The Parkway’s speed limit is typically 45 miles per hour (less in some places). The Parkway was designed for leisurely motoring.
Typical Drive Times.
| Section | Estimated Time |
|---|---|
| Blowing Rock (MP 293) to Asheville (MP 382) | 3 hours |
| Asheville (MP 382) to Cherokee (MP 469) | 3 hours |
Contents
How fast can you drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway?
45 mph
The parkway speed limit is mostly 45 mph, but occasionally it will drop to 25 mph or 35 mph.
Where does the Blue Ridge Parkway start in Cherokee?
Swain County
The Parkway begins in Swain County in Cherokee, at the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. (milepost 469.1).
How long does it take to drive the Blue Ridge Parkway from Charlottesville to Asheville?
Though it would only take nine or so hours to drive the road straight through from Charlottesville, Virginia, to Asheville, North Carolina, give yourself five days to mosey the 384 miles between these two cities, the most popular segment of the 469-mile-long Parkway.
Can you drive the Blue Ridge Parkway in one day?
That really depends on how many stops you want to make and what you want to see. You can easily spend a week driving the Blue Ridge Parkway.You could also drive the entire 469 miles in one day if you really wanted to.
Is it hard to drive the Blue Ridge Parkway?
The Blue Ridge Parkway isn’t a scary drive. It’s meant to be scenic and relaxing and, while there are some curves, there are no tight switchbacks or mountainside drop-offs. The dangers that could exist (bad road conditions) are rarely to never a problem, as the park rangers would close any road deemed unsafe.
Which is better Skyline Drive or Blue Ridge Parkway?
Blue ridge parkway goes through wilder terrain but is a bit more like a normal road than skyline drive (and toll free). It’s also much longer at about 450 miles to the 100 or so of Skyline drive. And it skirts closer to civilization at times than skyline.
How do I get to the Blue Ridge Parkway from Gatlinburg?
From Gatlinburg’s main drag, East Parkway, take a right onto US 321/US 441 N. Parkway. Highway 441 runs through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and you’ll be on the road for about 2-3 hours to get to Mile 469 of the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Which is better Asheville or Gatlinburg?
Asheville is progressive, leftist, somewhat snobby in attitude but not in dress. Gatlinburg is a down-home vacation spot, a throwback to earlier times, somewhat conservative, and unassuming. Which one you would prefer depends on you. Both have gorgeous scenery.
Are there bathrooms on the Blue Ridge Parkway?
Though mainly serving as a large arts and craft store, Parkway information is available at NPS office at the Cone Family mansion. Trails and restrooms are available.
How busy is the Blue Ridge Parkway?
During the pandemic, the Blue Ridge Parkway was extremely popular, with 14 million visits in 2020, the highest number in the national park system. “Weekdays and early in the day are both good options to avoid crowds,” Ney says.
How long is the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia?
754.8 km
Can you sleep in your car on the Blue Ridge Parkway?
Is camping or sleeping overnight in a vehicle in an overlook allowed? No. Camping is only allowed in one of the Parkway’s eight designated camping areas. Sleeping in a vehicle overnight is not allowed for visitor safety.
Does the Blue Ridge Parkway close at night?
The road is open 24 hours a day, weather permitting. Road closures due to inclement weather occur most frequently during winter. Sections of the road may also be closed during road maintenance projects. Check our road closure map to verify that the parkway is open before traveling.
What is the most scenic part of the Blue Ridge Parkway?
1. Natural Bridge — Milepost 61. Natural Bridge is one of the most stunning and unique sites along the Parkway.
Is it worth driving Blue Ridge Parkway?
The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most amazing drives I have ever taken. Elevations along the route range from 2000 feet above where the road passes farm land and forests to over 6000 feet above sea level as the road straddles the high shoulders of the tallest peaks in the eastern United States.
Are there gas stations on the Blue Ridge Parkway?
Q: Are there any gas stations on the Parkway? A: Not directly on the Parkway. Gas is available not far off the Parkway at most U.S. or State Highway Intersections.
How many tunnels are on the Blue Ridge Parkway?
Tunnels Along the Parkway
There are 25 tunnels in North Carolina and one in Virginia. These tunnels are listed below by milepost, length, maximum height (over the center of the road), and minimum height (over the edge of the road).
How long does it take to ride the Blue Ridge Parkway on a motorcycle?
about 2 hours and 10 minutes
The ride from Oconaluftee to Asheville only takes about 2 hours and 10 minutes for a non-stop trip. Of course, you will need to allow for any stops you make along the way. If you are enjoying the ride and have the time, continue on for as long as you want. You may turn around at any point for the return trip.
How much does it cost to enter Skyline Drive?
Shenandoah Entrance Fee – Single Vehicle – $30.00
This fee covers unlimited entry for one vehicle and passengers for seven consecutive days, beginning on the day of purchase. Vehicles must be private, noncommercial, and with a seating capacity of 15 or less.
Where does the Blue Ridge Parkway start and finish?
The parkway runs from the southern terminus of Shenandoah National Park’s Skyline Drive in Virginia at Rockfish Gap to U.S. Route 441 (US 441) at Oconaluftee in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Cherokee, North Carolina.
