Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip

Blue Ridge Parkway
By BeckyCortino - Flickr

One of America's favorite road trips and one of the most visited destinations in the National Park system, The Blue Ridge Parkway is a beautiful 469 mile journey through outstanding scenery, natural environments and and fun recreational activities. 

The 469 mile Journey

There's plenty of places to camp along the way so get an RV and set out on an unforgttable journey through the best of Virginia and North Carolina.  The Road doesn't have many main roads off it, so an RV is the perfect way to be prepared for anything.  Stock up the food, and prepare for a journey through untouched wilderness.

Get off Highway 64 or US 250E and venture down "Blue Ridge Parkway".  There is so much beauty to be explored along the journey that to name a few highlights is hard.  However, the following should entice you in.

The Humpback Rocks
By amaz0n23 - Flickr

The Humpback Rocks, 5.8 miles in (northern end) are a scenic wonder and historic richland.  Enjoy one of many hiking trails, Picnic in nature and explore the historic farm buildings.  You could camp at the nearby Sherando Lake (off the Parkway)  or keep venturing on.  A reminder that there is plenty of RV parks along the route.

After 86 miles embrace the stunning views of the Peaks of Otter and the surrounding Jefferson National Forest.  Take a hike, go for a fish or camp under the stars at the foot of Sharp Top mountain.  

Mabry Mill
By Jason Barnette Photography -Flickr

At Mile 169, stop in at the Rocky Knob and Mabry Mill.  Enjoy a short trail around the mill and be sure to visit the Gritsmill, Sawmill and Blacksmith shop as well as taking mny pictures of the beautiful structures.  If you're there on a Sunday, stick around for the musicians and dancers that gather in the afternoon.

Partake in some bird watching at Cumberland Knob at mile 217 and keep an eye open for deer, racoons, foxes and bobcats as well as beautiful flowers at mile 240 in Doughton Park.

Moses H. Cone Park
By David Fre - Flickr

Gear up for another delicious picnic at Moses H. Cone Park at mile 294.  This family farm and memorial park invcludes a family cemetry, carriage and apple barn and for those interested in transportation- an extensive system of carriage trails.  There's also guided walks and an evening campfire. 

The Linn Cove Viaduct at mile 304 will astound as will the Craggy Gardens at mile 364.  The high summit elevations are home to a spectacular floral display of violets, blackberry, rhododendron, May-Apple and more.

The Folk Art Center at mile 382 shows travelers the best in traditional and modern arts and craft of the Appalachians.  Peruse over the book store and observe the craft demonstrations.

Waterrock Knob Sunsert
By Julie Findley jfindley8889 - Flickr

Enjoy more bird and wildlife watching at Mount Pisgah, mile 408.   The journey maybe nearing an end but one of the best places to view sunsets and sunrises is still before you.  Waterrock Knob at mile 451 is at almost a 6000 feet elevation and the perfect place to view the suns rise and descent across the rugged mountains.  Enjoy a hike to the summit and enjoy views of the summit and valleys.

The road comes to an end shortly.  Hopefully you've made the most of the hikes, visitors centres and magnificent vistas. 

Take advantage of this beautiful journey and take an RV to explore.  Find a special on one at RV Rental Sale Finder choose your pick up location and you're away.

Enjoy!!