Blue Ridge Parkway Accessibility
Trip Planning for Disabled & Differently-Abled Visitors
The Blue Ridge Parkway strives to offer meaningful, accessible experiences for all visitors. Whether you are a wheelchair user, live with limited mobility, or prefer gentler paths, the Parkway includes paved overlooks, ADA-accessible trails, and supportive facilities. Use this guide to help plan a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable journey.
Accessible Parkway Trails
Use the heart icon throughout the site to save your favorite attractions, lodging, and restaurants. Then head to our Trip Planner to map out your Blue Ridge Parkway road trip.
Accessibility & Safety Tips
While much of the Parkway is known for its rugged terrain and steep vistas, many overlooks are paved and designed for accessibility. We recommend maintaining caution as you explore — especially near drop-offs, cliffs, waterfalls, and roadsides lacking guardrails.
Tips for an Inclusive Parkway Visit:
- Download the Blue Ridge Parkway Travel Planner App before your visit. Use it to find accessible trails, overlooks, and facilities along your route.
- Call ahead to visitor centers or sites to confirm accessibility details and seasonal changes.
- Bring mobility aids, walking sticks, or assistive devices as needed.
- Travel with a companion whenever possible for support in navigating uneven or challenging terrain.
Important Safety Reminders:
- At overlooks, short walls or ledges sometimes border steep drop-offs. If balance is unsteady, stand back, hold onto a stable surface, or enjoy the views safely from your vehicle.
- Near waterfalls, streams, and rocky surfaces, conditions may be wet and slippery. Supervise children, wear appropriate footwear, and avoid venturing too close to edges.
- Always check the National Park Service website or the Parkway website for seasonal closures and access advisories.
- Respect posted signage, stay on designated paths, and avoid venturing beyond safe zones.
More Parkway Resources:
- National Park Service – Blue Ridge Parkway: Find detailed official guidance on accessible sites, visitor centers, and facilities.
- Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation: Explore accessibility initiatives and infrastructure improvements happening along the Parkway.
- United Spinal Association: Discover insights into accessible trails across the Blue Ridge region.
Accessible Overlooks & Waterfalls
Discover beautiful views without rugged terrain. Experience the Parkway’s natural beauty with accessible overlooks and waterfalls via paved paths, ramps, and accessible viewing platforms.
Accessible Waterfall Viewing
- Dry Falls (Highlands, NC): The paved boardwalk from the parking area leads to a handicapped-accessible overlook deck.
- Glassmine Falls Overlook (Milepost 361.2): Viewable from a roadside lookout near Craggy Gardens — no trail walk required.
- Price Lake Area (Boone, NC): A wheelchair-accessible ramp departs from the Lake View Overlook, extending about ¾ mile to an observation deck.
Parkway Tip: Some waterfall trails may require walking or contain steps — double-check conditions before visiting.
Waterfalls
Discover accessible waterfalls throughout the Parkway regions and start planning your visit.
Visitor Centers & Picnic Areas
Many Parkway features are designed with accessibility in mind. Most visitor centers, restrooms, and picnic areas are wheelchair accessible, though some may require assistance or have small slopes.
Accessible Trails & Walkways
These trails and paths are among the most mobility-friendly options on or near the Parkway. Surfaces and skill levels vary, so review trail details before visiting.
Accessible Trails
Mountain Farm Trail
Humpback Rocks, Virginia
Self-guided to a pioneer farmstead; accessible from the Visitor Center.
Milepost 5.8
Otter Lake Loop Trail
Virginia
Trail around Otter Lake; includes a handicap-accessible observation deck on the lakeshore.
Milepost 63.1
Abbott Lake Trail
Peaks of Otter, Virginia
ADA-compliant paved loop around Abbott Lake; the only fully compliant paved trail on the Parkway.
Milepost 85.6
Mountain Industry Trail at Mabry Mill
Virginia
Paved path exploring the entire exhibit area at Mabry Mill; highly accessible.
Milepost 176.2
High Piney Spur
Near Cumberland Knob, NC
Short, paved trail leading to a scenic viewpoint near Cumberland Knob.
Milepost 218.6
Cone Manor area, Moses H. Cone Memorial Park
Blowing Rock, NC
Accessible ramp leads from Manor House parking to accessible gravel carriage roads for manor and vistas.
Milepost 294
Bass Lake Loop, Moses Cone Park
Blowing Rock, NC
Easy gravel loop around Bass Lake; likely accessible from parking (exit to US 221 near Blowing Rock).
Milepost 294.6
Price Lake Trail
Price Park, NC near Blowing Rock
Wheelchair-accessible ramp to a lake shore observation deck and creekside fishing spots.
Milepost 297.2
Linn Cove Viaduct
NC
Paved trail running beneath the Linn Cove Viaduct; accessible from the Visitor Center parking.
Milepost 304.4
Mount Mitchell State Park
NC
Paved trail to the peak and summit tower, offering accessible 360-degree views.
Milepost 355.3
Folk Art Center
Asheville, NC
A short, paved loop trail around the Folk Art Center building.
Milepost 382
Waterrock Knob
Sylva, NC
Steep paved path to a viewpoint; useful for some mobility challenges but does not reach the summit.
Milepost 451.2
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Map out your Parkway trip with a digital version of our complimentary travel guide.
