NC has one of the most feared (but beautiful) routes in the US, new report shows
North Carolina has one of the largest highway systems in the U.S. with nearly 80,000 miles of roadway.
According to a new survey, it’s also home to most of the most feared highways in the country.
Gunther Mitsubishi recently released a report of the riskiest road trips based on a questionnaire of 3,000 regular road trippers who shared which routes in each state that they fear breaking down on the most.
The Blue Ridge Parkway, in North Carolina, ranked 12th on the list.
The Parkway is the longest road planned as a single unit in the country, according to the National Park Service.
Stretching 469 miles through the region, it connects Great Smoky Mountains National Park with Shenandoah National Park with some of the oldest mountain ranges in the world. Open to guests riding in personal vehicles, motorcycles, tour buses and bicycles, the Parkway is a popular spot for those taking a scenic drive or visiting to hike, camp and more.
“The Blue Ridge Parkway, often called ‘America’s Favorite Drive’ is beautiful, but requires extra care while driving,” the NPS website says. “Some of the wonderful things to observe along the way include the mountains, trees, wildflowers, the graceful curves... and the speed limit, which is strictly enforced for your safety.”
According to NPS, law enforcement rangers investigate about 200 accidents each year with half of those causing serious injuries.
Park officials say traffic is typically heaviest in June, July, August and October, especially on weekends and holidays so plan on needing extra time during the busy season or, if possible, travel during the weekdays.
Here are driving safety tips shared from NPS for those visiting the Blue Ridge Parkway:
‘Enjoy the view, but watch the road!’
Steep grades: In some places, the parkway has steeper grades than normally found on highways so be mindful of your speed.
Road Shoulders: The parkway’s road shoulders are narrow in places so that the meadows or forest edges grow close to the pavement so keep close attention behind the wheel.
Built-in Distractions: The parkway is home to wildlife, wildflowers and extraordinary views, so be careful enjoying the views when driving.
Limited Sight Distances: The parkway was designed with gentle curves and little straight sections so be cautious taking turns.
Speed Limit Changes: According to NPS, the parkway speed limit is mostly 45 mph, but occasionally it will drop to 25 mph or 35 mph.
Decreasing Radius Curves: Watch out for curves, especially on motorcycles.
Recreational Vehicles: Travelers often visit the Blue Ridge Parkway with RVs, but park officials warn that going up or down steep grades can be slow. Pull over often to let faster moving traffic get by and check the heights of the parkway’s twenty-six tunnels.
