Blue Ridge Parkway Southern Terminus
A legendary scenic byway offering unparalleled mountain vistas, winding roads, and iconic overlooks through the Appalachian Highlands.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds
Blue Ridge Parkway Southern Terminus
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A legendary scenic byway offering unparalleled mountain vistas, winding roads, and iconic overlooks through the Appalachian Highlands.
"Pictures don’t do it justice; this is one of my favorite scenic routes in North Carolina."
⛽ Fill Up Before You Go
Gas stations are scarce on the Parkway. Always keep your tank full to avoid getting stranded.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Many overlooks have short trails. Be ready to explore on foot to get the best views!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rough Ridge Overlook
Milepost 302.8
Iconic views with a boardwalk trail offering stunning panoramic mountain vistas. Perfect for sunrise.
Linn Cove Viaduct
Milepost 304
A marvel of engineering, this unique bridge hugs the mountainside, offering incredible photo opportunities.
Devil's Courthouse
Milepost 304.4
Recently reopened after landslide repairs, this overlook provides dramatic, sweeping views of the surrounding peaks.
Sam Knob Overlook
Milepost 304.4
Known for its breathtaking sunsets, this spot offers a serene and colorful end to a day of driving.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for Parkway Closures
Embrace the Slow Pace
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⛽ Fill Up Before You Go
Gas stations are scarce on the Parkway. Always keep your tank full to avoid getting stranded.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Many overlooks have short trails. Be ready to explore on foot to get the best views!
📸 Pack Extra Batteries
You'll be taking tons of photos! Ensure your phone or camera is ready for all the scenic beauty.
⚠️ Watch for Potholes
Some sections, especially in NC, have potholes. Drive cautiously and be prepared for a bumpy ride.
Tips
from all over the internet
⛽ Fill Up Before You Go
Gas stations are scarce on the Parkway. Always keep your tank full to avoid getting stranded.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Many overlooks have short trails. Be ready to explore on foot to get the best views!
📸 Pack Extra Batteries
You'll be taking tons of photos! Ensure your phone or camera is ready for all the scenic beauty.
⚠️ Watch for Potholes
Some sections, especially in NC, have potholes. Drive cautiously and be prepared for a bumpy ride.
📱 Download Offline Maps
Cell service is spotty. Download maps beforehand to navigate and find points of interest.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Blue Ridge Parkway for its breathtaking, unparalleled mountain views and the joy of a slow, scenic drive. Many highlight the engineering marvel of the Linn Cove Viaduct and the beauty of overlooks like Rough Ridge. Some caution about potential potholes and the need for frequent gas stops, advising drivers to be prepared for a leisurely pace.
"I took my 2024 Honda Goldwing on the Blue Ridge Parkway. The word Parkway is very misleading, it's just a little 2 lane road that runs across the top of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The perfect road for motorcycles. The views were incredible, the tunnels were insane. I drove through the clouds and ended up on top of them. I don't know how many pictures they will let me put up, but surely not all of the 1000 I took. I will be going back mid October to try to catch the leaves changing colors. Don't miss this one, you'll regret it."
Mike Collins
"What an excellent drive! If you got this parkway on your bucket list, it's 110% worthwhile. Expect a fun time throughout the drive.
As a precaution, please do follow the speed limit, as there are a lot of spots that have extensive potholes, particularly in the North Carolina side. These may not damage your vehicle by any means, but nobody likes having a smooth riding experience getting jostled suddenly and possibly risking spilling that warm coffee into the car's interior. Also, much of the parkway is a one way per direction, so patience is a must when encountering slower drivers who are taking in the view."
Sean
"Beautiful country. Starting from the Southern end, Cherokee we drove northbound until we exited at Asheville. There were a couple places to stop (aside from many, many overlooks) for rafting, food and 1 spot that had only bathroom facilities + a steep walkway down to a swimming spot. We did get to reach the highest point of the BRP at 6053', Richland Balsam Overlook."
Bill Hutchings
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The southern terminus of the Blue Ridge Parkway is near Cherokee, North Carolina. You can access it via US-19/US-441. Many visitors start here and drive north towards Asheville.
The Parkway is generally open year-round, but sections can close due to weather, especially snow and ice in winter, or landslides from storms like Hurricane Helene. Always check the official BRP website for current closures. +1
Yes, you can drive from Charlotte to access parts of the Blue Ridge Parkway. The drive to the southern end near Cherokee is about 3-4 hours. You can then drive north on the Parkway.
Most visitors drive the Parkway in sections, often starting from either the northern or southern end. It's a slow, scenic drive, so plan for ample time to stop at overlooks and enjoy the views.
No, the Blue Ridge Parkway is a free-access scenic road. There are no tolls to drive on the Parkway itself.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets or entrance fees required to drive the Blue Ridge Parkway. It is a public road.
The Parkway is open 24/7, but visitor centers and facilities have specific operating hours, which vary by season. Always check the official NPS website for current hours.
Currently, there are no timed entry requirements for the Blue Ridge Parkway. However, due to its popularity, it can get crowded, especially during peak seasons.
Yes, RVs and large vehicles can use the Parkway, but be aware of tunnel clearances and steep grades. Some overlooks may have length restrictions.
Parking at overlooks and trailheads along the Blue Ridge Parkway is generally free.
📸 📸 Photography
Iconic spots include Rough Ridge Overlook (Milepost 302.8) for sweeping vistas, Linn Cove Viaduct (Milepost 304) for engineering shots, and Sam Knob Overlook (Milepost 304.4) for sunsets. Sunrise at Rough Ridge is also highly recommended. +2
Early mornings for sunrise and late afternoons for golden hour light offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting. Midday can be harsh, but the expansive views are still impressive.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant mountain layers. Don't forget a tripod for low-light conditions and long exposures.
Drone usage is restricted in National Park Service areas, including the Blue Ridge Parkway, to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Check NPS regulations for specifics.
Spring offers vibrant green foliage and wildflowers. Fall is famous for its spectacular autumn colors. Summer provides lush green landscapes, and winter can offer dramatic, misty scenes.
🎫 ⛰️ Hiking & Activities
Popular hikes include the short trails at Rough Ridge Overlook, the accessible path to Devil's Courthouse, and trails around Price Lake. Craggy Pinnacle and Mount Pisgah also offer rewarding hikes. +1
While not as numerous as in some other mountain regions, you can find waterfalls. Meigs Falls is mentioned as being along the drive. Some trails lead to smaller cascades.
You might spot white-tailed deer, black bears, various bird species, and other small mammals. Always maintain a safe distance and never feed wildlife.
There are several campgrounds along the Parkway operated by the National Park Service. Reservations are often recommended, especially during peak season.
Beyond Rough Ridge and Devil's Courthouse, consider Moses Cone Visitor Center overlooks (Mile 294), Price Lake (Mile 296), and overlooks near Altapass Apple Orchard (Mile 328).
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as dining options are limited and spread out. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) to avoid the largest crowds and enjoy more comfortable weather. Always check for road closures before you go, as unexpected detours can be challenging with children.
🏍️ Motorcycle Enthusiasts
However, riders should be aware of potential potholes and the need to maintain a safe speed, especially around blind curves and in tunnels. Filling up on gas whenever possible is crucial, as stations are infrequent. The fall foliage season is particularly spectacular for motorcycle tours.
📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers
Bring a variety of lenses, from wide-angle for grand landscapes to telephoto for distant mountain layers. A tripod is essential for capturing the best light during dawn and dusk. Remember to respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance, and always practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the pristine environment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Blue Ridge Parkway
Gas stations are few and far between along the Parkway, so it's crucial to fill up your tank whenever you see one, or ideally, before you even get on the road. Cell service is also notoriously spotty, so downloading offline maps is a lifesaver for navigation and finding points of interest.
Be prepared for a variety of road conditions. While many sections are well-maintained, some areas, particularly in North Carolina, can have potholes. Drive cautiously, especially around curves and in tunnels, and be patient with slower-moving vehicles.
Must-See Overlooks and Photo Spots
Another engineering marvel and photographic gem is the Linn Cove Viaduct (Milepost 304). This unique, snake-like bridge is a testament to construction in harmony with nature. Nearby, Devil's Courthouse (Milepost 304.4), recently reopened after repairs, offers dramatic vistas. For sunset, Sam Knob Overlook (Milepost 304.4) is highly recommended for its stunning light displays.
Beyond these iconic spots, don't overlook the overlooks near Moses Cone Visitor Center (Mile 294) and Price Lake (Mile 296). The beauty of the Parkway is that even the smaller, unnamed pull-offs can offer moments of quiet contemplation and incredible photo opportunities.
Hiking and Exploring Off the Parkway
For a more challenging hike with significant payoff, consider trails leading to peaks like Craggy Pinnacle or Mount Pisgah. These offer expansive views and a chance to experience the mountain environment up close. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as many trails can be uneven or steep.
Beyond hiking, you can find opportunities for picnicking, wildlife viewing, and visiting historic sites like the Moses Cone Manor. Always practice Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the natural beauty of the Parkway for future visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit