Blue Ridge Parkway
United States
The most beautiful drive in the eastern United States, 755 km of ridge-top parkway through the Appalachians from Shenandoah National Park to the Great Smoky Mountains, with no commercial traffic, no billboards, and no stoplights. Named overlooks appear every few kilometres above a landscape of unbroken hardwood forest turning gold and crimson each October.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Rockfish Gap
The Parkway's northern terminus at milepost 0, where Skyline Drive ends and 755 km of billboard-free ridge-top road begins heading south.
- Peaks of Otter
Three peaks above a glacial lake at milepost 86. Sharp Top summit offers one of the Parkway's finest 360-degree views over the Virginia piedmont.
- Roanoke
The Parkway's largest city. The Taubman Museum of Art and the Mill Mountain Star, the world's largest illuminated man-made star, define the cultural anchor.
- Linn Cove Viaduct
The S-curve concrete viaduct snaking around the flank of Grandfather Mountain, built in 1987 to avoid disturbing the fragile rock. An engineering landmark.
- Asheville
The South's most creative small city. The 250-room Biltmore Estate, the River Arts District, and a dense Art Deco downtown make it the essential Parkway stop.
- Waterrock Knob
The Parkway's highest accessible overlook at 1,855m near milepost 451. On clear days four states are visible across the southern Appalachians.
- Cherokee
Eastern Band Cherokee gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The Museum of the Cherokee Indian tells the story of the 1838 Trail of Tears.
Where to Eat
- The Red Fox TavernAmerican
A cozy spot offering classic American dishes with a Southern twist, known for its hearty breakfasts and friendly atmosphere.
- The LocalFarm-to-Table
Serves locally sourced dishes in a rustic setting, highlighting the flavors of the Blue Ridge region.
- CúrateSpanish Tapas
Offers authentic Spanish tapas in a lively atmosphere, with a focus on traditional flavors and fresh ingredients.
- The Chocolate FetishDesserts
Renowned for handcrafted chocolates and truffles, a sweet stop for any traveler with a penchant for confections.
Things to Do
- Humpback RocksHike
A steep but rewarding hike leading to panoramic views of the Shenandoah Valley and the Blue Ridge Mountains.
- Natural Bridge State ParkNature
Features a 215-foot natural limestone arch, a geological wonder and historic landmark.
- Biltmore EstateHistoric Site
America's largest privately-owned home, offering tours of the mansion, gardens, and winery.
- Great Smoky Mountains RailroadScenic Train Ride
Offers scenic excursions through the Smoky Mountains, showcasing breathtaking landscapes and historic trestles.