July 23 I am leaving for the smokies. I will be staying somewhere in the Roanoke area friday evening. I would like to ride 50-100 miles of the parkway. I dont want to take to time to ride from the Roanoke area all the way to the smokies on the parkway. What would be the best section to ride from Roanoke south. I am looking for the most scenic.

 

The Linn Cove Viaduct around Grandfather Mountain gets my vote. Similar to the Rockies, lots of huge rock formations and a bridge designed for the Alps that hugs the mountain in mid air. I'd say get on in Blowing Rock, ride south to Asheville through the tunnels, and that'll cover some of the highest points.

 

I think the most scenic part is going to be 50 miles north of Asheville and from Asheville to 50 miles south. I would pick up the Blue Ridge in Asheville and take it to the Smokey Mountain Expressway exit (Hwy 23/74). That is one of my favorite sections and that exit makes it easy to get back to major destinations.

 

Not sure where you coming from but Rt 80 north of Asheville or Rt 226 Little Switzerland-----all the way down to Cherokee is probably the best portion.
You get Mt Mitchell,Tunnels, and most of the "higher" elevations.

 

I agree with you on this road but also the area north around Sparta and Wilkesboro is fantastic as well. Many places to stop off for side trips with some great little looks back in history on the parkway. Also around mile post 248 there is Station Inn in Laurel Springs a lot of riders stop here for the live bands and food. Also there is Freebornes Eatery and Lodge as well.

 

Just did it from Meadows of Dan (MP 177) down to Little Switzerland. Beautiful area. Not much road construction on that section but there are some nasty bumps on some of the bridges.

 

It dont sound like I can go bad no matter where I get on. I was thinking about getting on around Ashville. But I would like to see grandfather mountain. Who knows maybe I will just ride the whole thing.

 

Like others have said ride from grandfather mountians area south as north of that area is much flatter and less scenic , more developed looking. The asheville area is busier so watch out but it gets you around town with out haveing to deal with this town screwed up road system. Enjoy the ride.

 

Why cut yourself short if you are already in Roanoke I'd do the whole parkway south. It is a nice easy ride and at 45 mph five hours of riding you will cover 225 miles easily.

 

Get on the Parkway in Roanoke and stay on it all the way to Cherokee, NC!! One of the best rides you will ever take....