Driving the Blue Ridge Parkway in a Class A: Clearances & Best Stops

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a bucket-list drive, and with a little planning it is very doable in a Class A. The key is knowing the road’s quirks before you go — clearances, grades, and where to stop — so the experience is all scenery and no stress.

Know before you go

The Parkway is a slow, scenic road by design — the speed limit is low and it winds. Plan for shorter daily distances than you would on the interstate, fuel up before you get on (there are no gas stations on the Parkway itself), and check the National Park Service’s road-status page, since sections close seasonally for weather and maintenance.

Tunnel clearances

The Parkway has a number of tunnels, several with reduced clearances, and they are the main thing tall coaches need to plan around. Many tunnels are on the North Carolina side. Know your coach’s exact height (including any roof equipment), note the posted clearances for the section you are driving, and route around anything marginal. A few minutes with a clearance list before you roll saves a lot of worry on the road.

Grades and driving tips

Expect long climbs and descents. Use lower gears on the downgrades to let the engine and transmission do the braking instead of riding your brakes, take curves slowly, and use pull-offs to let faster traffic pass. There is no shame in going slow — everyone on the Parkway is there for the view.

Best stops near Lake Lure and Asheville

From a Lake Lure base, the stretch of Parkway around Asheville is the most accessible and arguably the most rewarding, with a string of overlooks, picnic areas, and trailheads. You can sample the Parkway on a day trip and be back at your coach by evening — no need to relocate to drive it.

Where to stay

Rather than chase a different campground each night, base your coach somewhere comfortable and day-trip to the Parkway. Luxury Coach Retreat at Apple Valley Farm puts you within easy reach of the best sections while giving you full hookups, a waterfall, and a deck to come home to. Check availability and rates to plan your drive.