Blue Ridge Parkway South Self-Guided Audio Tour from Asheville
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Set out on a memorable drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway from Asheville to Cherokee with this self-guided audio tour. As you cruise through the scenic mountains, your audio guide will share fascinating stories about the area's history, culture, and natural beauty.
This experience isn’t just about the drive. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in lush forests, explore diverse ecosystems, and enjoy breathtaking views from scenic overlooks. Plus, if you’re up for some outdoor fun, there are plenty of hikes and activities suitable for all levels.
Book now and let this Blue Ridge Parkway self-guided driving tour be your personal guide through the heart of the Appalachian Mountains. Download the app beforehand to access your tour offline and explore at your own pace.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the tour take?
The tour lasts approximately 11 to 13 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the sights and stops along the way.
In what language is the tour available?
The audio tour is available in English.
Can I explore with a group?
Yes, the tour is private and suitable for groups of up to 7 people.
Is the tour accessible for all ages and mobility levels?
Absolutely. The tour is suitable for travelers aged 0 to 120, and it’s wheelchair accessible. Infants and small children can ride comfortably in a pram or stroller.
What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes offline maps, turn-by-turn GPS directions, hours of audio narration with stories, travel tips, and music. Tours never expire, so you can explore at your own pace.
Are there any extra costs I should be aware of?
The tour does not include private transportation, parking fees, or meals and refreshments.
Free cancellation
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled departure.
Reserve now
Check a date here, then finish booking with our partner. Payment options are confirmed at checkout.
Duration 11 hours – 13 hours
Check availability to see start times.
Guided experience
English
Key facts
What's included
Included
- Tours never expire
- Freedom to explore at your own pace
- Offline map (no Wi-Fi or data needed)
- Turn-by-turn GPS directions
- Hours of audio narration with stories, travel tips, and music
Not included
- Private transportation
- Parking fees
- Meals and refreshments
Itinerary
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Stop 1
This elegant arboretum spans 400 acres, featuring cultivated gardens, a Bonsai display, and hiking trails through forests and mountains. There's a small cafe perfect for a quick bite or beverage. Ideal for easy or accessible walks.
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Stop 2
The first overlook after ascending into the mountains from Asheville, offering a quick 5-minute view. Many more overlooks await further along the drive.
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Stop 3
A ridgeline overlook providing scenic views in both directions, perfect for a quick 5-minute stop.
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Stop 4
Hike to the summit of Mt. Pisgah, about 4.5 miles round-trip. The moderate to strenuous trail rewards hikers with panoramic mountain views, weather permitting.
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Stop 5
A brief stop for food and rest at the restaurant or snack shop, with a lookout deck and rocking chairs offering stunning mountain vistas.
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Stop 6
A moderate uphill hike along an old gravel road leading to an old steel lookout tower, with outstanding views from the top. About 1.5 miles round-trip.
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Stop 7
Visit the site of an old Vanderbilt forestry school, with a grove of trees still thriving. Short 5-minute stop.
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Stop 8
Explore a small museum dedicated to forestry education, featuring interactive exhibits and easy paved trails. About 1 hour.
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Stop 9
Enjoy a waterfall that doubles as a natural waterslide—bring your swimsuit! Lifeguards are on duty during summer.
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Stop 10
See a 60-foot waterfall visible from the road—no hike needed. A quick 15-minute stop.
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Stop 11
Facilities with picnic tables and restrooms, ideal for a break or to turn around before visiting Looking Glass Falls.
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Stop 12
A mile-round-trip trail leading to Skinny Dip Falls, where visitors can dip in the pool or enjoy the view of Looking Glass Rock. About 45 minutes.
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Stop 13
Visit Graveyard Fields, known for its waterfalls and history of natural disasters. Easy to moderate hikes of 1.5 miles and an additional mile for the second falls.
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Stop 14
A 1.5-mile round-trip hike to a mountain overlook offering 360-degree views—great for clear weather days.
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Stop 15
Hike to the summit of an impressive cliff, where you can see four states. The steep, under-a-mile trail takes about 45 minutes.
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Stop 16
The best overlook on the tour, offering unobstructed views of miles of Blue Ridge Mountains.
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Stop 17
Visit the Richland Balsam Trail, a 1.5-mile loop through the woods, perfect for a short walk and scenic forest views.
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Stop 18
The highest point on the Parkway at over 6,053 feet. A quick 5-minute stop with a sign marking the elevation.
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Stop 19
A series of overlooks showcasing layered mountain ranges, with a brief 5-minute stop at each.
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Stop 20
A popular photo spot featuring a large boulder near the overlook entrance.
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Stop 21
One of the best overlooks with views from over 6,000 feet, plus picnic tables and a visitor center. About 45 minutes to enjoy.
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Stop 22
Another scenic overlook of mountains and valleys, perfect for a quick stop.
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Stop 23
Soco Falls is a double waterfall just a mile off the Parkway, visible from the parking lot or accessible via a short scramble for the best view at the base. About 20 minutes.
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Stop 24
A lower elevation overlook offering lovely views and potential for fall colors. Brief 5-minute stop.
Meeting point & pickup
Meet at the starting point near Asheville, off US-25 near the Biltmore. You can also start the tour from Cherokee, NC, in the opposite direction.
Blue Ridge Parkway near Asheville, just off US-25 near the Biltmore. You can also take the tour in the opposite direction starting in Cherokee, NC.
Open in Google MapsCancellation & confirmation
Free cancellation
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled departure.
- 100% refund if canceled at least 1 day in advance
- No refund if canceled within 24 hours of departure
Instant confirmation
Your booking is confirmed immediately after checkout.
From $12.99 per person
- Free cancellation
- Secure checkout with our booking partner
