A Blue Ridge Parkway riding experience is unlike any other, a slow-paced and relaxing drive revealing stunning views. It is named “America’s Favourite Drive” offering everything from amazing drives, picnic places, campgrounds, trails, breathtaking views, wildlife opportunities and waterfalls.

This National Parkway stretches 469 miles through the region, connecting Great Smoky Mountains National Park with Shenandoah National Park and has been the most visited unit of the National Park System every year.

How many kilometres is it / How long does it take to ride it?
Blue Ridge Parkway is 469 miles in length, connecting the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina to the Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. The Parkway’s speed limit is typically 45 miles per hour (less in some places) and usually takes two hours to enjoy the parkway.

Are there any accommodation or camping options along the way?
There are lots of campgrounds around the area. These campgrounds (Otter Creek Campground, Peaks of Otter Campground, Rocky Knob Campground, Doughton Park Campground, Price Park Campground, Linville Falls Campground, Crabtree Falls Campground, Mount Pisgah and Fancy Gap Cabins and Campground) are open from May – October with fees charged on a per night basis, which includes two adults over age 18.

You can find motorcycle-friendly accommodations in the following cities: Bryson City, Stecoah, Little Switzerland,Blairsville, Robinsville, Robbinsville, Waynesville, Marion, Blowing Rock, Jefferson, Fancy Gap, Ararat, Meadows of Dan, Dugspur, Floyd, Monroe, Lexington, Lyndhurst, Waynesboro.

Interesting sights on the route?
Popular destinations along the Parkway are: Humpback Rocks, James River, Peaks of Otter, Rocky Knob, Marbry Mill, Blue Ridge Music Center, Doughton Park, Moses. H Cone Memorial Park, Julian Price Memorial Park, Linn Cove Viaduct, Linville Falls, Museum of North Carolina Minerals, Crabtree Falls, Mount Pisagh and Waterrock Knob.

What is the best time of year to travel the route?
The Parkway is beautiful and has treasures to offer any time of the year. It’s best known for its peak fall colour during the month of October, usually mid to late month, but it depends on your elevation. Leaves will begin changing first on the highest peaks and conclude in the lower elevations.

To avoid crowds, be there early in the morning for an amazing experience and great photo opportunities.

Is the route ever closed over winter?
The Parkway is open year-round, but some sections may be closed in winter due to heavy snow. Stay up to date with the Blue Ridge Parkway road closure map.

Where are people able to get fuel when they are riding the route?
Fuel is not available on the Blue Ridge Parkway but is available not far off the Parkway at many U.S. or State Highway intersections.