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Navigating the Blue Ridge Parkway

As a designated National Scenic Byway that sometimes traverses deep into the mountainous forests of Virginia and North Carolina, the Blue Ridge Parkway as a journey is unique.

GPS isn’t reliable on the Parkway though the experience of stunning views is. Cell reception can be spotty so make use of a variety of digital and printed resources, maps, and apps. Navigate your Parkway adventure with confidence – whether you’re planning in advance or on the go.

Find a detailed list of Blue Ridge Parkway sections and their open status on the Blue Ridge Parkway – National Park Service website.

Blue Ridge Parkway Drive Times Map with Regions

Know Where You’re Going

Explore the top digital and printed tools for getting around the Parkway once you’re here:

  • Blue Ridge Pkwy Travel Planner mobile app – It works even without a cell signal which can be spotty in many areas of our mountains. No connectivity is no problem. Find helpful information on natural resources and culture, save places to your Favorites, and see what’s nearby and up ahead on the map. An invaluable tool for your trip, the Blue Ridge Pkwy Travel Planner mobile app is a free download with optional downloadable offline maps.
  • Paper maps and brochures never go out of style. Pick one up at a visitor center or download the digital versions to have within reach on your journey!

Front cover of BRPA's Blue Ridge Parkway map
When cell and GPS signals fail, the printed Blue Ridge Parkway Map and Blue Ridge Parkway Travel Planner are there for you. Pick them up from a visitor center when you need them or download the digital versions to your device while planning your Parkway trip.

A trusted resource for travelers to the Blue Ridge Parkway and surrounding communities, our publication is the only one of its kind available on the Blue Ridge Parkway at Parkway Visitor Centers.

You can also pick up a copy at Virginia and North Carolina State Welcome Centers, visitor centers in our gateway communities throughout the Blue Ridge Parkway region, and at many AAA locations.