Blue Ridge Mountains Road Trip Itinerary
The Blue Ridge Mountains Road Trip is a 932km journey that starts in Afton, United States and ends in Murphy, United States. This road trip is ideal for any driver looking for an unforgettable experience. Along this route, you will get to explore the beauty of the Appalachian Mountains, with plenty of attractions in Roanoke, Bristol, Asheville, and Cherokee. The best time to take this road trip is during the summer months, as you get to witness the stunning landscapes of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The road conditions are generally good, but be aware that some sections may be curvy and that seasonal road closures due to weather conditions may occur. The entire trip should take around 4 days to complete and can be done on a moderate budget.
4
number of days
932 km
route length
fair
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
low
accident level
START
Afton
Distance 932 km
Driving time 15.9 h
Pace: modest
242.3 kWh
Airports
CHO
,
IAD
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Afton, United States is the perfect starting point for a road trip named "Blue Ridge Mountains Road Trip". Located in Virginia, it provides access to the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains and to the Shenandoah Valley.
The town is known for its beautiful landscapes and its many attractions, like the Afton Mountain Vineyards, the Flying Fox Vineyard and the Cardinal Point Vineyard. All offer a great variety of local wines and a chance for visitors to learn about the region’s history.
Afton also offers many outdoor activities, from hiking and biking trails to horseback riding and fishing. For a unique experience, visitors can take a guided tour of the nearby Luray Caverns, the largest caverns in the eastern United States.
Visitors coming to Afton by air can use the Charlottesville-Albemarle Airport (CHO) as the closest international airport. There are many car rental companies at the airport that offer great deals on car rentals.
Overall, Afton, United States is a great starting point for the "Blue Ridge Mountains Road Trip" and offers many attractions and activities for all kinds of travelers.
1
Afton
- Blue Ridge Parkway
- Roanoke
Distance 209 km
Driving time 4.1 h
Pace: modest
54.3 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on a road trip through the beautiful Blue Ridge Parkway, starting in Afton and ending in Roanoke. This 130 mile journey will take you fewer than four hours, so you can take your time and enjoy the sights. As you make your way through the Blue Ridge Mountains, you can admire the picturesque landscapes, winding roads, and scenic views. Be sure to keep an eye out for some of the seasonal closures that may be in place in some sections of the Parkway. Don’t forget to take your time and enjoy the beauty of the area. There are plenty of attractions to explore along the way, so make sure you take the time to make the most of your journey. From Afton to Roanoke, you’ll find plenty of places to stop and explore. For more information on attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage.
Roanoke - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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2
Roanoke
- Blue Ridge Parkway
- Bristol
Distance 291 km
Driving time 5.2 h
Pace: modest
75.7 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you looking for a scenic road trip through the Blue Ridge Parkway? Start your journey in Roanoke, United States, and drive through the beautiful countryside of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The 181-mile drive takes fewer than 6 hours, and you'll be sure to find plenty of interesting sights along the way. Keep in mind that some sections of the road may be closed seasonally, and that the road is very winding in some areas. As you drive, be sure to take in the views of the lush forests, rolling hills, and mountain peaks. You'll also find plenty of opportunities to stop and explore, from historical sites to outdoor activities. Along the way, you'll arrive in Bristol, where you can find even more attractions, restaurants, and accommodation options. For more information, check out the itinerary of this stage of your road trip.
Bristol - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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3
Bristol
- Blue Ridge Parkway
- Asheville
Distance 175 km
Driving time 2.9 h
Pace: fast
52.4 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Bristol to Asheville! This 108-mile journey along the Blue Ridge Parkway will take you less than 3 hours, but you'll be sure to want to take your time and savor the sights. The winding road is especially scenic, and some sections may be closed seasonally, so keep an eye out for signs. Along the way, you'll be treated to some of the most beautiful views in the United States. Take a break and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, or take a hike and explore the lush forests. There are plenty of attractions to visit, including historical sites, museums, and galleries. You'll also find plenty of restaurants and campsites to rest and recharge. Make sure to look up the Itinerary for this stage for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. This will be an unforgettable journey you'll never forget!
Asheville - United States - North America - Road Trip - www.nps.gov
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4
Asheville
- Nantahala National Forest
- Cherokee
Distance 161 km
Driving time 2.6 h
Pace: fast
48.4 kWh
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Start your road trip in Asheville, United States, and head to the Nantahala National Forest. On the way, you will be able to appreciate the scenic road, winding through the mountains. Make sure to take some breaks so you can take in the stunning views of the landscape. The drive will take you fewer than 3 hours and cover a distance of 100 miles. Once you arrive at the Nantahala National Forest, you will find plenty of activities to do, such as hiking, camping, and rafting. The forest is also home to many species of wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled for some amazing wildlife sightings. Finally, make your way to Cherokee, where you can explore the Cherokee Indian Reservation and the Museum of the Cherokee Indian. Some sections of the route may be closed seasonally, and in some sections the road is very winding, so please drive carefully. This is one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Cherokee - United States - North America - Road Trip - Pikist
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5
Cherokee
- Murphy
Distance 96 km
Driving time 1.2 h
Pace: fast
28.8 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip experience? Start your journey in Cherokee, United States and drive through the scenic roads of the Appalachian Mountains to Murphy. The journey of 60 miles will take you less than two hours. Along the way, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Oconaluftee Indian Village, the Museum of the Cherokee Indian, and the Sequoyah Birthplace Museum.
In Murphy, you can explore the Valley River Arts and Music Festival, the Hiwassee River Rail Adventure, and the Fields of the Wood Bible Park. If you want to relax, take a hike at the Nantahala National Forest or enjoy some fishing at the Hiwassee River.
Make sure to take some time to admire the breathtaking views of the Appalachians and the Hiwassee River. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Murphy - United States - North America - Road Trip - National Park Service
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Murphy
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After completing the Blue Ridge Mountains Road Trip, the last stop is Murphy, North Carolina. Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Murphy is a great place to relax and enjoy the serenity of nature.
One of the most interesting places to visit in Murphy is the John C. Campbell Folk School. This school offers traditional Appalachian classes in music, storytelling, crafts, and other cultural activities. Visitors can take classes, attend workshops, and tour the grounds.
If you are looking for outdoor adventure, Murphy is the perfect place for a variety of activities. From hiking, biking, and horseback riding to fishing, canoeing, and kayaking, the great outdoors in Murphy is sure to please.
Murphy is also home to the Valley River Arts and Music Festival, which takes place in October each year. This festival brings together musicians, artists, and craftspeople who showcase the best of Appalachian culture.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is the Chattanooga Airport (CHA) in Tennessee, approximately 80 miles away.
Murphy is a great place to end the Blue Ridge Mountains Road Trip. With its unique culture and beautiful scenery, Murphy is sure to leave visitors with lasting memories.
Blue Ridge Mountains Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Afton
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End:
Murphy
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Distance:
932 km
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Stay:
4 days
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Getting there:
Charlottesville Albemarle Airport (CHO),
Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)
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When to drive:
April, May, June, July, August, September, October
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on the captivating Blue Ridge Mountains Road Trip, spanning approximately 932 kilometers (579 miles) from Afton, Virginia to Murphy, North Carolina. This journey invites you to explore the majestic Appalachian Mountains, where every turn reveals breathtaking vistas and quaint towns steeped in American history and culture.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Afton: Your adventure begins in Afton, where you can access the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway, often referred to as `America's Favorite Drive.` Afton Mountain also serves as the northern entrance to Shenandoah National Park, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
- Roanoke: Delve into Roanoke's vibrant cultural scene, boasting a mix of museums such as the Taubman Museum of Art, historic markets, and the Virginia Museum of Transportation, which showcases the region's railroad heritage.
- Bristol: Straddling the border of Virginia and Tennessee, Bristol is heralded as the birthplace of country music, home to the Birthplace of Country Music Museum, and hosts the annual Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion music festival.
- Asheville: Known for its eclectic arts scene, Asheville features the historic Biltmore Estate, America's largest privately-owned home, and a bustling downtown with a plethora of art galleries, theaters, and Art Deco architecture.
- Cherokee: Immerse yourself in the rich Native American heritage of the Cherokee people, and use this community as your gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most visited national park in the U.S.
Best Time to Go:
Experience the Road Trip in all its glory during the summer or fall. Summer offers lush greenery and ideal weather for outdoor activities, while autumn features a spectacular display of fall foliage. The Blue Ridge Parkway is particularly famous for its vibrant autumn colors.
Potential Risks:
While driving, be mindful of the winding mountain roads and sharp curves. Seasonal Road closures can occur due to inclement weather, including snow in winter and heavy rain or fog that can reduce visibility.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- This memorable journey is typically completed in 4 days but can be extended for a deeper exploration of the region.
- The Trip offers an array of experiences for a moderate budget, from affordable camping sites to unique bed and breakfast inns.
- Along the route, you'll find numerous trails for hiking, such as the Appalachian Trail and the Humpback Rocks trails, and spots for camping under the stars.
- The Road Trip blends the splendor of the natural world with a taste of Appalachian and Southern culture, arts, and history.
A good choice for:
The Blue Ridge Mountains Road Trip stands as an emblem of American beauty, offering an unparalleled mix of outdoor adventure, cultural exploration, and a journey through the heart of the Appalachian heritage. It's a must-do for Roadtrippers seeking to connect with the spirit of the great outdoors and the soul of mountain traditions.
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