Appalachian RV Routes

Exploring the Appalachian Mountains by RV is a fantastic way to experience the scenic beauty, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural history of this iconic region. Here are some of the best RV routes through the Appalachian Mountains:

1. Blue Ridge Parkway

• Route: Starts in Afton, Virginia, and ends in Cherokee, North Carolina.
• Length: 469 miles.
• Highlights: Shenandoah National Park, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Linn Cove Viaduct, Mount Mitchell, and numerous overlooks and hiking trails.
• Camping: Plenty of campgrounds along the route, including Julian Price Campground and Linville Falls Campground.

2. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

• Route: From Gatlinburg, Tennessee to Cherokee, North Carolina via Newfound Gap Road (US-441).
• Length: Approximately 30 miles through the park.
• Highlights: Clingmans Dome, Cades Cove, Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, and various hiking trails.
• Camping: Cades Cove Campground, Elkmont Campground, and Smokemont Campground.

3. Skyline Drive

• Route: Through Shenandoah National Park in Virginia.
• Length: 105 miles.
• Highlights: Big Meadows, Mary's Rock Tunnel, and numerous scenic overlooks.
• Camping: Big Meadows Campground, Lewis Mountain Campground, and Loft Mountain Campground.

4. Cherohala Skyway

• Route: From Tellico Plains, Tennessee to Robbinsville, North Carolina.
• Length: 43 miles.
• Highlights: Santeetlah Overlook, Bald River Falls, and various hiking opportunities.
• Camping: Indian Boundary Campground, Santeetlah Lake Recreation Area.

5. Appalachian Scenic Byway

• Route: From Lineville to Heflin in Alabama.
• Length: 80 miles.
• Highlights: Cheaha State Park (the highest point in Alabama), Talladega National Forest, and various scenic overlooks.
• Camping: Cheaha State Park Campground, Talladega National Forest campgrounds.

6. Natchez Trace Parkway

• Route: From Nashville, Tennessee to Natchez, Mississippi (though it extends beyond the Appalachian region).
• Length: 444 miles.
• Highlights: Meriwether Lewis Monument, Jackson Falls, and historic sites along the route.
• Camping: Jeff Busby Campground, Meriwether Lewis Campground, and Natchez Trace RV Park.

7. Kancamagus Highway (NH 112)

• Route: From Lincoln to Conway in New Hampshire.
• Length: 34.5 miles.
• Highlights: White Mountain National Forest, Sabbaday Falls, and numerous scenic viewpoints.
• Camping: Covered Bridge Campground, Jigger Johnson Campground, and Hancock Campground.

8. Adirondack Northway (I-87)

• Route: From Albany to Plattsburgh in New York.
• Length: Approximately 175 miles.
• Highlights: Lake George, Adirondack Park, and various hiking and outdoor activities.
• Camping: Lake George RV Park, North Pole Resorts, and Ausable Point Campground.

9. Route 7 Through Vermont

• Route: From Bennington to Burlington in Vermont.
• Length: Approximately 200 miles.
• Highlights: Green Mountain National Forest, Ben & Jerry's Factory, and Lake Champlain.
• Camping: Green Mountain National Forest campgrounds, Lake Champagne Campground, and North Beach Campground.

10. Highlands Scenic Highway (WV 150)

• Route: From Richwood to US 219 in West Virginia.
• Length: 43 miles.
• Highlights: Cranberry Glades Botanical Area, Falls of Hills Creek, and Scenic Overlooks.
• Camping: Summit Lake Campground, Big Rock Campground, and Tea Creek Campground.

Tips for RVing in the Appalachians

• Check Road Conditions: Some roads may be narrow, winding, or have steep grades.
• Plan for Elevation Changes: Be prepared for varying altitudes and the impact on vehicle performance.
• Book Campgrounds in Advance: Popular campgrounds can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
• Pack for All Weather: Weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, so be prepared for changes.
• Explore Local Attractions: Many small towns and attractions along these routes offer unique cultural and historical experiences.

Enjoy your adventure through the Appalachian Mountains, where breathtaking scenery and diverse natural beauty await at every turn!