Connecting the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina, to the Shenandoah National Park, Virginia, the Blue Ridge Parkway is known by many as “America’s Favourite Drive”, and we’re inclined to agree. With unmatched views of the famous Blue Ridge Mountains and the larger Appalachian mountain range, this is a road that’s best driven slowly.
The Blue Ridge Parkway winds through the mountains for 469 miles and is best enjoyed when stretched across three to five days. It offers incredible vistas, as well as hiking and camping opportunities, so spend a while getting to know this all-American road and check out our guide to driving the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Things to do
Hiking
With dozens of hiking trails to explore, you’re bound to come across some fantastic self-guided routes while exploring this region, with hiking trails stretching for over 300 miles alongside and around the Parkway.
A nice and easy route, the Mountain Farm Trail departs from the Visitor Centre at Humpback Rock, at milepost 5.8. It only lasts for about 0.25 miles, so it’s a great option if you want a fairly quick leg-stretcher in-between drives. Nearby, you can also find a more moderate route, the Greenstone Trail, which is about two miles long.
For a series of fantastic hiking routes of varying difficulties, stop at the Peaks of Otter, at milepost 86. A popular hiking region, it’s open year-round and features a historic farm, campgrounds, picnic areas and a local restaurant and lodge, all of which are surrounded by the stunning Jefferson National Forest.
Canoeing and kayaking
A lovely spot to stop along the Parkway is at Julian Price Memorial Park, at milepost 296.5. With a campsite and beautiful lake, you can easily stay here overnight and enjoy everything the area has to offer.
Simply stop for a gentle bike ride or walk around Price Lake, or enjoy the kayak and canoe rental that’s available, before having a picnic in the nearby park. Ideal for families to enjoy, the lake spans 47 acres and is surrounded by thick woods, so it’s beautiful to visit when the seasons are changing.
Top stops along the route
Asheville
In North Carolina, Asheville is one of the largest cities along the Blue Ridge Parkway and is a good place to start your journey. If you’ve got time, spend a couple of days exploring the city, which is close to three rivers, making it a sought-after spot for adventure seekers who try their hand at white water rafting.
History-lovers can check out the 8,000-acre Biltmore Estate, with a 250-room mansion and beautiful gardens, while culture vultures should head to the River Arts District, home to chic eateries, art galleries and working artists’ studios. When you’re ready to hit the road, stop at milepost 384, where you’ll find the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Centre, home to a 22-foot interactive map to help you on your way.
Linville Falls
A beautiful three-tiered waterfall, Linville Falls can be found at milepost 316.4. Watch as the waters surge into Linville Gorge, and if you fancy stretching your legs there are three hiking trails around the falls to enjoy. This is a beautiful stop along the Parkway, so don’t forget your camera!
The Blowing Rock
Just down the road from the historic town of Blowing Rock, this cliff of the same name is a breath-taking ridge, which hangs 3,000 feet above the Johns River Gorge. Stop at milepost 291.9 and feel the strong winds which give the rock its name, as they blow up from the gorge below.
Blue Ridge Music Centre
Over the border into Virginia, at milepost 213, the Blue Ridge Music Centre offers free live music daily, between noon and 4pm. Explore the history of American music at the local museum, accompanied by the sound of guitar, banjo and, of course, the fiddle. Open daily from May to October, enjoy lounging in the sun in the outdoor amphitheatre and see if you can catch a live bluegrass concert.
Natural Bridge
One of the most popular stops along the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Natural Bridge in Virginia is a natural rock bridge nestled in the Shenandoah Valley. Found at milepost 61.6, this is an established tourist spot with a visitor centre and deli to stock up on snacks. The bridge itself is incredibly beautiful, and it’s possible to descend the 137 steps which will lead you to a scenic nature trail. Shuttle bus services are on hand to take you back up, for those who need it. Spend a little extra and see a tour of the Natural Bridge Caverns, which are said to be the deepest on the East Coast.
Find out more information on the Blue Ridge Parkway tourism site, here.
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