I have a week off from April 4-8 and wanted to head up to the Blue Ridge Parkway and over to the Dragon's Tail. I'm a Florida native so my concept of seasons is a little skewed. Is the weather in the beginning of April OK for riding up there, or do I need to wait a little longer?

 

it will still be cold up in the mountains the first of april. was on the brp the last week of june last year temp when we left asheville was 90 stopped and put on a long sleeve shirt about half way up. also could be alot of rain. or it could be nice and warm just be ready for anything that time of the year guess that is the point i am trying to make with my rambling

 

You may be better off going a little later in the year. We're going the 3rd week in May. Expect it will be a bit warmer and maybe if we're lucky a little drier too.

 

Yes as stated it will still be a little cold in April. I would shoot for the end of May for the best riding temps. Plus if you go up look into what is called the waterfall ride down Hwy 64 to Highland NC from Bryson City nice ride but for shure a day ride depending on where you are staying. But no matter where you ride around that area it is great! We have a cabin up there and go up a few times a year, our favorite time of year to ride is the end of September.

 

Wait. Here is a shot from 4/15/07, near Grandfather Mtn.

 

Aaaaaaallllrighty then. Looks as though my trip will be delayed a bit. I don't mind the cold (actually enjoy it) but not looking to put snowchains on my bike.

 

End of April is nice as it is not crowded. It is cold in the morning, 30's. Ride the High Country in the afternoon to give a chance for the Sun to dry out the curves. You can still have snow up on the Cherohala and the higher elevations of the BRP, usually not on the roads though. Just have to take the right riding gear, layers or heated and good gloves. A good time to have a lot of the roads to yourself, especially the Dragon which gets crowded later in the spring.