Low 70s in the higher elevations right now.
There are no showers in the brp campgrounds except for one near the southern end.
If you want more curves and faster speeds some of the roads that parallel the parkway can be a real challenge. 55 mph limit on roads that would test anyones skill to maintain through the twists and turns.
How far north are you going? In NC, most roads are 55 mph when in between towns. They slow you down for the town, and when you leave they say "resume safe speed".
221 from Grandfather mountain to Blowing Rock, NC for one.
194 from Banner Elk to Valle Crusts is another. Make sure you stop in at the Mast General Store.
Not 55 mph, but 226a up to Little Switzerland is a must. Take 226 down and go up 226a.
80 (buck creek rd) down to and around Lake Tahoma might be nice. Haven't been on that one in many years though.
215 to 276 to 64 or just as a way to bypass part of the parkway.
don't miss out on going up Mount Mitchell State park.
i've probably already shared to much, and probably can't share any of the secret roads on the Internet. Keep in mind that our friendly GPS devices don't really avoid dirt roads. Seen a few Harley riders have to turn around when the nice shortcut turns to dirt. Even if you have it on fastest route, you may encounter dirt. The nice thing about faster route in the mountains is that it will find the 55 mph back roads that maje you go WTF?
Have a great time.
Tks for the info. Some of those sound familiar (like Little Switzerland), as in might already be planned in our route being done by one of the other guys.
Taking the Amtrak Auto Train from Sanford, FL to Lorton, VA ... riding W to the N start of Skyline Drive, and riding that and the entire BRP.
Good luck trying to maintain speed on 194 from Banner Elk to Valle Crucis. Was in that neck of the woods yesterday and weather was a little cool with rain. +1 on the Mast General Store, great candy selection. If in Boone, check out Peppers for some really good sandwiches or Woodlands BBQ in Blowing Rock. Linville Falls on the parkway is a must see also. You will also be close to the "Snake" (rt.421) in Tennessee. Less crowded than the "Dragon" and more funner IMO. Have fun.
I will second Woodlands BBQ. Speed on 194 is not limited by traffic, skill and concentration will tell you whether the speed limit can be maintained. My wife thought the speed limit should be 30.
Wow ... my man ... what does this say for your riding skills??!
fify.........It says a lot about taking my wife along and I'm not riding her favorite bike.
I don't think is says anything about my riding skills. I says a lot about taking your wife along and you are not riding her favorite bike.