FAQ

Culled from thousands and thousands of visitors, here are the top 3 questions that are asked about the Blue Ridge Parkway.

WHERE CAN I GET GASOLINE?

The short answer is, you can’t. There are too many sensitive watershed areas to safely handle the dispensing of gas anywhere along the Blue Ridge Parkway. However, part of the magic of America’s Favorite Drive is exploring the region’s culture found in the small towns and villages all along the parkway. Just be sure you take stock of how far you can drive on the amount of gasoline you have and map out where you can get more in advance!

CAN WE DRIVE THE PARKWAY IN WINTER?

Yes, as long as conditions are safe.

WHAT ARE THE MAIN THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND ON THE PARKWAY?

Below are just some very sensible things you should remember as you wind your way along the Blue Ridge Parkway:

• Obey speed limits! Driving the parkway safely means keep your speed at or below the posted limits – this can be a very twisting/winding road, and some of the curves are more difficult to navigate that most roads. Just pay attention, keep your speed down, and you should be fine. Besides, you want to soak in the experience, not have it just whip right by you!
• Let nature be! It is important that you refrain from picking flowers or gathering wood. The idea with the wildlands surrounding the Blue Ridge Parkway is to keep them that way – natural and wild. Keeping such an ecosystem as intact as possible means trying to minimize any further human disturbance of it.
• This is bear country. Seeing a bear during your journey is one of the most hoped-for and quintessential experiences of driving the Blue Ridge Parkway. Just remember that bears are wild and it is both illegal and unwise to attempt to feed or interact with such an animal. If you will be camping in the area, be sure to securely store all food containers and products inside your vehicle.