Explore the Blue Ridge Parkway in Roanoke with a Self-Guided Audio Tour
See more
Discover the scenic beauty of the northern section of the Blue Ridge Parkway with our self-guided audio tour. Explore stunning overlooks, hike trails suitable for all levels, and visit historic sites along the way. Whether you're seeking peaceful lakes, breathtaking mountain views, or a glimpse into Virginia's rich history, this tour has something for everyone.
Highlights include serene spots like Peaks of Otter, challenging hikes to Humpback Rocks, and informative stops at visitor centers that showcase the area's natural and cultural heritage. Download the Shaka Guide app to enjoy hours of narration, travel tips, and music, all offline and customizable to your schedule.
Take your time exploring at your own pace. You can skip stops, linger longer at favorites, and enjoy the freedom to craft your perfect day on the Blue Ridge Parkway. This private tour is designed to make your adventure memorable and stress-free.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Blue Ridge Parkway Virginia Self-Guided Audio Tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore all the highlights at your own pace.
What do I need to access the tour?
You just need to download the Shaka Guide app and your purchased tour. The audio and maps work offline, so no Wi-Fi or data is required during your trip.
Is this tour suitable for all ages and fitness levels?
Absolutely. The tour is accessible for all physical fitness levels and is suitable for travelers from 0 to 120 years old.
Can I start the tour at any time?
Yes, the tour start is customizable. You can download it and begin whenever it fits your schedule, making it flexible for your plans.
What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes hours of offline narration, an offline map with GPS, activity and restaurant recommendations, turn-by-turn directions, and the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Are meals or transportation included?
No, meals, refreshments, and private transportation are not included. You’re responsible for your own food and travel arrangements.
Free cancellation
Cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled start for a full refund.
Reserve now
Check a date here, then finish booking with our partner. Payment options are confirmed at checkout.
Duration 8 hours – 9 hours
Check availability to see start times.
Guided experience
English
Key facts
What's included
Included
- Tours NEVER expire
- Offline Audio Guided Tour: Hours of narration, stories, travel tips, and music
- Offline map with GPS (no Wi-Fi or data needed)
- Flexible start date: download and begin when you want
- Tour highlights with activity and restaurant suggestions
- Turn-by-turn GPS directions
- Explore at your own pace: skip stops or spend more time at favorites
- Automatic audio narration as you drive
Not included
- Meals and refreshments
- Private transportation
Itinerary
-
Stop 1
Begin at a state-run park with a visitor center, arts and crafts gift shop, and trails for all levels. Enjoy a hike, zipline, obstacle course, or trampoline park. Expect to spend around 30 minutes here.
-
Stop 2
First overlook offering views of distant mountains and a working quarry. Spend about 5 minutes taking in the scenery.
-
Stop 3
View the Great Valley, which stretches from New York to Alabama. Historically used by Native Americans and settlers, this overlook provides a stunning vista. About 5 minutes.
-
Stop 4
Another mountain perspective, with the small town of Montvale visible in the distance. Spend around 5 minutes here.
-
Stop 5
A 180-degree view featuring a lone pine tree. Perfect for photos, this stop lasts about 5 minutes.
-
Stop 6
View Porter’s Mountain profile and the Goose Creek Valley over 2000 feet below. Spend about 5 minutes here.
-
Stop 7
Visit the popular visitor center with a natural history museum, ranger desk, general store, gift shop, and restrooms. Also, explore the Elk Run trail or the more challenging Harkening Hill trail. Approximate time: 45 minutes.
-
Stop 8
Stay at the lodge near the visitor center, offering dining and accommodations. Enjoy views of Peaks of Otter and a walk around a paved, ADA-compliant lake. About 30 minutes.
-
Stop 9
Hike down to Apple Orchard Falls for scenic views. The waterfall is small but picturesque; the return climb is challenging. About 1 hour.
-
Stop 10
Highest elevation on the Parkway in Virginia at 3950 feet. Enjoy a quick 5-minute stop for the view.
-
Stop 11
Thunder Ridge Overlook offers sweeping views of Arnold Valley and access to the Appalachian Trail. Spend about 10 minutes here.
-
Stop 12
Visit a smaller, lower-elevation visitor center with natural history exhibits and ranger assistance. Approximate time: 30 minutes.
-
Stop 13
Loop trail around Otter Lake, featuring a stone bridge, waterfall, and fishing pier. About 45 minutes.
-
Stop 14
Stretch your legs at Indian Gap Rocks, with rock formations just under a mile out and back. About 10 minutes.
-
Stop 15
Stop in Buena Vista for gas, food, and local restaurants. Approximate time: 45 minutes.
-
Stop 16
Chimney Rock Mountain overlook features trees in the middle and panoramic views. About 5 minutes.
-
Stop 17
Irish Creek Valley Overlook offers miles of scenic views, named for early Scotch-Irish settlers. About 5 minutes.
-
Stop 18
Walk along re-created railroad tracks or to Wigwam Falls, one of the Parkway’s most photographed waterfalls. About 20 minutes.
-
Stop 19
A quick stop at Whetstone Ridge for restroom needs. No other amenities. About 5 minutes.
-
Stop 20
Another short trail leading to a hilltop view of the mountains. About 10 minutes.
-
Stop 21
Observe the trick of the light at White Rock, where the sun hits the rocks 20 minutes before sunset in summer. About 5 minutes.
-
Stop 22
Sherando Lake offers a beach, fishing, water sports, and trails. Parking costs $8. Spend about an hour enjoying outdoor activities.
-
Stop 23
Raven’s Roost provides panoramic valley and mountain views, with opportunities to see ravens. About 5 minutes.
-
Stop 24
Visit the last visitor center with exhibits, trail access, and a re-created settler’s farmstead. Optional hike to Humpback Rocks with 360-degree views. About 20 minutes.
-
Stop 25
End your tour at Afton Overlook for a final view of the Blue Ridge Mountains, especially beautiful at sunset. About 5 minutes.
Meeting point & pickup
Meet at the southern end of Mill Mountain Parkway, south of Roanoke, VA.
Tour starts at Blue Ridge Parkway south of Roanoke, VA, at the southern end of Mill Mountain Parkway. The tour can also be started from the opposite end if preferred.
Open in Google MapsCancellation & confirmation
Free cancellation
Cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled start for a full refund.
- 100% refund if canceled at least 1 day in advance
- No refund if canceled within 24 hours of the start
Instant confirmation
Your booking is confirmed immediately after checkout.
From $12.99 per person
- Free cancellation
- Secure checkout with our booking partner
