Does The Blue Ridge Parkway Close During Winter?
Common Question:
We are planing a trip from New York to Florida in early December. We are curious to know what facilities, if any will be open during this time of year? We are an older couple and plan on staying in motels, maybe do a little hiking, check out a musuem or two and maybe do some shopping.
Answer:
Most Parkway facilities are closed in the winter, although the road itself is open as long as snow or ice do not create dangerous driving conditions. The park information line, (828) 298 0398, is the most up-to-date source for road closures by section and access to Parkway weather reports. Year round facilities include the Peaks of Otter Lodge north of Roanoke, VA, the North Carolina Minerals Museum near Spruce Pine, and in Asheville, NC the Folk Art Center and the Destination Center.
Many of the towns and communities located along the parkway offer shopping, meals, and lodging year round.
