Blue Ridge and Smokies Road Trip

Suggested 7 days route through Virginia, North Carolina, Tennessee. Day assignments are illustrative; travel times, overnight stops, and seasonal access must be checked before departure.

Day-by-day route

1. Day 1: Shenandoah National Park — focus on the area and allow time for stops.
2. Day 2: Roanoke — focus on the area and allow time for stops.
3. Day 3: Blue Ridge Parkway overlooks — focus on the area and allow time for stops.
4. Day 4: Asheville — focus on the area and allow time for stops.
5. Day 5: Great Smoky Mountains National Park — focus on the area and allow time for stops.
6. Day 6: Gatlinburg — focus on the area and allow time for stops.
7. Day 7: Knoxville — focus on the area and allow time for stops.

Driving and route considerations

The Blue Ridge Parkway has seasonal closures; verify open segments and do not rely on mileage alone.

Confirm route legs in a live mapping service. Build in extra time for weather, meals, rest breaks, and attractions. For national parks, review official NPS alerts.

Accommodation strategy

Book in gateway towns close to the following day’s stops rather than automatically returning to the starting point. Compare parking fees and cancellation policies.

Food along the way

Seek local diners, farmers markets, and regional specialties; check opening days in smaller towns.