Planning ahead is always a good idea when traveling, but along the parkway unexpected things may draw your attention or take a little more of your time. Be flexible, slow down, and enjoy what comes your way as you travel.
Remember these 10 Tips for Planning a Successful Parkway Trip:
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Check the latest road status information before heading to the Parkway.
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The parkway requires extra care while driving. Steep grades, tight turns and built-in distractions are all part of what make a parkway experience unique. Enjoy the view, watch the road!
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Observe posted speed limits. The parkway was designed as a slow, leisurely motor route. No need to rush.
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Pack your patience and expect heavy traffic or delays. The Blue Ridge Parkway features over 200 formal scenic overlooks. If one overlook is full of visitors and cars, just keep going, another one is not too far away.
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Check the Opening Schedule and Events Calendar. Most parkway facilities are open from Memorial Day until late October each year. Some visitor centers and campgrounds open earlier in the season. Ranger guided programs are offered during summer and early fall.
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Help keep wildlife wild by giving them their space and never feeding them.
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Plan to visit a nearby community. Communities adjacent to the parkway offer visitors experiences and events, along with a wide variety of food, lodging and shopping options.
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Make reservations in advance for in-park lodging and camping. Campsites at one of the parkway’s eight campgrounds are available for reservations at www.recreation.gov or (877) 444-6777.
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Come prepared to recreate responsibly and follow Leave No Trace principles. We all share in the stewardship of the parkway and its resources so be prepared, leave it like you found it, carry out trash and stay on trails!
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If traveling with your pet, know the regulations. Pets must be kept on a leash of no more than 6ft at all times for the safety of your pet, park wildlife and other visitors.
Getting Around
Learn all you need to know about getting around on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Your Safety
Tips on how to stay safe while visiting the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Weather
Temperatures and weather conditions can change rapidly in the mountains, even in summer. Be sure to check a current weather report before heading to the parkway.
