Exploring the Appalachian Mountains

Exploring the Appalachian Mountains via RV offers breathtaking scenery, charming towns, and outdoor adventures. Here are some of the best RV routes to consider:

1. Blue Ridge Parkway: Known as "America's Favorite Drive," the Blue Ridge Parkway offers stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains. Stretching 469 miles from Virginia to North Carolina, this scenic drive features numerous overlooks, hiking trails, and attractions like the Folk Art Center and Mount Mitchell State Park.
2. Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Located along the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park boasts diverse wildlife, cascading waterfalls, and old-growth forests. RV-friendly campgrounds like Elkmont and Cades Cove offer a convenient base for exploring the park's hiking trails and scenic drives.
3. Shenandoah National Park: Situated in Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah National Park is renowned for its Skyline Drive. This 105-mile road winds through the park, offering panoramic views of the Shenandoah Valley and access to hiking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife viewing areas.
4. Cherohala Skyway: Connecting Tennessee and North Carolina, the Cherohala Skyway is a 43-mile scenic byway that traverses the Cherokee and Nantahala National Forests. This route offers sweeping mountain views, with numerous overlooks and recreational opportunities along the way.
5. New River Gorge: Located in West Virginia, the New River Gorge offers rugged beauty and outdoor adventures. RVers can explore scenic drives like the Fayette Station Road and visit attractions such as the New River Gorge Bridge and Thurmond Ghost Town.
6. The Highlands Scenic Highway: This 43-mile byway in West Virginia's Monongahela National Forest offers stunning views of the Allegheny Highlands. Highlights include Cranberry Glades Botanical Area, Highland Scenic Trail, and numerous hiking opportunities.
7. The Pennsylvania Wilds: Spanning 2 million acres of forests, mountains, and rivers, the Pennsylvania Wilds offer RVers a diverse array of landscapes to explore. Highlights include the Kinzua Bridge State Park, Allegheny National Forest, and scenic drives like Route 6 and Route 120.

When planning your RV trip through the Appalachian Mountains, be sure to check for road closures, campground availability, and any restrictions for RVs on certain roads. Additionally, consider the time of year and weather conditions, as some routes may be closed during the winter months. With careful planning, you can enjoy a memorable journey through the scenic beauty of the Appalachian Mountains.