Blue Ridge Parkway in autumn
The parkway runs from Shenandoah to the Great Smoky Mountains with a 45 mph limit and no commercial traffic. Peak color usually moves south from early to late October.
Where to stay
Roanoke, Blowing Rock and Asheville make good bases. Lodges on the parkway book out months ahead for October.
Practical
Sections close for repairs and weather; check the NPS road status map each morning. Fuel is off-parkway only.