Ultimate 5-Day Itinerary for the Blue Ridge Parkway

High up in the Appalachian mountains between Virginia and North Carolina, there’s a gently winding road that seems frozen in time. There are hardly any restaurants, stores, billboards, or even homes on this route. Some of the only hints of civilization are rustic stone mile markers and nondescript signs signifying upcoming trails and overlooks.

This is the Blue Ridge Parkway, a road that exists solely for the pleasure of driving through some of the East Coast’s most stunning mountain landscapes. At 469 miles from end to end, it’s a delightfully meandering escape from the bustle of typical American roadways.

Growing up in the hills of Amherst County, Virginia, the Parkway was practically at my doorstep. It’s where my family went for leisurely Sunday drives, picnics by mountain streams in the summer and leaf-peeping in the fall. My childhood memories include hiking beside waterfalls, spotting bears in the forest, and scrambling to the summit of some of the highest peaks in the Appalachian Mountains. I’ve traveled all over the world since then, but I still consider the Blue Ridge Parkway to be one of the most beautiful places in the world.

Planning Your Trip

Technically, you could drive the entire Parkway in a day, but you could also spend weeks exploring the forests along the road. There are plenty of entry and exit points along the Parkway, which means your drive can be as long or as short as you want. Here, we’ll share how to drive the entirety of the Parkway in five days, but you can just as easily choose your favorite stretch and focus your attention there.

• Trip length: The Blue Ridge Parkway stretches 469 miles through the Appalachian Mountains, between Shenandoah National Park and Great Smoky Mountains National Park. In good conditions, you could complete the route without stopping in about 10 hours, but taking your time is the point of this trip, so take at least a weekend to explore.
• When to go: The views from the Parkway are spectacular year-round, but they’re most stunning in the fall, when the foliage is at its peak. This is also the busiest time on the Parkway, so be prepared for more traffic, especially on the weekends. If you go in the winter, check ahead for road closures, as the higher elevations often get more snow and ice than lower areas.
• Where to begin and where to end: The north end of the Parkway begins at Rockfish Gap near Waynesboro, Virginia. It ends in Cherokee, North Carolina. There are numerous access points along the way, many of them convenient to major highways.
• Things to know: The speed limit on the Parkway doesn’t exceed 45 mph, and it sometimes drops even lower to account for dramatically sharp turns and steep hills. Plan to drive about 30 miles in an hour, minus any stops. Keep an eye out for wildlife, cyclists, and rockslides. If you’re not accustomed to mountain driving, be prepared for steep grades, narrow shoulders, and limited sight distances. Most importantly, keep your eyes on the road if you’re driving, and wait for the overlooks to enjoy the views.
• What to pack: If you plan to take advantage of the many hiking trails along the Parkway, wear proper footwear and attire. Temperatures in the mountains are often much cooler than lower elevations, so pack layers. Cell phones will not always have reception on the more remote stretches, so it’s a good idea to have a paper map and a general idea of your route. Come with a full tank of gas, snacks, and water so you won’t have to exit the Parkway until you’re ready.
• Tips for EV drivers: Electric vehicle drivers will need some extra planning to ensure that their vehicles stay charged. Charging stations are uncommon on the Parkway, so make note of where you can find them in nearby towns. Don’t expect to rely on cell service or GPS for on-the-go research, as it’s often quite spotty in the mountains.

Day 1: Crozet / The Ridge Region

Vibes: Small-town charm and big-time mountain views.

Do: Crozet is one of the closest towns to the Blue Ridge Parkway’s North Entrance and the ideal spot to begin your journey. It’s about 10 minutes from the Parkway, making it convenient for a quick start. You might also enjoy a unique hike at the Blue Ridge Tunnel Trail, which runs beneath Afton Mountain.

Eat: Start your day with a lavender latte and breakfast bagel in downtown Crozet. This local café is a popular choice for fueling up before hitting the road. Consider a stop at Crozet Pizza for dinner, which has received national acclaim.

Stay: The region offers small inns and Airbnbs; alternatively, you can venture a bit further into Charlottesville for traditional hotels. Cozy lodgings like the Inn at Stinson Vineyards or the Afton Mountain Inn are wonderful choices.

The drive (120 miles, 3.5 hours): After entering the Parkway at Rockfish Gap, you’ll begin your journey through the Ridge Region. You could stop at the Humpback Rocks visitor center to experience a taste of life in 1890s Appalachia. This area features multiple hiking trails, from easy to strenuous.

Day 2: Roanoke / The Plateau Region

Vibes: An outdoorsy mountain town, rolling farmland, and Appalachian culture.

Do: Roanoke boasts a vibrant historic district with breweries, street art, museums, and trendy boutiques, making it a perfect spot to prepare for a day on the Parkway.

Eat: Discover local flavors at various restaurants, sampling Southern cuisine made from local ingredients. If you need breakfast, visit a local bakery for a delectable sandwich or pastry.

Stay: Roanoke offers a range of accommodations, including affordable chain hotels and charming boutique options housed in historic buildings.

The drive (79 miles, 2.5 hours): As you drive through the Parkway’s Plateau Region, enjoy stops at scenic points. Begin your day on Mill Mountain Spur Road, where excellent city views await.

Day 3: Galax / The Highlands Region

Vibes: Mountain music, old-timey towns, and waterfalls.

Do: Embark on a journey through Virginia’s heritage music trail, the Crooked Road, which is renowned for bluegrass music. Explore downtown Galax for antique shopping and local dining options.

Eat: Savor local beer and delicious food at various establishments in Galax. Consider both casual and cozy spots as you travel through this region.

Stay: The area features multiple affordable chain hotels and charming cabins for those seeking a rustic experience.

The drive (94 miles, 3 hours): Begin your day at the Fancy Gap entrance, driving into North Carolina’s Highlands Region. Enjoy the wildlife and scenic views on your journey.

Day 4: Blowing Rock / The Highlands and Pisgah Regions

Vibes: High peaks, tunnels, and a stunning gorge.

Do: Blowing Rock’s quaint downtown is a delightful stop with various boutiques and cafes. Enjoy breathtaking views from the Blowing Rock itself.

Eat: Experience Appalachian cuisine at available eateries, perfect for a satisfying meal to fuel your adventures.

Stay: Choose from luxurious lodges to cozy bed-and-breakfasts in the area for a comfortable stay.

The drive (89 miles, 3 hours): Traverse through the picturesque Highlands and into the Pisgah Region, stopping at stunning viewpoints along the way.

Day 5: Asheville / The Pisgah Region

Vibes: Beer, folk art, and high elevations.

Do: Discover the many attractions in Asheville, including galleries, breweries, and the stunning Biltmore Estate. The Folk Art Center is also a must-visit for craft enthusiasts.

Eat: Savor delightful, locally sourced meals at some of the city’s best restaurants, or enjoy a casual meal at a local barbecue joint.

Stay: Whichever accommodation style you prefer, Asheville has options ranging from glamping to luxury hotels, ensuring a perfect ending to your Parkway journey.

The drive (87 miles, 3 hours): For your final hours on the Parkway, enjoy spectacular views of the southern mountain ranges as you make your way toward the Great Smoky Mountains.

This guide provides you with all the essential details to enjoy the Blue Ridge Parkway. Embrace the beauty and adventure that awaits you!