Blue Ridge Parkway | American Tour Association

A PLACE TO REMEMBER

Make room for the wonder.

This mountain parkway connects overlooks, forest walks and cultural stops across Virginia and North Carolina. Plan a section that fits your day, rather than trying to make the full route a single outing.

Summer colors at Mabry Mill — Located in Virginia's Plateau district, picturesque Mabry Mill is one of the most iconic features of the Blue Ridge Parkway
NPS Photo · Photography credit

water cascading into Linville Falls plunge basin — The Linville Gorge offers visitors the opportunity to learn about fascinating geology and view magnificent waterfalls.
NPS Photo · Photography credit

BUILD YOUR OWN PARK DAY

Places to consider

01Mountain overlooks
02Mabry Mill area
03Selected short walks

Choose the stops that suit your time and your party. These are ideas for exploring, rather than a fixed itinerary or a promise that every road, trail or facility will be open.

Follow the season, at an easy pace

Spring flowers and autumn foliage give this drive different personalities through the year. Elevation and weather shift the timing, so build a trip around current conditions rather than a fixed bloom or color date. Asheville, Boone, Roanoke and Waynesboro can serve as bases for different sections.

Before you set out

Check closures and detours before choosing your section. Motorcoach drivers should confirm tunnel clearances and appropriate access roads.

Give the day room

Allow time for the approach, parking and breaks. Pick walks for the least mobile members of your party, and leave space for weather or a change of plans.

Bring your group

Confirm vehicle access, drop-off and parking with the park. Check any guided tours, transport and accessibility arrangements before fixing the rest of the itinerary.

Official park visitor guide ↗Current conditions ↗

Check the official NPS guide for current access, fees, passes, reservations and permits. Gateway names identify useful surrounding communities or access areas, not exact entrance directions. Photographs may show earlier seasons or conditions.