The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most scenic drives in the United States. Stretching 469 miles from Virginia to North Carolina, this iconic route connects Shenandoah National Park to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Known as America’s Favourite Drive, the parkway offers stunning mountain views, peaceful forests, historic sites, and outdoor adventure at every turn.
This Blue Ridge Parkway guide covers the best overlooks, hiking trails, must-see stops, driving tips, and the ideal time to plan your road trip.
Table of Contents
Why Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway?
The Blue Ridge Parkway is designed for slow, scenic travel, making it perfect for families, photographers, and nature lovers. Unlike busy highways, this route has no billboards, commercial traffic, or fast-paced driving.
Highlights of the Parkway
- Panoramic mountain vistas
- Wildlife viewing, waterfalls, and hiking
- Easy pull-off overlooks
- Historic cabins and cultural sites
- Seasonal color, especially in fall
Blue Ridge Parkway Route Overview
| Section | Location | Mileage | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northern Section | Shenandoah NP to Roanoke | Milepost 0–120 | Overlooks, historic farms |
| Central Section | Roanoke to Linville Falls | Milepost 120–316 | Peaks of Otter, Linn Cove Viaduct |
| Southern Section | Linville Falls to Great Smoky Mountains | Milepost 316–469 | Waterfalls, highest elevations |
Best Blue Ridge Parkway Stops
Humpback Rocks (Milepost 5)
This early stop offers historic farm buildings and a short but steep hiking trail with sweeping views of the Shenandoah Valley.
What to Do
- Farm Museum
- Humpback Rocks Summit Trail
Peaks of Otter (Milepost 86)
A classic Blue Ridge Parkway destination known for its mountains and hiking.
Highlights
- Sharp Top Summit
- Abbott Lake Loop
- Visitor Center
Mabry Mill (Milepost 176)
One of the most photographed landmarks on the parkway.
Top Features
- Historic gristmill
- Walking trails
- Cultural demonstrations
Blowing Rock and Moses Cone Manor (Milepost 294)
A charming mountain town with a historic mansion and scenic carriage trails.
Must-See Sites
- Moses Cone Memorial Park
- Flat Top Manor
- Bass Lake Trails
Linn Cove Viaduct (Milepost 304)
One of the most iconic engineering structures in the Eastern United States, curving around Grandfather Mountain.
What to Expect
- Stunning photo opportunities
- Visitor center exhibits
- Trails beneath the viaduct
Linville Falls (Milepost 316)
One of the most popular waterfalls along the drive.
Trail Options
- Erwins View Trail
- Linville Gorge Overlook
- Plunge Basin Trail
Craggy Gardens (Milepost 364)
Known for its rhododendron blooms in early summer.
Things to Do
- Craggy Pinnacle Trail
- Visitor center
- Panoramic overlooks
Mount Mitchell State Park (Milepost 355)
The highest peak east of the Mississippi River.
Highlights
- Summit observation deck
- Museum and exhibits
- Short, accessible trails
Waterrock Knob (Milepost 451)
A great stop near the end of the parkway with views in all directions.
Don’t Miss
- Sunrise and sunset overlooks
- Half-mile summit hike
Best Time to Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway
The parkway is open year-round, but conditions vary.
Seasonal Guide
- Spring: Wildflowers and mild temperatures
- Summer: Green landscapes and full access to trails
- Fall: Peak foliage, the most popular season
- Winter: Possible closures due to snow and ice
Travel Tips for the Blue Ridge Parkway
What to Bring
- Water and snacks
- Layered clothing
- Hiking boots
- Offline maps
- Binoculars and camera
Driving Tips
- Expect a slow pace with 45 mph maximum speed
- Limited cell service along many sections
- Check road closures before your trip
- Fuel up before entering long stretches without services
Where to Stay Along the Parkway
Lodges on or Near the Parkway
- Peaks of Otter Lodge
- Pisgah Inn
Popular Towns for Overnight Stops
- Roanoke, VA
- Blowing Rock, NC
- Boone, NC
- Asheville, NC
Final Thoughts
The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of America’s greatest road trips. With mountain landscapes, scenic overlooks, historic stops, and endless outdoor activities, this guide provides everything you need to plan your journey along this legendary route. Whether you’re exploring for a weekend or driving the full 469 miles, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers a truly unforgettable experience.
