Blue Ridge Parkway

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The Blue Ridge Parkway is a bucket-list ride: 469 miles of flowing curves, tunnels, and overlooks tracing the Appalachian ridgeline from Virginia to North Carolina. Think relaxed pace, big views, and plenty of places to pull over for photos or a breather.

Key Details

Distance	469 miles
Recommended Time	2–3 days (leisurely pace)
Speed Limits	45 mph max (lower in some sections)
Best Season	Late spring to early fall. Fall colors are peak.
Fuel & Service	Limited directly on the Parkway. Plan fuel stops in nearby towns.

Recommended Stops

Mabry Mill — 36.7416° N, 80.4131° W
Peaks of Otter — 37.4486° N, 79.6094° W
Craggy Gardens — 35.6981° N, 82.3845° W
Waterrock Knob — 35.4706° N, 83.1371° W

Restrooms & Break Areas

Blue Ridge Music Center Visitor Center — 36.6474° N, 80.6823° W
Peaks of Otter Visitor Center — 37.4458° N, 79.6091° W
Mount Pisgah Area (lodging/store/rest area) — 35.4047° N, 82.7520° W

Route Photos

Winding road through forest on the Blue Ridge Parkway

Ridge layers at sunset from a Blue Ridge Parkway overlook

Blue Ridge Parkway curving through green forested cliffs

Overlook view on the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina

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