5 Motorcycle Trips on the Blue Ridge Parkway That Start in Boone, NC

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a dream for motorcyclists. Winding roads, breathtaking vistas, and small-town charm make for the perfect ride. Boone, NC, serves as a gateway to some of the most scenic routes in the Appalachian Mountains. Riders looking for both adventure and relaxation will find Mast Farm Inn an ideal retreat. This historic bed and breakfast in Valle Crucis has been welcoming guests since the 1800s, offering a cozy stay before setting off on unforgettable rides through the Blue Ridge Mountains.

The Mast Farm Inn is a historic cozy mountain getaway with lodging by a river, forest, and field for couples and families. Visit the onsite restaurant with food and drink specials, listen to local live music at the tavern, and pet the farm animals by the barn. We also host weddings and retreats. Stay with us or contact us for more information!

Planning the Best Route on the Blue Ridge Parkway

A ride along the Blue Ridge Parkway isn’t just about the destination—it’s about the slow, scenic beauty along the way. With a speed limit rarely exceeding 45 mph, the parkway encourages riders to take their time. Gas stations are few, so plan accordingly. Mountain weather shifts quickly, so packing layers is wise. After a full day on the road, a soft bed, a hearty breakfast, and an evening cocktail at Mast Farm Inn’s Valle Tavern make for the perfect way to unwind.

1. Boone to Grandfather Mountain Loop (Approx. 50 miles round-trip)

A ride that blends stunning scenery with a touch of thrill. Head south on the parkway toward Grandfather Mountain, stopping at the legendary Linn Cove Viaduct. This engineering marvel curves along the mountainside, offering views that stretch for miles. Once at Grandfather Mountain, walk across the Mile-High Swinging Bridge for a panoramic overlook. On the way back, swing through Banner Elk for a meal before settling into a farmhouse room or a historic cottage at Mast Farm Inn.

2. Boone to Blowing Rock & Price Lake (Approx. 40 miles round-trip)

A leisurely cruise south leads to Blowing Rock, a picturesque town with charming shops and inviting cafés. Stop at Moses H. Cone Memorial Park to stretch your legs on carriage trails winding through forests and meadows. Further along, Julian Price Lake offers a quiet moment by the water. As the sun sets, head back to Mast Farm Inn for a handcrafted cocktail at Valle Tavern and perhaps a visit to the River Birch Nordic Sauna for a deeply relaxing evening.

3. Boone to Mount Mitchell (Approx. 120 miles round-trip)

For those craving a longer ride, Mount Mitchell calls. As the highest peak east of the Mississippi, its summit offers views that seem to go on forever. The ride south includes sweeping mountain landscapes and Craggy Gardens, where rhododendrons bloom in bursts of pink and purple. After a rewarding ride, settle in at Mast Farm Inn with a treat from the bakery, or enjoy live music on the property as the cool mountain air settles in.

4. Boone to Linville Falls & Little Switzerland (Approx. 90 miles round-trip)

This ride offers a mix of winding roads, scenic overlooks, and a touch of history. Linville Falls, one of the parkway’s most famous waterfalls, is an essential stop. Short hikes lead to different vantage points, each more stunning than the last. Continue on to Little Switzerland, a tiny, tucked-away village with curvy roads perfect for motorcycle enthusiasts. After the ride, return to Mast Farm Inn, where you can stroll the 17-acre property, visit the farm animals, or relax in the lodge’s cozy sitting areas.

5. Boone to Roan Mountain (Approx. 80 miles round-trip)

Rolling through the highlands into Tennessee, this route takes riders to Roan Mountain, known for its sweeping grassy balds and breathtaking views. The roads are curvy, the air crisp, and the scenery nothing short of spectacular. At Carver’s Gap, take a moment to soak in the mountain vistas. Once back at Mast Farm Inn, indulge in a birthday or romantic enhancement, making the evening even more special.

Must-See Stops Along the Way

Some stops along the Blue Ridge Parkway deserve a longer pause. These locations offer history, beauty, and a perfect break from the road:

  • Linn Cove Viaduct – A feat of engineering with unforgettable mountain views.
  • Moses H. Cone Memorial Park – Walk the scenic carriage trails on this historic estate.
  • The Orchard at Altapass – Fresh cider, live music, and a taste of Appalachian culture.
  • The Blowing Rock – A legendary rock formation with dramatic views.
  • Roan Mountain State Park – Grassy balds, wildflowers, and stunning high-altitude scenery.

When it comes to lodging, historic charm beats the ordinary.

Unlike a standard hotel, Mast Farm Inn offers warmth, character, and a sense of place. Nestled in Valle Crucis, this bed and breakfast blends rustic elegance with modern comforts. Couples seeking a quiet retreat will find themselves enchanted by the farmhouse rooms, private cottages, and serene outdoor spaces. Breakfast is a slow, thoughtful affair, with farm-fresh ingredients and mountain flavors. Evenings invite relaxation, whether by the fire, on the porch, or in the Nordic sauna by the river.

A Stay Worth Remembering

After a day spent weaving through mountain roads, there’s no better place to return than Mast Farm Inn. The slow pace, the historic charm, the gentle hospitality—it all adds up to a ride worth remembering. Park the bike, kick off your boots, and let the mountains do the rest.

Book your stay today!

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