Matt_Colie wrote:
I must admit that I have not looked this up, but I will put this caution out there right now for those that are planning BRP in the spring.
If you know you must divert off the BRP, plan carefully.
Our situation: In the spring of 2010 we were going north (east?) on the BRP in April. We did not get the word that the Parkway was closed from Pisgah east to the next crossing and we had planned to over night at Pisgah, but the campground that was supposed to be open was not as the crew had been out on the road trying to get it open.
So, we diverted north....
The alternative was to back-track about 30 miles.
The road to the north took us off the side of the mountain. We dropped 1500 feet in less than 2 miles of map and somewhat less than 4 miles of road. This was one winding steep road. Fortunately, we only encountered one vehicle that was up-bound and that was on a nearly straight section.
So, if you are going to travel the Blue Ridge Parkway and you know that there might be closures, have your plans ready.
I still think I could have checked out our taillights on some of those turns.
Matt
Sounds like you found HWY 80. no recommended for towing.
However. you are exactly right. Knowing which road to use off the BRP is critical, Especially if you are not use to twisty mountain roads. Riding the BRP is a cake walk compared to the road you have to use to get on it. I would always suggest avoiding 226, and especially 80. 226 has a 15 mph speed limit at the top, and 80 is bad all the way down.
We use 16, 321, 221 and 181 if we have to. They are twisty, but not so bad as the other 2
