Blue Ridge Parkway

[MJB]

I am thinking of doing the entire Blue Ridge Parkway this summer
Planing on going south to north, so starting at Cherokee North Carolina.

Any suggestions?

[Ric]

Do a search...i think there's a web site that keeps up-to-date on what parts of the BRP are open or closed for whatever reason. They probably have maps that show all the resources you'll need along the way. Also, as far as i know there is only one hotel/resort on the BRP and it's somewhere south of Ashville. Otherwise, you'll have to arrange your nights, eats and gasoline fill-ups in towns off the BRP.

Sounds like a great ride. I've done a couple hundred miles from Cherokee, I'd love to do the whole thing. Love the tunnels (careful of using your sunglasses in bright sun) !

[NoRRmad]

There are a couple of gas stations on the BRP, but it's fun to occasionally just dive off to the side for a few miles and check out the towns. There are lots of them, and the roads getting there are more challenging than the BRP itself. Usually there are motels and places to eat, too.

The speed limit is fifty-five, and rumored to be well-enforced -- if that makes a difference to you. (Thirty-five on the Skyline Drive to the north, which is also scenic.) There are many deer.

I did the Skyline Drive, Blue Ridge Parkway, Cherohala Skyway combo a few years ago, and it was really a nice gentle scenic trip mid-week. I hear it gets a bit crowded on the weekends.

Have fun!

[Boxer]

The last time I was on the BRP the speed limit was 45 mph. Maybe it has changed since then, but it has been a while.

This the BRP website you need to refer to for your BRP info

http://www.virtualblueridge.com/

[NoRRmad]

Whoops, you're right.

As a rule, the speed limit on the Parkway is 45 mph., except in developed areas and near major intersections, where it drops to 35 mph. Traveling at faster speeds might cause you to miss a hairpin curve, or hit an animal, cyclist, or pedestrian. Motorcycling the Blue Ridge Parkway is enjoyable, but we have more than our share of motorcycle accidents, many times because the operator is not careful enough in negotiating the winding, frequent curves.

[Ric]

Note: there are only three gasoline station directly on the BRP....and I would not bet on them being open !


Parkway Stations

Peaks of Otter Mile Post 86
Doughton Park Mile Post 241
Mount Pisgah Mile Post 408

Stations in Virginia

US 250 Mile Post 0
US 60 Mile Post45.6
US 501 Mile Post 63.9
US 460 Mile Post 95.9
US 220 Mile Post 121.4
US 58 Mile Post 177.7
US 52 Mile Post 199.4

Stations in North Carolina

US 21 Mile Post 229.7
US 421 Mile Post 276.6
US 321
Mile Post 291.9
US 221 Mile Post 317.5
US 70 Mile Post 382.4
US 74A Mile Post 384.7
US 25 Mile Post 388.1
US 276 Mile Post 411.9
US 19A Mile Post 443.1
US 19 Mile Post 455.7

[MJB]

Thanks for the tips guys.

Now 1 more question. I heard it is better to ride from South to North as I will be on the outside lane, and the mountains are easier too see from the sadel

[Ric]

Thanks for the tips guys.

Now 1 more question. I heard it is better to ride from South to North as I will be on the outside lane, and the mountains are easier too see from the sadel

From my experience in N.C. I would agree.

[mjcraft]

Thanks for the tips guys.

Now 1 more question. I heard it is better to ride from South to North as I will be on the outside lane, and the mountains are easier too see from the sadel

From my experience in N.C. I would agree.

+1 on this for the most part, although I really don't think it matters too much IMHO; you should be keeping your eyes on the road! All the really nice places with overlooks are well marked from both directions, so your direction of travel isn't important at all.

Not that you asked, but I highly recommend Blue Ridge Campground (south of Asheville, NC) and Willville Bike Camp (near Meadows of Dan, VA). Both are bike only and you'll probably meet some cool people there. I also recommend camping at Doughton Park near Sparta, NC. They have a lodge, too.

-Michael

[ron prior]

Don't know if your gone already but. As others have said, gas is often not easy to find. Don't wait till ya {Need} cause ya may have to travel a good distance to the gas, & then back to the Parkway.

There are two state run lodges along the way. Very nice, great food, but pricey.
Also the one I stopped at & I'm told the other as well, has no phone,radio, orTV in the rooms, & none available.

Must admit though,..I enjoyed the deck & the silence more than I expected..

The Parkway is a beautiful ride...thinking of doing it again.

I went on weekdays Tue & Wed had the road to myself......BTW I went North to South.

Enjoy & ride safe!!.............Ron

[MJB]

Thanks guys for all your tips.
I'm thinking of doing the trip 2nd week of August.
Hopefully not much rain then

I picked up these 6 maps
http://shop.americaridesmaps.com/The-Bl ... BRPS17.htm

They seem to have a lot of info, including showing gas locations
I plan to look for gas every 100 miles or so