A long pine tree stands in front of distant mountain ridges beneath an orange sunset

Parkway

Blue Ridge Parkway

visit on nps.gov

Info

A Blue Ridge Parkway experience is unlike any other: a slow-paced and relaxing drive revealing stunning long-range vistas and close-up views of the rugged mountains and pastoral landscapes of the Appalachian Highlands. The Parkway meanders for 469 miles, protecting a diversity of plants and animals, and providing opportunities for enjoying all that makes this region of the country so special.

Park Photos

A long pine tree stands in front of distant mountain ridges beneath an orange sunset
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Evening on the Blue Ridge Parkway

Credit: Harold Blackwood Photo

A long pine tree stands in front of distant mountain ridges beneath an orange sunset
Mountain vista and clouds on the Blue Ridge Parkway
Storm clouds breaking over the mountains at sunset, with fog hugging the valleys
A roadway on piers follows the curve of a mountainside, running toward distant mountains.
Black Bear sitting on large rocks at the edge of a forest
Summer colors at Mabry Mill
water cascading into Linville Falls plunge basin

Activities

  • Arts and Culture
  • Live Music
  • Auto and ATV
  • Scenic Driving
  • Biking
  • Road Biking
  • Camping
  • Car or Front Country Camping
  • Fishing
  • Freshwater Fishing
  • Food
  • Picnicking
  • Hiking
  • Backcountry Hiking
  • Front-Country Hiking
  • Junior Ranger Program
  • Wildlife Watching
  • Shopping
  • Bookstore and Park Store

Operating Hours

The road is open 24 hours a day, weather permitting. Road closures due to inclement weather occur most frequently during winter. Sections of the road may also be closed during road maintenance projects. Check our road closure map to verify that the parkway is open before traveling. Visitor centers and other facilities have hours and seasons that vary. Most picnic areas, campgrounds, and visitor centers are closed from the beginning of November until early May.

DayHours
Wednesday
All Day
Monday
All Day
Thursday
All Day
Sunday
All Day
Tuesday
All Day
Friday
All Day
Saturday
All Day

Weather info

The weather on the parkway can vary widely along its 469-mile route. Precipitation is possible any time of the year. Winter can be cold and snowy, especially at the higher elevations. Spring and fall can have large temperature swings, from near freezing to over 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Summers are hot in the lower elevations, but the highest elevations remain cooler. Summertime thunderstorms are common, so be prepared for weather changes.

Events