Travel Regulations

Regarding COVID-19

Masking requirements will vary along the parkway based on local conditions. In areas the CDC identifies as high COVID-19 community level transmission, masks are required for everyone in all NPS buildings regardless of vaccination status. In most low and medium COVID-19 community level transmission areas, masks are optional, but visitors should follow signs and instructions from park staff and volunteers. Masks are still required on all forms of enclosed public transportation. Visitors are always welcome to wear a mask if it makes them more comfortable. Current masking requirements are available on the NPS website.

Driving and Parking

• Drive Carefully. The maximum speed limit is 45 miles per hour. Report any accident to a Park Ranger. Commercial vehicles are not permitted on the Parkway.
• Roadside Parking. Parking is limited to designated parking lots or overlooks. Visitors should avoid parking on road shoulders as this damages park resources such as road edges and vegetation.
• Trails. Bicycles and motorized vehicles are not permitted on Parkway trails.
• Helmets are required for motorcycle operators and passengers. In North Carolina, the headlight must be on anytime a motorcycle is in motion.

Enjoying the Water

• No swimming in Parkway waters: lakes, ponds, and rivers. They are for fishing and scenic beauty only. Swimming facilities are available in nearby U.S. Forest Service recreation areas, state parks, and mountain resorts.
• Fishing is permitted with state fishing license. The Parkway traverses both VA and NC so plan accordingly. More information about fishing is available here.
• Boats without motor or sail are permitted on Price Lake.

Fires and Firewood

• Prevent Wildfires. Fires, including charcoal grills, are permitted in campgrounds and picnic areas only.
• Unapproved firewood is not permitted. To protect the Parkway from invasive species, all firewood should be purchased near the campground and be certified as heat-treated to kill insect or other pests.

Natural and Historic Resources

• Deposit all litter in the trash cans provided at trail heads, parking overlooks, and picnic areas.
• Metal detectors are prohibited.
• Natural resources are protected by Federal law. Do not disturb animal and plant life in any way. Hunting, trapping and possession of any contraband substances are prohibited. Do not interfere with animals by feeding, touching, or frightening them. Do not cut, deface, or damage trees. Leave wildflowers and other vegetation in their natural condition for others to enjoy.
• Historic resources are protected by Federal law. Do not damage, deface, or remove any of these structures, furnishings or exhibits.

Alcoholic Beverages

• Alcoholic Beverages are permitted in campgrounds by registered campers and in picnic areas until 9 pm.
• Alcoholic beverages are prohibited at wedding/ elopement ceremonies.
• Possession of open containers of alcoholic beverages in motor vehicles is prohibited.

Photography and Special Events

• No drones permitted. Drones may not launched, retrieved or operated from NPS property.
• A permit is required for professional photography on the Parkway.
• A permit is required for assembling in groups larger than 21 people.

Public Access

• To prevent vandalism and other illegal activity, certain public areas of the Parkway are closed during hours of darkness. These areas and other restrictions can be found on the NPS BLRI site here.

Hunting & Firearms

• Hunting is prohibited on all Parkway lands. Hunters may access legal public and private game lands from the Parkway, but must do so by parking in designated parking areas/pullouts and walking in. Hunters are allowed to retrieve hunting dogs.
• Game legally taken on land adjacent to the Parkway may be transported across certain Parkway lands after contacting the Blue Ridge Parkway Communications Center at 828-298-2491 for approval.
• NPS BLRI hunting restrictions can be found here.
• Legally possessed firearms (concealed and open carry) are allowable on Parkway lands as long as all local, state and federal firearms laws are complied with. Federal law prohibits the possession of a firearm or other dangerous weapon in NPS facilities; these facilities are posted with appropriate notices at public entrances.
• Discharging a firearm on Parkway land is prohibited.

Safety Tips for Enjoying the Parkway

• The Parkway was designed for leisurely motoring. Take your time and discover the grandeur of this special place.
• Hiking shoes or boots are recommended. Steep and rocky areas and slippery stream crossings require extra attention and careful footing. Even for trails marked “easy,” it is advisable to wear flat or rubber-soled shoes for comfort and good traction. Wearing sandals, flip-flops or high heels can result in accidents.
• Sudden changes in weather are common in these mountains. Even in mild seasons, rapid dips in temperature and unexpected thunderstorms frequently occur. At higher elevations, the wind and temperature can carry a surprising chill. Be prepared for weather changes by bringing layers of suitable clothing.
• Stay on established trails. For your safety and the protection of the resources, use the trails provided. Shortcutting at switchbacks causes soil erosion, disfigures the trail, and makes it difficult for other hikers to find their way. Take advantage of log walkways, steps, or other trail construction – these minimize human impact on the natural environment.
• Do not drink the water in streams or springs. Bacterial diseases can be contracted by drinking untreated “wild” waters.
• Lock valuables in the trunk of your car or take them with you.
• Use extra vigilance when driving in fog and rain. Slow down and turn on your headlights. A little caution will help assure that inclement weather only dampens picnics and temporarily impairs the scenic views.
• Some areas of the Parkway are outside mobile and WiFi reception. Download the free Blue Ridge Parkway – Travel Planner App for constant access to maps and information even when you’ve traveled outside cell range.
• If in an accident, try to prevent others from becoming involved by using reflective warning devices or flares, or by positioning someone beside the road to flag oncoming vehicles. Please report uncontrolled fires, safety hazards, accidents and emergencies by calling 911.