In 2021, we decided to drive the entire length of the blue ridge parkway from virginia to the smoky mountain national park in north carolina. for the most part, the speed limit is 45 mph, although there are stretches when it is lower. the parkway generally follows the top of the appalachian mountains with stunning scenery and many sites and trails to enjoy on the way. there are no retail or gas services on the parkway, although you can get off to obtain what you need. we planned our trip to coincide with the fall leaf season. Although we ended up being a little early, as we got farther south the colors became better. This was a great trip and we highly recommend it to anyone who wants a quiet, leisurely drive.