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Blue Ridge Parkway segment closing Monday for repaving

By Lightning Reports, Published: September 14, 2024

As work progresses on a major paving project between milepost 229.6 and 305.1, park visitors can expect a full closure from milepost 261 (NC 16) to Milepost 269.8 (Phillips Gap) beginning Monday.
The primary detour route in the area remains unchanged, and access to Doughton Park, including the picnic area, campground and The Bluffs Restaurant, is available via NC 18. Visitors should be aware of the following changes while work is underway in this area:
  • A full closure of the mainline motor road between milepost 261 to milepost 269.8 will begin Monday, Sept. 16. Within the active closure area, all activity is prohibited for cars, bicycles and hikers to ensure the safety of Parkway visitors and staff.
  • A signed detour will direct travelers around the full closure at milepost 261 to 269.8 via routes NC 16 and US 221. Access to the Parkway at the Northwest Trading Post, milepost 258.7, will be available from NC 16 and Trading post Road at Glendale Springs, NC
  • The Mountains to Sea trail will remain open during the closure period. As always, hikers should exercise caution when crossing the motor road.
  • Visitors are reminded that sporadic closures may occur at overlooks throughout the construction project.
  • Later this fall, construction will migrate south at which time there will be a full closure to all activity from milepost 261 – 276.5. Specific dates will be announced prior to the closure.
This work is part of a $123.5 million Great American Outdoors Act investment along 75 miles of the Parkway addressing the rehabilitation of paving, drainage structures, curbs, walks, shoulders, guardrails, overlooks, and signage in this section of the historic motor route. This paving and infrastructure repair project is expected to continue until Spring 2026.