Blue Ridge Parkway in May

[2015FlHXS]

I'm thinking about finally planning on running the entire BRP this spring from North to South. Has anyone gone this way recently and can you offer suggestions on an itinerary? I'm specifically looking for things like miles ran in one day and stop overs along with places to stay. I've ran from Cherokee to Ashville years ago and the road and views were awesome, although it was pretty strange running by myself. I didn't see a soul for hours, much different than any other roads in the area. Oh do you think the first week of May will be too early?

Thanks,
Chris

 

[Scarpe]

I have run the Blue Ridge quite a few times. My favorite road. Early May can be cold. Usually I run it in June or July. But May will have less traffic. Not sure if the first week is too early for the flowers. Depends on the temperature I think. Just make sure you have adequate warm clothes and rain gear. There is a little area up north called Little Switzerland. Stay at Big Lynn Lodge. Breakfast and supper included with room. Gourmet chef. Dinning room overlooks mountain valley. Cottage with rockers overlooking same valley. I ran from The north at Belle Vista to Asheville in 2 or 3 days, depending on stops and how far we felt like going. Tuggles Gap had a restaurant with Best burgers and fries. Cold beer. The toughest part is running from Toledo area to the Parkway, and back home. I would say you are going to need 7 days from home to home just doing Blue Ridge. Add another day or so if you start at Front Royal, the beginning of Skyline Drive. Add a couple days if you avoid interstates going to and returning home.

 

[Scarpe]

I meant Buena Vista, not Belle Vista

 

[Mojo]

Perfect to ride it, be aware of cold mornings in the mountains. E N J O Y !

 

[Bones]

I rode some of it in early May years back. Beware that some places don't open in early May and you may not find gas. That happened to me at Mt. Pisgah. And take long johns. You will probably see ice on the sides of the mountain as you ride along. It makes for nervous riding thinking about ice on the road or in the tunnels. Personally I would wait a little later, like early June.

 

[Rhsra]

Traditionally early May is dicey in the Appalachians .its been a late winter this year and will probably carry over into April.. Like Bones and Mojo said.. Early mornings are still cold and ice is around shaded areas and bridges. Also be aware of sand left over from winter snow removal..
You got me thinking.. Sounds like a good getaway.. Might see you up there


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[Knotts89]

I live in Bedford Virginia and spend a lot of time on this part of the Parkway. They have a peaks of otter restaurant when going through the Bedford area. Its right on the Parkway. A few good overlooks too. Enjoy your trip me and the wife will be doing it in September.