutely be back to continue to explore the area!
We enjoyed the Parkway and appreciated all of the turnouts which allow you to pull off the road to take in the views and also take pictures.
The parkway is very curvy at times and has many blind corners which results in a speed limit of 45mph. We were happy that this particular weekend was not super busy and we did not feel rushed or pressured as we explored.
Our understanding is that the months of September, October and early November are absolutely gorgeous with the turning of the leaves but that it is very busy during these peak times.
We will absolutely be back to continue to explore the area!
Written July 11, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
flscott66
Knoxville, TN872 contributions
Couples
My wife and I went on the Blue Ridge Parkway and have a wonderful time.
We picked it up in Asheville and headed west. What a beautiful trip! There are so many great overlooks and the road quality is excellent.
I recommend you bring some camp chairs and find a great view and set up and watch the clouds roll through.
Make sure you have enough gas as it may be awhile before you can get off on a connecting road with gas.
Also, make sure to run with your headlights on as there are many tunnels.
We picked it up in Asheville and headed west. What a beautiful trip! There are so many great overlooks and the road quality is excellent.
I recommend you bring some camp chairs and find a great view and set up and watch the clouds roll through.
Make sure you have enough gas as it may be awhile before you can get off on a connecting road with gas.
Also, make sure to run with your headlights on as there are many tunnels.
Written September 6, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
CraftBeers
Plano, TX26,189 contributions
What an absolutely gorgeous drive. I can't imagine anyone giving this a rating less than five. I get the RV owners that are angry with improper tree trimming that damaged their vehicle, but there is too much beauty to take in. There is well over 400 miles to explore, so you get to control how long you want to be on the road. You can choose to drive all day or even make it two or three days with stay overs to see the whole thing. If you only have a few hours, you can decide how long you want to explore. If you are a picture taker, plan to stop frequently. If you want to just drive and enjoy the scenery, then sit back and relax.
I entered the Blue Ridge Parkway at Ashville, NC and drove north for about 10 miles. I then turn back south and drove all the way to the end of the parkway. I loved the twisty roads with valleys and waterfalls. Depending on the elevation you may be below the clouds, in the clouds or above them looking down. The whole thing is incredible.
I too got tired of pulling out and taking pictures. I eventually realized, it's all gorgeous. I stopped taking pictures and enjoyed the ride. We eventually learned to pull out only when our mouths dropped open from a new view.
There are some tight turns, and tree trimming is not the best. RV and wide vehicles may have to hug the center of the road, which is unsafe. Go slow, drive smart.
I entered the Blue Ridge Parkway at Ashville, NC and drove north for about 10 miles. I then turn back south and drove all the way to the end of the parkway. I loved the twisty roads with valleys and waterfalls. Depending on the elevation you may be below the clouds, in the clouds or above them looking down. The whole thing is incredible.
I too got tired of pulling out and taking pictures. I eventually realized, it's all gorgeous. I stopped taking pictures and enjoyed the ride. We eventually learned to pull out only when our mouths dropped open from a new view.
There are some tight turns, and tree trimming is not the best. RV and wide vehicles may have to hug the center of the road, which is unsafe. Go slow, drive smart.
Written March 31, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Biff Simpson
Wilbraham, MA918 contributions
Couples
We stayed near Asheville for a few days and explored a number of places in and around the city. I swear... every time we drove somewhere outside the city, we wound up on the Blue Ridge Parkway. The first time, it was cool: you go from the woods to the city in about three feet. The Parkway is a two lane road with limited access and no place to pull over. It’s bendy with tons of trees and (until you get east) no views... just trees. Get behind someone who doesn’t do well with Le Mans driving and you are doomed. Look at a road map east of Ash illegal and it looks like a map of your small intestine... but it IS cool
Written May 6, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Jay
Huntersville, NC17 contributions
Which part of blue ridge parkway (north or south of Asheville) gets the fall color peaked first ? I know colors peak at higher elevations first and then at lower. So which side will prove to be a better fall watch ride say around 17th October weekend ?
Further on south side what overlooks or knob’s are good places to see the colors ? We visited water rock knob couple of years ago And it was awesome but it is little bit too deep (towards the end on parkway). I prefer knob’s than overlooks that can be easily crowded (not to mention limited parking). I know balsam is another good one.
Anyone knows of any fall peeping reports that people do with pictures (like blogging every week) ?
Margaret G
Bradenton, FL
Hi traveling from Norfolk, CT to Bradenton, FL and would like to go through Blue Ridge parkway
Timothy T
Nashville, TN291 contributions
It’s beautiful and just about 40 miles from Asheville NC which I highly recommend stopping and playing a day/evening around. Great sites. Amazing food.
Jessi_9018
Raleigh, NC305 contributions
What is the shortest (2-3 hours drive) yet still beautiful route to see fall colors on Blue Ridge Parkway? Which area? I have 2 little ones (3.5 year old and 14 months old) so we prefer shorter drives. Trying to see where to stay.
Deborah Buchanan
Forest City, NC388 contributions
Hi! From the Raleigh area, I would recommend getting on the Parkway around Blowing Rock, NC and traveling south. You can access the Parkway at a couple of locations from this area. Blowing Rock and Boone have a ton of hotels and cabin rentals available. My children attended Appalachian State University and we visit that part of the Parkway often. This route will take you by the Moses Cone Memorial Park, numerous hiking trails, Price Lake, Lynn Cove Viaduct, Grandfather Mountain exit, and Linville Falls area. There are tons of overlooks, picnic areas, and places for littles to explore. Tweetsie Railroad is fun for littles as well. My daughter has a 2 year old and a 4 year old and they enjoy this route of the Parkway. Be sure to check out the fall foliage calendar for the time the leaves begin to change. It is pretty spot on accurate each year. Hope you and your family have a wonderful time and enjoy the Parkway as much as we do!
Don M
Norwich, NY22 contributions
I remember driving under the end of a very large football shaped rock on either the BRP or a road that paralleled it, in the 1970s. There is a picture of this rock on blueridgeheritage, which can also find if you search for "historic Bear Rock near Grandfather Mountain". I am sure this is the same feature I drove under. Apparently it was known as "Bear Rock". Can anyone tell me where it is? I find no other references to it. I am pretty sure they rerouted the road that went under it some years later.
cheryl h
Durham, NC57,103 contributions
I'm wondering if it is actually on Bear Rock Road? In the past they have not allowed links to be posted in these answers but I will try posting one below. If that doesn't show up try googling "map bear rock road" and clicking on the image that appears.
Okay, I tried with the link and got the following message:
Sorry, questions may not include HTML or website links. Please edit your answer.
So you need to try googling what I mentioned above.
Marlemesusan
Minneapolis, MN47 contributions
We plan on driving part of the parkway in early June. I love wildflowers which part of the parkway has azaleas blooming at that time?
In the fall we’ll do another part for fall color. Which part should we do for that?
Thank you!!
is the blue ridge parkway in Canada?
Bowmanator22
Charlotte, NC4,974 contributions
Not it Canada. NC and VA only.
Looking to spend 7-10 days this month road-tripping on the Blue Ridge Pky and Skyline Drive - roundtrip from Philadelphia with an overnight stop in Winston-Salem area to visit family. We need to get out of our 4 walls and feel the freedom of the road. No much for hiking. Looking for scenery and small town charm. We'd appreciate suggestions for a roundtrip itinerary and recommended routes. Thanks very much.
maluferrari
Germantown, WI774 contributions
We are planning to do BRPW middle of October, we will have 2 and half days. Where should we think of staying? Friday 16th I booked Hampton inn in Waynesboro coming from the skyline drive. We will start Saturday early, where should be our first night? Roanoke? and the second? Our plan is to start coming back home on Monday Middle afternoon. So wherever we can do we will. No pressures to get anywhere, just enjoy what we see. Thanks in advance
1travelinjunkie
Charleston, WV184 contributions
The Switzerland Inn is great. Amazing views!!
ScooterGuy1961
Frankfort, KY6 contributions
Is it feasible to make it from Roanoke to Asheville in one day, or would it be better to break it up at Blowing Rock? We want to enjoy the Parkway - stopping at overlooks, walking a few trails, etc.
CraftBeers
Plano, TX26,189 contributions
That's a tough one to answer. You're looking at 250 miles of twists and turns that would take 6-7 hours with no stops. I loved pulling over and taking in the different views, landscapes and cloud cover.
This time of the year you have 12-13 hours of sunlight, so the drive is definitely doable and enjoy the day. The closer you get to Fall, the shorter your window making more stops to enjoy the views.
Can someone send info
Shepard Jones
Rock Hill, SC23 contributions
It’s basically a road with stunning views at the overlook my profile picture is actually at one of those overlooks
Frequently Asked Questions about Blue Ridge Parkway
- We recommend booking Blue Ridge Parkway tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 14 Blue Ridge Parkway tours on Tripadvisor
- According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Blue Ridge Parkway:
- Blue Ridge Parkway Waterfalls Hiking Tour from Asheville (From $97.00)
- Waterfalls and Blue Ridge Parkway Hiking Tour with Expert Naturalist (From $99.00)
- Guided Horseback Ride through Flame Azalea and Fern Forest (From $109.50)
- Guided Horseback Riding Adventure on the Flame Azalea Trail (From $92.00)
- Private Full Day Excursion to the Blue Ridge Mountains (From $370.00)
- Hotels near Blue Ridge Parkway:
- (3.47 mi) Cabins of Asheville
- (4.56 mi) Mountain Springs Cabins
- (6.21 mi) Engadine Inn & Cabins
- (3.95 mi) Pisgah Inn
- (1.74 mi) Pisgah View Ranch
- Restaurants near Blue Ridge Parkway:
- (3.96 mi) Pisgah Inn Restaurant
- (1.21 mi) Springdale at Cold Mountain
- (6.18 mi) JRO's Burgers & Subs
- (6.24 mi) BearWaters Brewing Company
- (5.54 mi) Jukebox Junction Soda Shoppe
- Attractions near Blue Ridge Parkway:
- (9.82 mi) Asheville Hot Air Balloons
- (7.07 mi) Cradle of Forestry
- (9.74 mi) Sliding Rock
- (4.40 mi) Devil's Courthouse
- (8.67 mi) Skinny Dip Falls