FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I have a wedding or meeting/event on the Blue Ridge Parkway?
A: See: Special Park Uses and Special Events Policy at
http://www.nps.gov/blri/planyourvisit/upload/updated%202007%20special%20event%20policy.pdf
Q: When are Visitor Centers, campgrounds and Parkway facilities open?
A: Explore a listing of openings, closings and hours.
Q: Where can I find the latest information on Parkway detours and closings?
A: At this Web address: http://www.nps.gov/blri/planyourvisit/roadclosures.htm
Q: Can tour buses travel on the Blue Ridge Parkway?
A: Yes – no special permits are required. Explore the list of all tunnel clearances on the Parkway.
Q: Can large RV's travel the Parkway?
A: Yes. Explore the list of all tunnel clearances on the Parkway.
Q: What is the lowest clearance of tunnels or bridges over the Parkway?
A: The South End between Route 19 and terminus at Cherokee is 10’6”. Explore the list of all tunnel clearances on the Parkway.
Q: Is parking adequate for large RV's and busses at Parkway scenic views and attractions?
A: Yes.
Q: Is the Blue Ridge Parkway open in winter?
A: Subject to snow and ice. For the latest information on Parkway closings, visit this Web address: http://www.nps.gov/blri/planyourvisit/roadclosures.htm
Q: What is the speed limit on the Parkway?
A: Maximum is 45 miles per hour, with some locations (in congested areas such as Mabry Mill) at 25 miles per hour.
Q: Why are there no white lines on the sides of the road?
A: This is a part of the design of the road itself and allows it to retain a rural feel and blend into the landscape. It is one of the touches that make this road beautiful. The landscape architects maintain this design and it meets federal safety standards.
Q: Do Parkway campgrounds take reservations for spaces?
A: Yes, at some locations at www.recreation.gov or toll free at (877) 444-6777.
Q: Do Parkway campgrounds accommodate RVs?
A: Yes, but water, electrical and sewage connections are not available. Centralized water and restrooms are available.
Q: Are there any gas stations on the Parkway?
A: Not directly on the Parkway. Gas is available not far off the Parkway at most U.S. or State Highway Intersections. Explore a list of nearby gas stations.
Q: Does the Appalachian Trail run with the Parkway at any point?
A: Yes. In Virginia, North of Roanoke.
Q: Where can I get information and brochures about traveling on the Parkway?
A: The Blue Ridge Parkway Association Directory and the Blue Ridge Parkway official brochure are included in a free information packet. However, for current road conditions and information, call (828) 298-0398.
Q: Can Parkway rangers make an arrest?
A: Yes.
Q: How can I learn about local history along the Parkway?
A: Call (828) 299-3507 to order by phone or you may purchase books and other information at Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Centers that have books available from nonprofit publisher Eastern National.
Q: How can I find out what there is to see and do along the Parkway?
A: Explore our new Web site’s “What to Do” section or peruse the Blue Ridge Parkway Association Directory and the Official Blue Ridge Parkway brochure.
Q: Is it all right to pull over on the grass beside the Parkway and spread a blanket for a picnic?
A: Yes. Vehicles should be fully off of the road so they can be entered and exited out of without impeding the flow of traffic. Driving vehicles across open fields is prohibited.
Q: What is a National Park Pass?
A: A pass that is available for $50 allows free entry to any National Park Service area with a fee. Age 62 and over can purchase a Golden Age Passport which is allows free entry into Parks with an entrance fee and gives a 50% reduction for camping and other user fees. Camping fee is $12 per night – No Entrance fee, at Blue Ridge Parkway National Park Service Campgrounds.
Q: What is The Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation?
A: Founded in 1997, this nonprofit foundation is the primary fundraising organization for the Parkway. It solicits donations and bequests from individuals, as well as grants and corporate support for a broad range of programs and activities that provide lasting benefits to the Parkway and its visitors. Contributions to the Foundation are tax deductible. For information about Foundation activities, including its estate giving program, write to Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation, P.O. Box 10427 Salem Station, Winston-Salem, NC 27108, call (336) 721-0260 or visit www.brpfoundation.org
Q: Who are FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge Parkway?
A: FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge Parkway is also non-profit, but unlike the Foundation, it is a membership organization, some 8,500 strong. Founded in 1989, this organization’s primary mission is to fundraise for Parkway programs such as Saving Parkway Views, Junior Ranger Program, Trails Forever and to mobilize and provide leadership for volunteers who assist with a wide variety of Parkway projects. Membership in FRIENDS is tax deductible. To join FRIENDS or for information about volunteer opportunities and other FRIENDS activities, write to FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge Parkway, P.O. Box 20986, Roanoke, VA 24018, call (540) 772-2992 (Toll Free 1-800-228-PARK) or visit www.BlueRidgeFriends.org.
Q: Is bicycling allowed on the Parkway?
A: Yes. Because the Blue Ridge Parkway was designed for motor travel bicyclists should exercise caution, have reflectors and riders should wear high visibility clothing and helmets. Avoid the Blue Ridge Parkway during fog and periods of low visibility. Long distance travelers should plan their overnight stays be sure to have plenty of water and food.
Q: Do all of those things apply to the Skyline Drive as well?
A: Yes. But the Skyline Drive has an entrance fee.
Q: Can we bury our pet along the Blue Ridge Parkway?
A: No. National Park Service regulations prohibit pet burials on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Recommend checking the city nearest where you usually visited the Parkway for pet burial information so you could locate an appropriate location close to that city or town.
July 29 - July 31 The story of the remarkable doctors who came into the mountains of WNC bringing medical care, education and economic development to an under-served area.
The North Carolina Arboretum – located at Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 393!
A family friendly indoor wine tasting event with gourmet food, music, kids activities, local farm produce and the finest wines in the Shenandoah Valley!
A journey on the Blue Ridge Parkway offers motorists spectacular views of Southern Appalachia’s diverse beauty for 469.1 uninterrupted miles.
Camping is one way visitors traveling through the Blue Ridge Parkway can spend the night under the stars in one of America’s most beautiful natural settings.
