Does Blue Ridge Parkway have a visitor center?
The visitor center near Asheville is a one-stop shop for all things Blue Ridge Parkway. Get a map, talk to a ranger, pick up some merchandise, learn about other area offerings, and explore parkway-themed exhibits.
How many visitor centers are on the Blue Ridge Parkway?
dozen Visitor Centers
There are over a dozen Visitor Centers along the Blue Ridge Parkway. While the physical size of the facility varies depending on exhibit and gift store floor space, the same information brochures and magazines can be obtained at all. Many are staffed by park Rangers who can answer whatever questions you might have.
What number is Blue Ridge Parkway?
Both Skyline Drive and the Virginia portion of the Blue Ridge Parkway are part of Virginia State Route 48 (SR 48), though this designation is not signed. The parkway has been the most visited unit of the National Park System every year since 1946 except four (1949, 2013, 2016 and 2019).
Is there cell service on the Blue Ridge Parkway?
Do not rely on technology, as cell phones do not work in many locations along the Parkway and GPS is sometimes unreliable. Your safety depends on your own good judgement, adequate preparation, and constant attention. Call the park information line at (828) 298-0398 for basic information about the Blue Ridge Parkway.
What is open on the Blue Ridge Parkway?
Facilities that are normally open year-round are: the NC Museum of Minerals, the Folk Art Center and the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center in Asheville, NC. In winter, sections of the Parkway may be closed by snow or ice.
How do I get on the Blue Ridge Parkway?
From Interstate 81, at exit 143, take I-581/US 220 south to the Parkway at milepost 121.4 (about 5 miles from Roanoke). From the south, it’s about 21 miles on US 220 from Rocky Mount, VA. From Interstate 77 at Fancy Gap: Take exit 8 onto US 52 and follow signs to the Blue Ridge Parkway entrance at milepost 199.4.
How long does it take to do the Blue Ridge Parkway?
This is why the parkway is the most visited single unit in the U.S. National Parks System. Driving straight through without stopping would take about ten to twelve hours, but three to seven days is needed to explore it well.
Can you get off the Blue Ridge Parkway?
Access Points & Orientation — Unlike the Skyline Drive, which has only four entry points, you can get on and off the Blue Ridge Parkway at numerous places. The northern entrance is at the southern end of the Skyline Drive, near Waynesboro on U.S. 250 at Exit 99 off I-64.
Is alcohol allowed on the Blue Ridge Parkway?
But it is illegal. The law pertains to any kind of alcohol, and to everyone, whether driving or not. Drinking alcohol or having an open container is also prohibited on trails, trailheads and any public use area, such as Craggy Gardens Pinnacle.
Where is the Blue Ridge Parkway welcome center?
The Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center is located in Virginia’s Explore Park, where visitors will find information about the Parkway and the Roanoke Valley and enjoy the unique gift shop featuring gifts, candies, and Parkway memorabilia. Directions: The Visitor Center is located at Milepost 115 off the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Is the Blue Ridge Parkway open?
The Blue Ridge Parkway is open year round except for sections that may be closed due to ice and snow, storm damage, or for construction or maintenance activities.
What is Blue Ridge Drive?
The Blue Ridge Parkway , called “America’s Favorite Drive,” is a U.S. National Parkway that winds 469 miles through Virginia and North Carolina, connecting Shenandoah National Park on its northern end and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on its southern end. It is a long, slow, and beautiful drive, famous for long-range vistas…