Bicycle the Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway offers 469 miles of picturesque road cycling though the Virginia and North Carolina mountains. Along the route, elevations range from 649 to 6,047 feet. The parkway was designed as a scenic leisure road for motor vehicles, and does not have designated bike lanes, so cyclists need to use extreme caution and be prepared for: changing weather conditions, regardless of the season long distances between developed areas camping, lodging and other services that close seasonally Bicycling Regulations Bicycle riders must comply with all applicable state and federal motor vehicle regulations. Bicycles, including mountain bikes and e-bikes, may be ridden only on paved road surfaces and parking areas. They are prohibited on trails or walkways. Bicycle speed must be reasonable for control with regard to traffic, weather, road and light conditions. Bicycle operators must exhibit a white light or reflector visible at least 500 feet to the front and a red light or reflector visible at least 200 feet to the rear during periods of low visibility, between the hours of sunset and sunrise, or while traveling through a tunnel. Bicycles must be ridden single file and well to the right-hand side of the road, except when passing or turning left. E-bikes may be ridden in areas where traditional (non-motorized) bicycles are allowed. The term “e-bike” means a two- or three-wheeled cycle with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts (1 h.p.). You may ride and walk on closed portions on the parkway when the gates are closed due to inclement weather, but use extreme caution, as there may be debris, ice or snow on the road, and patrols are less frequent. If a section is closed for construction, it is closed to all traffic, including bicycles and pedestrians. For Safe Bicycling Wear a bicycle helmet. North Carolina law requires it for persons 16 and under and many Virginia counties do as well, but it’s the safe thing to do regardless of your age. Be sure your bicycle is in good condition. Carry a spare tube and tools for minor repairs. Wear high visibility clothing. It sets you apart from the scenery and makes you more visible to motorists. Avoid the parkway during periods of low visibility. Fog and rain may occur unpredictably. Reschedule your trip for better weather or follow lower elevation routes until weather conditions improve. Temperatures vary greatly along the parkway. Wear your clothing in layers. Carry plenty of water and high energy foods. Safe drinking water is available on a seasonal basis in picnic areas, campgrounds, concession operations, and visitor centers. Water from streams and springs is unsafe for drinking unless you purify it. Make an honest evaluation of your abilities before beginning a bicycle trip on the parkway. In some sections, you will climb over one thousand feet in just a few miles. When cycling in a group, adjust your spacing to allow motor vehicles to pass safely. Exercise caution whe riding through tunnels. There are 25 tunnels in North Carolina and 1 tunnel in Virginia. Carry a first aid kit. Carry some form of identification with you. Planning Extended Trips To assist in planning your trip, consult the parkway map and Blue Ridge Parkway Directory & Travel Planner. Some parkway campgrounds and services are located too far apart for convenient cycling. Camping is permitted only at established campgrounds. In some areas, U.S. Forest Service, State Park, and private campgrounds are within easy distance of the parkway. However, many operate on a seasonal basis. Food and lodging services are also available along and adjacent to the parkway. Most operate seasonally. To assist in planning your trip, consult the parkway map and major uphill climbs charts. Contact a Ranger before leaving a motor vehicle parked overnight on the parkway.