Blue Ridge Parkway

One cannot help but marvel at the beauty of the Blue Ridge Parkway, stretching 469 miles in total. It truly beckons one to embark on a leisurely 3-4 day journey, immersing oneself in the captivating scenery along the way. With the freedom to meander at a relaxed pace, pausing to savor the breathtaking vistas whenever they unfold, it promises an unforgettable experience of serenity and natural wonder. Captured on October 28th, 2023

A beautiful drive winding through the mountains The Blueridge parkway is a 469-mile road that travels through the Great smoky mountains. It was designed to connect Shenandoah National Park and Great Smoky Mountains National Park during President Roosevelt’s era in 1935. It was finally completed in 1987. Most of the route is windy 2-lane road at various elevations with about ½ of the route in North Carolina and ½ in Virginia. Many parts of the road are at higher elevations so driving conditions may be challenging due to limited visibility or changing weather. There is no fee to use the parkway. There are numerous sights and pullouts for you throughout the park. The speed limit is mostly below 45 miles per hour and quite often lower than this. There is something for everybody along the trail from waterfalls to hikes to panoramic vistas. I would recommend that if you want to see the entire trail, you should take vacations and see parts of it on different trips. I highly recommend that you plan your trips on the parkway with the weather in mind so that you can get the best experience. I have taken some beautiful pictures above the clouds from several of the pull-offs. Overall, it is a great path to enjoy the mountain scenery and views. Enjoy!

We did the Ashville to Cherokee section. The fall foliage was at peak. Stunning views. Minimal crowds. Foggy every 3rd overlook. It's just an amazing drive. The elevation changes are worth the experience.

This drive lives up to its accolades. I have traveled the world and grew up not far from here, however never been. My only regret is not visiting sooner.

There are some really pretty views in the few overlooks, but there is a complete lack of any other pull offs along the entire 10 miles I drove. You get to enjoy the views briefly as you drive past but do not get to stop. Very frustrating.

Loved the drive. Better on a motorcycle or a bicycle 🚲

Best kept secret in America! Google took us somewhere and dumped us out in the back streets of some town and said we were there! Asked at a truck stop and they said we had to back track 200 miles to get on it so we were already 8 hours into a 6 hr trip so we just went on!

An absolutely beautiful drive with some of the best views of the Appalachian mountains