First Annual Blue Ridge Parkway (BRP) run Oct 2012?

[IwantmyMMnow!]

So, while I was sitting at work last night, with absolutely nothing to do (or reason to be there to begin with), I began seriously thinking about introducing a BRP run into the long list of yearly events everyone seems to plan on attending (Marauderville, Louisville, Carlisle). I had come up with an example itinerary and everything and at 2am was going to post it up...but alas, the website was down.

To help explain why this would be something great to do, I can't...there's no way to describe how beautiful the BRP is in the fall--it's one of those things that you just have to see for yourself. I'm not suggesting driving the entire length of the Parkway (almost 500 miles) or this event being several days long. Basically, a day/day and half event covering approx 50-100 miles. I will be moving to Asheville at the end of this year, so I can do plenty of researching, etc in prep for next Oct.

There are several obsticles to think about. I know this event will have a limited draw...I would guess roughly one-third of all MM.net members could feasibly attend, with a portion of that number actually going. There aren't many major cities along the BRP that can be used as 'assembly points' or 'home base'. (Asheville, Roanoke, and Lynchburg are closest cities to BRP)

The positives: The BRP is nearly 500 miles long; doing 50-100 mile segments each year will allow for venue change for at least 5 years before repeating itself. The BRP run will occur approx 6 weeks after Marauderville and can help curb 'withdrawals' most people have after such a huge event. And last, but definitely not least, it's a chance for MM owners to get together!

So, with all of that said, I would like to see how much interest there is in having such an event. I've attached an example itinerary...just something to help give everyone an idea of what can be done. Would also like some feedback on it...too many things? Not enough? Things I forgot to consider?

Just trying to see if there's interest in adding a new venue of 'places to go/things to see', and help chase away those Marauderville blues...and blacks, and silvers, and DTRs...

Would it be possible to make this thread a sticky to help gauge interest?

[Bigdogjim]

Yes that might be something to look into the BRP is really a gem of parkway:up:

For Northeast marauders it's not far. (IHMO)

[CBT]

At the risk of sounding DTR-ish:P, and also someone saying that's what she said:D, where does it start and where does it end?
Specifically.

[Jimimac43]

It is a destination for me and my motorcycle buds almost every year, For us flatlanders its a welcome drive . Beautiful overlooks switch-backs and roundy rounds. I can see a line of Marauders snaking thru the parkway.

[IwantmyMMnow!]

At the risk of sounding DTR-ish:P, and also someone saying that's what she said:D, where does it start and where does it end?
Specifically.

The north end (Mile Post 0) is near Staunton, VA, and the south end (Mile Post 468, I think) is on the Cherokee Indian Reservation, about an hour west of Asheville. My example itinerary covers MP 315-380 (roughly).

When I was a kid, my family would take a trip on the BRP every summer. We always stayed at the Switzerland Inn. Back then (30+ years ago), some of the Parkway was concrete and I believe there was actually a 'gap' (no Parkway) just north of Linville Falls, until the Linn Cove viaduct was constructed. Check out link for info on the BRP and specifically the Linn Cove viaduct: http://highcountryparkway.com/high-country-parkway-information/the-parkway-history/linn-cove-viaduct-history

[SC Cheesehead]

Us Carolina guys did a run up through the mountains a few years back, including a stretch on the BRP, beautiful scenery in the fall, would love to do it again.

[HammerDown]

The north end (Mile Post 0) is near Staunton, VA, and the south end (Mile Post 468, I think) is on the Cherokee Indian Reservation, about an hour west of Asheville. My example itinerary covers MP 315-380 (roughly).

When I was a kid, my family would take a trip on the BRP every summer. We always stayed at the Switzerland Inn. Back then (30+ years ago), some of the Parkway was concrete and I believe there was actually a 'gap' (no Parkway) just north of Linville Falls, until the Linn Cove viaduct was constructed. Check out link for info on the BRP and specifically the Linn Cove viaduct: http://highcountryparkway.com/high-country-parkway-information/the-parkway-history/linn-cove-viaduct-history


Wow, it sounds like a great "long weekend" trip, but that is 8 hours or so from us (we are north of Baltimore). We'd need to take off an extra day or so for traveling to Asheville; we don't have much vaca time:(; BUT, if you ever do the north end--now that is about 2-1/2 hours from us--we could do that in a 3-day weekend!!!

[dakslim]

So, while I was sitting at work last night, with absolutely nothing to do (or reason to be there to begin with), I began seriously thinking about introducing a BRP run into the long list of yearly events everyone seems to plan on attending (Marauderville, Louisville, Carlisle). I had come up with an example itinerary and everything and at 2am was going to post it up...but alas, the website was down.

To help explain why this would be something great to do, I can't...there's no way to describe how beautiful the BRP is in the fall--it's one of those things that you just have to see for yourself. I'm not suggesting driving the entire length of the Parkway (almost 500 miles) or this event being several days long. Basically, a day/day and half event covering approx 50-100 miles. I will be moving to Asheville at the end of this year, so I can do plenty of researching, etc in prep for next Oct.

There are several obsticles to think about. I know this event will have a limited draw...I would guess roughly one-third of all MM.net members could feasibly attend, with a portion of that number actually going. There aren't many major cities along the BRP that can be used as 'assembly points' or 'home base'. (Asheville, Roanoke, and Lynchburg are closest cities to BRP)

The positives: The BRP is nearly 500 miles long; doing 50-100 mile segments each year will allow for venue change for at least 5 years before repeating itself. The BRP run will occur approx 6 weeks after Marauderville and can help curb 'withdrawals' most people have after such a huge event. And last, but definitely not least, it's a chance for MM owners to get together!

So, with all of that said, I would like to see how much interest there is in having such an event. I've attached an example itinerary...just something to help give everyone an idea of what can be done. Would also like some feedback on it...too many things? Not enough? Things I forgot to consider?

Just trying to see if there's interest in adding a new venue of 'places to go/things to see', and help chase away those Marauderville blues...and blacks, and silvers, and DTRs...

Would it be possible to make this thread a sticky to help gauge interest?

I would be in for that as the BRP is a beautiful ride. Just don't schedule it for a weekend...ask me how I know.:eek:

[Bigdogjim]

I would be in for that as the BRP is a beautiful ride. Just don't schedule it for a weekend...ask me how I know.:eek:

Ok? So tell us how you know?

[slickster]

Wow I'm from lynchburg. I use to ride along with my fam alot on the brp alot very nice. In roanoake there's star mountain where you get a nice view of roanoake

[SC Cheesehead]

Wow I'm from lynchburg. I use to ride along with my fam alot on the brp alot very nice. In roanoake there's star mountain where you get a nice view of roanoake

Yup, we stayed over night in Roanoke on the way back from MV9, and took backroads down to I-77, beautiful drive.

[dakslim]

Ok? So tell us how you know?

Rita and I were coming back from Nashville and thought we'd do some leaf peeping on the way.:) Tried to do the Cades Cove route in Tn but was bumper to bumper there:(. Next we thought we'd go to Gatlinburg but couldn't even get near it, and had to pee really bad,:P so turned around and went through the Smokey's to Cherokee and we passed at least ten miles of cars trying to get to Gatlinburg/Pidgeon Forge.:eek:

[IwantmyMMnow!]

Wow, it sounds like a great "long weekend" trip, but that is 8 hours or so from us (we are north of Baltimore). We'd need to take off an extra day or so for traveling to Asheville; we don't have much vaca time:(; BUT, if you ever do the north end--now that is about 2-1/2 hours from us--we could do that in a 3-day weekend!!!

Good point, which is why I think the BRP can be a succesful event with different 'areas' being selected each year. The southern end will appeal to those in TN, GA, AL, NC, SC, and maybe northern (if not all of) FL. The northern end will appeal to those near it. Like I said in my OP, it will have a limited draw, but still generate interest across the board to those east of the Mississippi River.


Rita and I were coming back from Nashville and thought we'd do some leaf peeping on the way.:) Tried to do the Cades Cove route in Tn but was bumper to bumper there:(. Next we thought we'd go to Gatlinburg but couldn't even get near it, and had to pee really bad,:P so turned around and went through the Smokey's to Cherokee and we passed at least ten miles of cars trying to get to Gatlinburg/Pidgeon Forge.:eek:

The areas you are talking about are in TN; the BRP is in NC/VA only. It was "peak peeping" season two weekends ago when I went. Yes, it was the most traffic I had ever encountered, but it was by no means bumper-to-bumper.

[Marauderman]

Us Carolina guys did a run up through the mountains a few years back, including a stretch on the BRP, beautiful scenery in the fall, would love to do it again.

Kyle--I truly think your idea is absolutely fabulous--something on the idea of what Mike has created for Louisville each year--and we have it ..

The thought of segments annually does bring into account a lot of folks from different areas----

My thoughts go to a two day event like Louisville where we do say Mile marker blank to blank--have a pre-established stay-over where we all gather for the night and discuss it and the next days trip--no rush --no worry--just us--wow--that is a terrific --I always wanted to drive the entire route someday--and doing it in segments is terrific--plus the new friends and another plus--we keep the MM interest and events going on and on---

[IwantmyMMnow!]

Kyle--I truly think your idea is absolutely fabulous--something on the idea of what Mike has created for Louisville each year--and we have it ..

The thought of segments annually does bring into account a lot of folks from different areas----

My thoughts go to a two day event like Louisville where we do say Mile marker blank to blank--have a pre-established stay-over where we all gather for the night and discuss it and the next days trip--no rush --no worry--just us--wow--that is a terrific --I always wanted to drive the entire route someday--and doing it in segments is terrific--plus the new friends and another plus--we keep the MM interest and events going on and on---

Thanks for the nice comments, Tom...you're not just saying this because I bought your MM, are you? ;)

My goal in all of this is to create something that can be fun, generates continuous interest, isn't too long of an event to avoid making people choose one over the other, and avoid at all costs it being something that is too 'busy' to enjoy. MV9 had a great pace to it...just the right amount of things going on. The convoys were challenging, but I don't think that will be a problem on the BRP, as the speed limit is 45mph (slower in some areas) and not many people on it are 'in a hurry'.

Maybe also serve as a 'stepping stone' to help people come out for other events. Shortly after I bought my MM and saw all the talk about MV9, I knew I wanted to go, but was still unsure. After meeting a good portion of the Carolina Marauders at the BOC in May, I knew that I DIDN'T want to miss it! Possibly a BRP run could serve the same purpose?

Another good thing about this is the same group of people don't have to be 'tagged' in organizing it year after year. It can rotate between regional clubs in the eastern US, and then amongst the members within each regional club.

I just see the amazing potential in trying to establish a BRP run, and the possibilities to be endless in keeping it an interesting venue year after year. Even when the skies aren't cloud-free, it's still a beautiful place. When I was stationed/living in Asheville 10-12 years ago, I went up to Mt. Mitchell on a hot summer day. Storms had started to pop by the time I got there, but it was amazing to see pieces of clouds racing up the side of the mountain, across the road, then continuing up until out of site. Also, it was 62 degrees at the summit...a nice break from the 90+ temps in town.

[Mr. Man]

You may want to consider a jaunt on the BRP one of the days and a trip to ???? something the other. Not that driving on a road with amazing views isn't fun but for members who might travel from a great distance getting to see some of the local points of interest would be better draw. I know if I drove from NJ to Va or NC I would like to see something besides more road.:)

[Marauderman]

You may want to consider a jaunt on the BRP one of the days and a trip to ???? something the other. Not that driving on a road with amazing views isn't fun but for members who might travel from a great distance getting to see some of the local points of interest would be better draw. I know if I drove from NJ to Va or NC I would like to see something besides more road.:)

Exactly on point of what Kyle has in his thinking am sure--for example--get an established date --say 2 days--in that period the objective will be to go from marker x to y and in between there will be such and such to stop and visit /see/ browse, then back onto the Parkwway to the next little nich /town /secret place or whatever--the point is drift off the parkway and then back on--tihs way , we're keeping the entire useage of the parkway to a short area each year , but still using it as the rail from which to dart off and on to -----

Is that what your thinking or had in mind?

[IwantmyMMnow!]

The BRP is full of overlooks and larger viewpoints. Stopping at the overlooks would not be feasible, as most have limited parking areas (10-15 spots or less). The larger viewpoints have more parking...Craggy Gardens has a parking area that can handle approx 40 cars and Mt. Mitchell can handle 60-70.

I would need to look over the maps again, but I'm certain 'stopping points' can be chosen within 15-20 miles of each other, thus keeping the driving time needed from point A to B to C, etc, to around 30 minutes. Also, some points have hiking trails (such as Craggy Cardens), which I realize hiking is not everyone's cup of tea, but they will provide the opportunity to 'stretch your legs'.

Since I will be living in Asheville, I will have the ability to do a lot of 'research' on the NC portion of the BRP, determining good stopping points, etc. I can also venture into the VA portion as well when I have the time.

I appreciate everyone's feedback so far...

[Mr. Man]

Exactly on point of what Kyle has in his thinking am sure--for example--get an established date --say 2 days--in that period the objective will be to go from marker x to y and in between there will be such and such to stop and visit /see/ browse, then back onto the Parkway to the next little niche /town /secret place or whatever--the point is drift off the parkway and then back on--this way , we're keeping the entire usage of the parkway to a short area each year , but still using it as the rail from which to dart off and on to -----

Is that what your thinking or had in mind?

My thought was more BRP one day and visit something(s) the second or vis-versa. I was just thinking for those who might come from far away the trip would be more than a weekend trip and I for one would like to do some vacationy type stuff, hence the side trips to whatever.

Tom I think you and I are dancing around the same idea. :)

[Marauderman]

My thought was more BRP one day and visit something(s) the second or vis-versa. I was just thinking for those who might come from far away the trip would be more than a weekend trip and I for one would like to do some vacationy type stuff, hence the side trips to whatever.

Tom I think you and I are dancing around the same idea. :)

Your point is even better actually--I like it --puts the whole purpose in a better perspective and focus on specifics rather than the maybe's---such the work for Kyle to do for us ---yeah - a great bunch of ideas --

Are there more thoughts from anyone else to help Kyle in his researching.....come to think about it --I will talk to preacherman this weekend at the SSHS--he lives up there/that way---

[HammerDown]

My thought was more BRP one day and visit something(s) the second or vis-versa. I was just thinking for those who might come from far away the trip would be more than a weekend trip and I for one would like to do some vacationy type stuff, hence the side trips to whatever.

Tom I think you and I are dancing around the same idea. :)


That is also my thought--drive BRP for a good bit of one day, and see some local sights the next. It's just that darn "lack of vacation time" that gets in our way:(

[Haggis]

That is also my thought--drive BRP for a good bit of one day, and see some local sights the next. It's just that darn "lack of vacation time" that gets in our way:(

You and Jack should just retire, and then you would have as much vacation as you would like.

[HammerDown]

You and Jack should just retire, and then you would have as much vacation as you would like.


Wouldn't that be nice???????????

[Roadwarrior]

A possible stopover destination for the BRP run could be the Wheels Through Time museum in Maggie Valley on US 19N. {Its about 5.5 miles from the parkway @ MM 455} I haven't been there, but would be interested in paying them a visit sometime.Here is their website: www.wheelsthroughtime.com

[IwantmyMMnow!]

I know it's been a while since I've posted on this thread...I still want to make the BRP run happen. I've been very busy lately and haven't had as much time to devote to this website as I have in the past.

I still firmly believe that this is a doable event that can consistently draw 20+ MMs every year. If it takes off and becomes as popular as the Maraudervilles, Louisvilles, and Carlisles, then that's icing on the cake. My goal is getting it established, gauging the interest level, create a BLUEprint, and go from there.

The BRP can be flexible...1 day, 2 day, and even 3 day runs on the BRP are feasible, but not every year. There are also many venues within a short drive (<2 hours) of the BRP where a day can be spent as well.

I don't want interest to wane by making it too long of an event...I'm thinking 3 days max (Fri/Sat/Sun) at this point, leaning more closer to 2 days (meet Fri evening/disperse Sun). With the 'big 3' mentioned above, I realize the effort it takes for MM owners to pick and choose which ones they want to attend. Another goal is to give MM owners another venue to meet in case they are unable to attend one, two, or all of the 'big 3'. It's also one last opportunity to showcase your MM for those that "GQ" (garage queen) their MM for the winter.

I'll be moving to Asheville in approx 2 weeks; once I get settled in and the 'spring thaw' begins, I will be spending as much time as I can on the BRP to do research. In the future I will create a poll to start gauging interest. As always, I welcome any suggestions, comments, etc. from you all...especially those that have had a hand in organizing events.

Happy Holidays! :)

[Mr. Man]

If people are traveling any great distance Sunday is breakfast and go home day. I think if your looking to make this an "event" for the MM community and you want people to come from far away you are really looking at-arrive on Thurs and depart Sun after breakfast. That gives you Fri and Sat to do events. Thursday nite could be set up at a restaurant for those who arrive in time.:)

[Shaijack]

May be interested. Yes retire you have all the vacation time you want. Too much at times.

[Jimimac43]

The Museum in Maggie Valley is very nice, especially if you like motorcycles, specifically Harley-Davidson. The displays are unique. The cars on display are limited tho. At least when I was there 3 years ago. I read an article about the owner of the museum, it said that he has gotten almost every bike in there in running order. He shows up from time to time and will fire them up. for what it's worth, I have been a visitor to that area since I was 12 yrs old. It is very beautiful. If you think you will find a lot of night life, you may be disappointed. It's still for the most part is a small town additude. I go there for that exact reason, to get away from the madness. Also, for the uninitiated, October is when the leaves change, the out of staters go there in droves, surprisingly, the locals crowd the roads as well and really pack the roads. My point is , the BRP will be a slow-go as well. There are certain times that the BRP is so empty that it seems to be your own private road. That's when the fun starts. JMTCW.

[bugsyc]

The Family and I have been wanting to make this trip for a long time.I hope we are able to put it together as a group.We would love to be a part of it....bugsy

[Ms. Denmark]

______________

[Roadwarrior]

Among the many attractions along the length of the Blue Ridge Parkway, here's another one that could be of interest. It is the Virginia Museum of Transportation in downtown Roanoke,Va. ( www.vmt.org ) A very good source of information for planning activities, accomodations, places to eat etc. is the Blue Ridge Parkway Directory & Travel Planner available at NC welcome centers, comfort areas along the Parkway or online: www.blueridgeparkway.org

[IwantmyMMnow!]

This past Friday I spent about 5 hours on the Parkway; drove from my place up to the Linville Falls area, then back down to Craggy Gardens to watch the sunset. Stopped at a handful of places along the way, just doing some general 'recon', not really following a plan, and mainly made the drive to beat the heat. Was 95* when I first got on the Parkway, and the temps dropped down into the upper 70's during the stretch from Craggy Gardens to the Mt. Mitchell area, but then popped back up into the mid and upper 80's after that...it's HOT!

Needless to say, it re-kindled my interest in wanting to organize an annual BRP run...not necessarily a MM.net event, but something between a get-together and a full-blown meet. I realize it's a bit late in the game to do something substantial this year, but would like to know if there would be anyone interested in coming out this fall for a day and kind of make it a 'test' run; mainly interested in running the BRP from MP 385 to MP 330. (Asheville to Little Switzerland)

Even though that's only 55 miles, there's plenty to do/see in this stretch alone; enough to make it a full day (11-5) and get back to Asheville in time for dinner. Also want to keep it a bit short, as I'm not certain how 'busy' the Parkway will be. I'm thinking the 3rd weekend in October. It would be great to have some 'veteran' experience come along and help with suggestions, potential problems, etc. I have a rough idea of what can be planned for two years of what would most likely be a 4 or 5 year running event to cover the entire length of the Parkway (468 miles)...my rough idea for these two years, the BRP run will focus on the southern half (NC portion) of the Parkway.

At any rate, if there are members that live in close proximity to the Parkway (either NC or VA) and would like to be a part of making an annual BRP run a reality, please let me know and we can get in touch and start the brain-storming process.

To restate my goals of getting a BRP run going:

1. Not wanting to replace any of the 'Big 3' (Spring regional, Carlisle, MV) or other events; just provide another opportunity for those that may not have been able to make it to any/all of those events
2. Help us cope with the post-Marauderville 'let down'...:)
3. For some, it will be the last chance to 'showcase' your MM before you store it for the winter
4. Beautiful cars and beautiful scenery...it just makes sense!

I am open to feedback as to why a BRP run is/isn't doable....I realize having too many get-togethers on the schedule will cause people to have to pick and choose which ones they want to go to. It looks like the SSHS event is gaining momentum and I don't want to draw people away from that and I realize Marauderville will have higher precedence as well (as it should). Just want to provide another option...

[Roadwarrior]

I'll be up for this. Let me know what can I do to help with the "brainstorming" part. I won't be able to go to MV 10, so I can make this one ( Saturday or Sunday), barring any unforseen circumstances.

[IwantmyMMnow!]

I'm planning on taking my kids to Linville Caverns the weekend after next. Part of our trip includes staying at the Switzerland Inn, which is just off the Parkway. Was perusing their site to find rates and whatnot and stumbled across some interesting information. They LOVE having groups associated with cars! They have a Jaguar group and Porsche group that holds an annual meet there.

There was even this blurb: "Riders and sportscar drivers challenging the Diamondback (http://www.diamondbacknc.com/) Motorcycle and Sportscar Route (226A) will find the Blue Ridge Parkway entrance and the Switzerland Inn right at the crest of the route.

This hotel was one of the places I was considering as a stay-over during the BRP run...can you image our MMs in the pic below? FULL OF WIN!!!

Will find out more info when I go up there with the kids...

[boatmangc]

If it was the weekend before SSHS I could be swayed...
I think by the week after the colors will be close to gone.

[IwantmyMMnow!]

If it was the weekend before SSHS I could be swayed...
I think by the week after the colors will be close to gone.


Below is this year's fall color 'forecast' for the BRP area near Asheville:


October 4-12: Highest elevations north of Asheville above 5,000 feet show the most color, especially in the Mount Mitchell (http://www.romanticasheville.com/mtmitchell.htm), Craggy Gardens, (http://www.romanticasheville.com/Craggy.htm) Grandfather Mountain (http://www.romanticasheville.com/grandfather.htm) and Rough Ridge (http://www.romanticasheville.com/rough_ridge.htm) areas.
October 10-19: Color will increase in elevations greater than 4,000 feet, including the Mount Pisgah (http://www.romanticasheville.com/mt_pisgah.htm), Black Balsam (http://www.romanticasheville.com/black_balsam.htm), Devil's Courthouse (http://www.romanticasheville.com/downtown.htm), Waterrock Knob (http://www.romanticasheville.com/waterrock_knob.htm) and Graveyard Fields (http://www.romanticasheville.com/graveyard.htm), southwest of Asheville on the Blue Ridge Parkway. It will also be peak color in the Highlands (http://www.romanticasheville.com/highlands.htm) area, with plenty of waterfalls (http://www.romanticasheville.com/highlands_waterfalls.htm) to enjoy, and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (http://www.romanticasheville.com/greatsmokymountains.htm).
October 15-24: Many of the surrounding mountains around Asheville show plenty of color, especially in the 3,000-4,000 foot elevation range. Take the Parkway north or south from Asheville. A great hike in Pisgah National Forest would be Looking Glass Rock (http://www.romanticasheville.com/looking_glass.htm) or Cradle of Forestry (http://www.romanticasheville.com/forest.htm). North of Asheville, head to Linville Gorge (http://www.romanticasheville.com/linville_gorge.htm) with hikes to the top of Table Rock (http://www.romanticasheville.com/table_rock_mountain.htm) and Hawksbill Mountain (http://www.romanticasheville.com/hawksbill_mountain.htm).
October 20-30: The city of Asheville (2,000 feet elevation) shows the brightest colors this week, along with areas around Hendersonville (http://www.romanticasheville.com/hendersonville.htm) and Brevard (http://www.romanticasheville.com/brevard.htm). This is the perfect week for a waterfall hike in DuPont State Forest (http://www.romanticasheville.com/dupont.htm) or leisurely walk at the NC Arboretum (http://www.romanticasheville.com/arboretum.htm). This is also the peak leaf color for Biltmore Estate (http://www.romanticasheville.com/biltmore_fall.htm).
October 24-November 5: The color show concludes in the Chimney Rock (http://www.romanticasheville.com/ChimneyRock.htm) area (elevation of 1,300 feet). Ride to the top of Chimney Rock or take a boat tour on Lake Lure (http://www.romanticasheville.com/lake_lure.htm).

[bugsyc]

Sounds like something I'd like to be part of.Always wanted to drive that highway but,never have..Count me in..

[SC Cheesehead]

As always, my work schedule will predicate my availability... :(

[IwantmyMMnow!]

Sounds like something I'd like to be part of.Always wanted to drive that highway but,never have..Count me in..


As always, my work schedule will predicate my availability... :(

Thanks for the input, fellas.

This year I just want to do a test/practice/recon run. Am thinking Saturday only to avoid making hotel reservations a necessity for those that are interested...but still an option. Probably hit the Parkway late morning til late afternoon (11-5)....that will give those that are within 2-3 hours of Asheville the opportunity to come out and get back home the same evening.

Will only be covering approx 50-60 miles, so 6 hours will be plenty of time, unless the Parkway is REALLY busy. If others are coming from farther out, then they can determine/plan what's best for them...stay Fri or Sat night, or both if they want. There will be things to do during the evenings...just wandering downtown alone is a full night...literally dozens of bars/shops/whatnot to check out.

MVX will put a strain on most peoples' budgets, so want to allow time to 'recover' to help with participation. SSHS is the first weekend in Nov, so don't want to be back-to-back with that event as most members won't be able to attend events on back-to-back weekends. Want to find a happy medium between these two events, as well as what would be a good weekend for fall colors, which is why I'm thinking Oct 20th as first choice this year.

If it turns out that only a few can make it out this way, I will be more than happy with that. If more than 7-8 can make it, then I'll have more than expected (and will be wondering if I bit off more than I can chew...:eek:).

Those that do make it out this way I want to give me feedback on everything...from the time you leave your place until you get back.

Thanks for the help....as of now, this 'test' run will take place on Oct 20th; on the BRP from 11am-5pm. Before/after BRP run activities will be determined at a later date...ideas/suggestions/comments welcome...tell me what you would like to do/see and we'll go from there...

[robertmee]

As always, my work schedule will predicate my availability... :(

Same here....If I'm around I'll consider heading out

[Roadwarrior]

October 20 would be a good date. There is an All Ford & Mustang Show in Wilmington,NC on October 13 @ Capital Ford Lincoln.http://www.mercurymarauder.net/forums/showthread.php?t=79850. I'm guessing the BRP run would start at Little Switzerland & travel southbound towards Asheville? The Switzerland Inn could be a nice starting point for this, or is there another location for a starting point. :help: If my work schedule cooperates with me, I'll probably leave the Triad area at @ 7-8 a.m.Saturday & travel 3+ hrs. to the area & spend the night & return home Sunday. If I decide to also attend the show in Wilmington the previous weekend (would be arriving there mid-day), I'm planning to spend the night there & return home the next day as well.

[boatmangc]

SSHS12 should be Nov 5

[IwantmyMMnow!]

I'm guessing the BRP run would start at Little Switzerland & travel southbound towards Asheville? The Switzerland Inn could be a nice starting point for this, or is there another location for a starting point.

Here's a rough idea of what I have in mind for that day:

?-10:30am--TBD
10:30--meet at pre-determined location in Asheville (location will be 15 mins from Parkway at most and in close proximity to gas station...hint, hint).
10:45--depart for Parkway
11:00--enter Parkway (most likely at MP 383); head north
11:05--Visit Folk Art Center (MP 382); consider as a stop
11:30--Depart FAC
11:55--Arrive at Craggy Gardens (MP 364); consider as a stop
12:15--Depart Craggy Gardens
12:30--Arrive at entrance to Mt. Mitchell State Park (MP 354); this is just the entrance...restaurant/observation deck is another 4.5/5 miles.
12:40--Arrive at restaurant for lunch
1:30--Depart restaurant and drive last .5 mile to observation deck. No need to 'consider'...this will be a stop
2:00--Depart Mt. Mitchell
2:45--Arrive at Little Switzerland (MP 332). This will be a stop (and future overnight stay location)...will need to do a decent amount of info gathering here...and maybe grab a snack/adult beverage.
4:00--Depart Little Switzerland; head back to Asheville
4:15--Crabtree Meadows/Falls (?) (MP 341) see below for explanation of (?)
5:00/5:15--Depart BRP at MP 383 (East Asheville); after BRP activities TBD

This itinerary will in no way be similar to an actual BRP run...more time will be built in at each stop and the day will conclude with an overnight stay at the Switzerland Inn. Also, the actual MP where we enter the Parkway may be different as well (there are a total of 4 'entry points' in the Asheville area...MP 383, 385, 388 & 395). MP 395 will be the entry point of choice when the 'south' run (MP 395 to 468) is made.

Where I have 'consider for stop' means we will check out that location and see if it is feasible to consider making it a stop. Also, the Mt. Mitchell restaurant/observation deck can be swapped if there's a big lunch crowd when we arrive...which is possible since it's the only restaurant on the BRP for miles.

The ? for Crabtree...I stopped here the weekend before last and am not sure if this would be a good stop or not. There is a snack/gift shop, but to see the falls would entail a 3-mile roundtrip hike, which would make this stop at least 90 mins long and not everyone would want to hike 3 miles....don't want people sitting around and grumbling about doing nothing for any length of time. I didn't do the hike when I stopped...it was 88* and I didn't have the time built in to do it.

The arrival times I came up with above were based on speeds of 40mph; speed limit is 45, but I imagine will be traveling closer to 35-40mph based on traffic. This is another aspect I'd like to get a better handle on with 'real time' experience.

Like I posted earlier, I will be going this very same route in 8 days and will be staying at the Switzerland Inn, so I plan on trying to gather as much 'intel' as possible amidst breaking up the sibling rivalry that will be going on in the back seat... ;)

I appreciate everyone's interest and feedback...I know I can't do this alone.

[Roadwarrior]

Thanks Kyle. That sounds like a plan. On a different note, would it be a good idea to use an FRS radio for those that attend this event to keep tabs on whats going on traffic wise ahead/deer sightings/speed traps/singing "99 bottles of beer on the wall"? :dunno:

[boatmangc]

I will be arriving in Kennesaw Ga on 10/25 0r 10/26

[Ms. Denmark]

We'll keep our eye on this. Sounds like a great time! Just need to check on getting time off for a long weekend. Are you getting a block of rooms reserved at the hotel?

[IwantmyMMnow!]

Thanks Kyle. That sounds like a plan. On a different note, would it be a good idea to use an FRS radio for those that attend this event to keep tabs on whats going on traffic wise ahead/deer sightings/speed traps/singing "99 bottles of beer on the wall"? :dunno:

Yes...FRS radios are a great commodity. Even when it was just me and Rex convoying down to GA last weekend, they still came in handy. I'm gonna get a set of my own soon. I don't think we'll have to worry about speed traps, but I did see some wild turkeys during my last trip...and no, I wasn't looking in the mirror. ;)


I will be arriving in Kennesaw Ga on 10/25 0r 10/26

If you'd like to take a cruise on the Parkway while you're in GA, just let me know...I won't turn down the opportunity, especially during fall. Perhaps you could help me do some recon on the south end, which is on the Cherokee Indian Reservation...casinos, hotels, restaurants...the whole shabang. Mt. Pisgah (which is about 25 miles south of Asheville) is an awesome place as well...home of the "Pisgah Inn Restaurant"...many people drive over an hour to have breakfast there. I've been there twice; both occasions I wasn't hungry again until dinner time...

[IwantmyMMnow!]

We'll keep our eye on this. Sounds like a great time! Just need to check on getting time off for a long weekend. Are you getting a block of rooms reserved at the hotel?

Since this fall I just want to do a practice run for only a day, there will not be an overnight stay in Little Switzerland; I'm not certain how soon they get filled up with reservations for the fall season...will find out more info when I'm up there next weekend.

For this practice run, it would be best for any 'overnighters' to plan on staying in Asheville. I'll get in touch with Marauderman to see if he has any hotel connections up here, and if it looks like there will be a decent amount of people coming out (5 or more), I'll look into getting a block of rooms. Over the next few weeks, I can visit the hotels that are closer to my end of town (east side of Asheville), which will most likely be cheaper than the hotels that are closer to downtown, to get an idea on a reservation cut-off date.

Where these hotels are located won't cause an issue geographically; the group of hotels near me is only 5 minutes from the parkway and 15 minutes from downtown. There's a Days Inn (just recently remodeled), Holiday Inn Express, and two others I can't remember the names of at the moment. I've stayed in each one during the course of the year last year when I was still living in SC and driving up here to see my kids and liked them all. The bunch that's located on the west side of town have a few 'questionable' hotels, and the ones located closer to downtown are more expensive...I got a lot of 'hotel' experience last year...lol.

I'm new to the 'getting a block of rooms reserved' gambit, so if anyone can pass along advice/give pointers on the best way to go about this, I'm all ears!

Thanks again for everyone's interest...I'm getting really excited about it for this year, even though it's just going to be a one-day practice run...

[Marauderman]

I'll ask my Hilton Sales Director here in town if he has any contacts or helpful info via email--hope he will reply quickly and I will relay--prolly in morn after 9AM--

POST EDIT-- Have sent email already --hope he reads it first thing in morn and responds--

[IwantmyMMnow!]

I'll ask my Hilton Sales Director here in town if he has any contacts or helpful info via email--hope he will reply quickly and I will relay--prolly in morn after 9AM--

POST EDIT-- Have sent email already --hope he reads it first thing in morn and responds--

Thanks, Tom...I'm planning on going to the above mentioned hotels tomorrow to get info...it's just gonna be too hot (high in low 90's) to try and do any car stereo installation stuff I had planned on tackling tomorrow.

[Go2GuyFL]

My client is www.thevillageinnsofblowingroc k.com ... 1.5 hrs northeast of Asheville. I've been wanting to take my family there while the Tweetsie Railroad is open. Let me know if I can help make a connection.

[IwantmyMMnow!]

My client is www.thevillageinnsofblowingroc k.com (http://www.thevillageinnsofblowingroc k.com) ... 1.5 hrs northeast of Asheville. I've been wanting to take my family there while the Tweetsie Railroad is open. Let me know if I can help make a connection.

Will do...thanks!

As an 'overall picture' of the BRP run, this is what I'm thinking:

The BRP is 468 miles long. The north end is about 25 miles SW of Charlottesville, VA; south end is 5 miles from Cherokee, NC. No way the entire length can be done at once, unless we held a 7 to 10 day long meet...yeah, not gonna happen.

So, it's gotta be broken up into sections and a different section will be 'run' each year. Determining the length of each section will be vital...too long means more time spent in the car vs out, too short means it will take many years to run the entire length. When I first began to look at a map of the BRP, one of the first things I noticed was that it is approx 75 miles from Asheville to the southern end. I felt like this was a good baseline number to start working with. Trying to run the entire length in 4 years would require each section to be around 115 miles...a little too much, in my mind. 5 years comes out to 90-95 mile sections. Another reason I was thinking this way is because I figured the BRP run would be a 2-2.5 day event.

But there's more to consider than just mileage per section. What if the start/end of a section puts you in the middle of nowhere? You also have to match the start/end points of each section near an area that has ample food/lodging/etc. Once I got this piece considered, it was easy to see that Asheville could be the 'hub' for the 2 sections that would be run in NC...Asheville-south one year and Asheville-north another year.

So, with all of the above in mind, the BRP run could be broken down into these five sections; sections 3-5 I haven't spent nowhere near as much time on as I have sections 1-2, so those sections right now are just a best guess:

1. Asheville to south end; MP 383 to MP 468 (85 miles)
2. Asheville to Blowing Rock; MP 383 to MP 293 (90 miles)
3. Meet in Mt. Airy, NC, drive 15 miles to enter Parkway at MP 200, go south to MP 293 (Blowing Rock, NC) or vice-versa
4. Roanoke, VA south to Mt. Airy, NC (MP 110ish to MP 200) or vice-versa
5. Roanoke, VA to north end; MP 105ish to MP 0 (105ish miles) or meet in Charlottesville and go south to Roanoke...this would add 25 miles as Charlottesville is that far from the north end.

The stretch from Blowing Rock, NC, to Roanoke, VA, (MP 293 to MP 110's) presents the biggest obstacle, as there are only a handful of 'decent-sized' cities/towns that are in close proximity to the BRP; there is also the lack of major highways/interstates as well, with the exception of Interstate 77 intersecting the BRP near MP 200 (which is also near Mt. Airy, NC). So, to add to the above about finding good start/end points, you also need to keep in mind of how easy it is for everyone to get to and leave from these points.

The nothern (#5, #4 maybe) and southern (#'s 1&2) sections are covered well by this with the cities of Asheville and Roanoke...in between it gets a little on the 'spartan' side. The Cherokee Indian Reservation is a great terminus for the south end and Charlottesville would be an equal terminus for the north end.

If there are any members in VA near the BRP and have any insight on the VA sections, please chime in!

Thanks for reading this long-winded post...

[IwantmyMMnow!]

The Switzerland Inn is completely booked this weekend, so won't be staying there as planned. I'll try to stop by and get info as I still plan on taking my kids to Linville Caverns. If I don't get a chance to drop in, I'll try and get up there towards the end of next week, when I am back to just one class...right now I've got morning and evening class going on until next Tuesday.

[IwantmyMMnow!]

Hard to believe it's been more than two weeks since I last posted up about this...

I didn't get a chance to stop at the Switzerland Inn like I had hoped a couple of weekends ago...no worries, as this piece isn't that critical yet. My kids and I did have lunch at the restaurant located next to Mt. Mitchell State Park. The food was very good and they have a decent variety to choose from. I've tried to find an on-line menu to post up here, but no luck yet. I talked to the manager afterwards, giving him the 411 about our club/website and my 'vision'. They do have a banquet room that can be used for larger crowds, but I didn't ask how much $$$. Figured it would only be needed if we had more than 12 people this fall as the regular seating area is fairly large and tables can be rearranged for groups of 12 or less. The manager also said that during the 'leaf-peeping' season, business does vary greatly on a daily basis, but he said they will be more than happy to accomodate us as long as they get a couple days' advance notice. I told him that this fall there will probably be 10-12 people at most and that next fall (2013) is when having a larger group will occur.

While driving to/by potential stopping points, I took notice of how long it took to get to each place, and the times I had posted up for the practice run were fairly close...within 5 minutes. I did get behind a few 'slow' (<40mph) vehicles on the way, which is a strong possibility of happening during the fall season, so I feel confident in my arrival time calculations based on speeds of 35-40mph.

As for this fall, the group of hotels near me aren't willing to reserve a block of rooms unless it is 8-10 or more and the commitment on our part needs to be made anywhere from 30-60 days out....good info for next year. So with that piece, those that are interested in coming out this fall (Oct 20th is the date) and want to stay overnight, you will have to make your own reservations. For the heck of it, I went onto hotwire.com to look up rates for that weekend and rates range from $95-$125 per night. I imagine these rates will go up as we get closer to fall. If you have your own method for finding cheaper rates, use it. If you are using hotwire.com, the hotels that are located near me are grouped in 'central Asheville'. I know this may make things a bit difficult when trying to determine a 'meeting point' if people are spread out for this fall, but it is what it is and can be mitigated.

As always, comments/suggestions/questions are welcome. I will create a poll and post up within the next few days to get an idea of how many to expect this year.

[Roadwarrior]

Any updates? Who's planning on going to this? Where to meet on Oct. 20 if this is going as scheduled? :dunno:

[IwantmyMMnow!]

Any updates? Who's planning on going to this? Where to meet on Oct. 20 if this is going as scheduled? :dunno:

I apologize for not posting up anything prior to this...been pre-occupied with school and other things. We got a taste of cooler weather today (morning low 52, afternoon high of 74), which brought my mind back to my favorite season and how beautiful this area will be soon.

As I mentioned in an earlier post, I planned the practice run itinerary so an overnight stay would not be required. Those of you that want to stay overnight, I suggest you choose one of the following hotels, as these hotels are closest to the entry point for the BRP:

Holiday Inn-East; 1450 Tunnel Road, Asheville, NC (877) 375-0707
Days Inn Biltmore East; 1435 Tunnel Road, Asheville, NC (828) 298-4000
Quality Inn & Suites Biltmore East; 1430 Tunnel Road, Asheville, NC (877) 299-5519
For those of you looking for cheaper alternatives:
Super 8 Swannanoa River; 1329 Tunnel Road, Asheville, NC (828) 298-7952
Motel 6 1415 Tunnel Road, Asheville, NC (828) 299-3040

I contacted the first 3 hotels about reserving a block of rooms; overall, they needed a minimum of 8-10 rooms to be reserved and required these rooms be booked at least 30-60 days in advance...which is 10 days from now or 2 weeks ago, depending on the hotel. These hotels are usually full during fall, so if you can wing it, reserve your room soon...you can always canx a couple days before if you won't be able to make the trip.

These hotels are <1 mile from the interstate (I-40, exit 55), are surrounded by a decent amount of restaurants (mostly fast-food), gas stations, etc, are <10 minutes from my place and <5 minutes from the BRP.

I have made some changes to the itinerary I posted up a couple months ago...new itinerary is below:

(This itinerary covers BRP activities on Saturday; activities outside of the BRP can be coordinated later)

10:15--meet at pre-determined location in East Asheville (location will be <5 mins from Parkway and in close proximity to gas station...hint, hint).
10:30 / 10:35--depart for Parkway/enter Parkway (MP 382); head south
10:40--Arrive at new Park Headquarters/Visitors Center (MP 384) (addition to previous itinerary)
11:05--Depart VC, head north on Parkway
11:15--Arrive at Folk Art Center (MP 381)
11:40--Depart FAC, head north
12:25--Arrive at entrance to Mt. Mitchell State Park (MP 354); this is just the entrance...restaurant/observation deck is another 4.3/5 miles.
12:35--Arrive at restaurant for lunch
1:30--Depart restaurant and drive last .7 mile to observation deck.
2:05 / 2:15--Depart Mt. Mitchell obs deck / state park & re-enter BRP
2:45--Arrive at Little Switzerland (MP 332).
3:30--Depart Little Switzerland; head south
4:15--Arrive at Craggy Gardens (MP 364) (moved from AM to PM)
4:40--Depart Craggy Gardens; head south
5:15--Depart BRP at MP 382 (East Asheville)

If anyone thinks there is not enough time booked in at each stop, let me know. Arrival times are based on driving speeds of ~ 35-40mph. While this has more of a 'recon mission' feel to it, I realize that some may want to spend a little more time at each stop than what I have in the itinerary. Sunset is at 6:47 this day, so the itinerary can be stretched to where we aren't leaving the BRP until 6-ish, if need be. Also, if it turns out that there won't be anyone driving into Asheville that morning, the itinerary start time can be bumped up to add more time into each stop.

Friday/Saturday evening activities can be coordinated once a firm head count for each night is determined. There is a parking deck downtown that's free the first hour, .75 each hour after, unless there's a special event going on that night at the US Cellular Center, which is next to the parking deck; it's $5, no time limit in this case. Parking on the streets downtown is free after 5pm, but finding a spot on weekend evenings can be a task. I'll have my kids that weekend, so my curfew will be 10pm both nights...lol.

Of course, weather will be a huge player on this day. The stops that are strictly outdoors are Craggy Gardens and the observation deck at Mt. Mitchell.

If anyone has any questions about anything in regards to this practice run, please ask and I'll get an answer for you.

Might be a good idea to create a new thread after MVX to begin a head count?

[Roadwarrior]

Thanks for the update & the list of hotels Kyle. Will be subscribing for future updates to the BRP. :popcorn:

[IwantmyMMnow!]

I have created a poll located at link below:

http://www.mercurymarauder.net/forums/showthread.php?p=1217019#post1 217019

[boatmangc]

1 week too early for me, I arrive on 10/25-26

[Roadwarrior]

:bump: :bump: :bump: Anybody going, even for a day? Buehler? Buehler? :dunno:

[fastblackmerc]

Won't be able to make it.

Since I'll be at the car show in Wilmington next Saturday, my wife wants to do something so we will most likely be here:

http://yvgf.com/

Close but not close enough..... :bigcry:

[Marauderman]

We're making plans to be in Wilmington this coming weekend the 13th, then I have to work the following weekend the 20th, and the 27th I will be in Alt. :burn: and the following back in Alt. :burn:

[Roadwarrior]

We're making plans to be in Wilmington this coming weekend the 13th, then I have to work the following weekend the 20th, and the 27th I will be in Alt. :burn: and the following back in Alt. :burn:

Did you mean {Atl.} Atlanta? :confused: I'm guessing to attend the SSHS 12 on the weekend in November? :dunno:

[Marauderman]

Did you mean {Atl.} Atlanta? :confused: I'm guessing to attend the SSHS 12 on the weekend in November? :dunno:

Yep....fingers were in fast mode on the keys then..:lol:

[Roadwarrior]

Okay. That 'splainz the keyboard malfunction [ uhh, operator error.] ^ ^ ^. :lol:

[SC Cheesehead]

I'm also going to be in Wilmington this coming weekend, and will be headed to ATL as for SSHS12 the first weekend in Nov.

[Roadwarrior]

Will be meeting with "IwantmyMMnow" tomorrow morning for the BRP run. After this weekend, I can say that I had almost driven my MM from the eastern border to the western border of North Carolina in the span of a little more than a week.:up: :burnout:

[Roadwarrior]

Met with "IwantmyMMnow" this past Saturday for the trial run of the BRP run. The weather was perfect for a leisurely drive [mid 40's-lower 50' degrees & no precipitation.] The fall foilage was at its peak, or in higher elevations, a little past its peak, but still beautiful to look at. An overall nice outing & would make a good event for a car/motorcycle group to do in the future. The first picture was taken at the Blue Ridge Pkwy visitors center. The second picture was my view of "IwantmyMMnow" Silver Birch going north on the parkway. The third picture was taken at the parking lot of the restaurant in the Mount Mitchell State Park. Visitors could walk up to the observation deck located at the summit of Mount Mitchell{short drive from the restaurant.} & can be standing at the highest point east of the Mississippi River at 6,684 feet above sea level. On a clear day from the lookout tower, the visibility can reach 75 miles. The fourth picture was taken at the Switzerland Inn (www.SwitzerlandInn.com), an excellent place for an overnight stay for a future multi-day car club outing & has accomodated several car club gatherings from Jaguar, Porsche,Triumph & Pontiac Fiero :eek: in the past. More pictures of my trip to follow later.

[bugsyc]

I was in Wilmington winning my first place plaque...When is the next leg of "The Blue Ridge Mountain run"???? I'd love to drive that highway,never been...

[Roadwarrior]

I was in Wilmington winning my first place plaque...When is the next leg of "The Blue Ridge Mountain run"???? I'd love to drive that highway,never been...
Probably in October 2013 in time for peak leaf watching & around 5-6 weeks after Marauderville. From November-March, some exhibits & attractions are closed for the season. Stay tuned...

[Roadwarrior]

Here are some pictures of the scenery from driving the Blue Ridge Parkway. Most of the images would have to be rotated to the right 1 time to view them properly.

[Roadwarrior]

Here are some pictures of the Switzerland Inn from the parking lot. The last picture was taken at the observation platform/summit of Mount Mitchell. ( From left to right: IwantmyMMnow, Roadwarrior). At the time[mid-afternoon] the temperature was 43 degrees with a wind chill of @ 32-35 degrees.

[IwantmyMMnow!]

Thanks for taking/posting up the pics, Richard. The camera lens on my cell phone is scratched up and takes horrible pics, so I opted not to take any...will be getting a new phone when my current contract is up.

Even though it was just the two of us, we represented 50% of the Marauder colors....lol. The following is what I learned from our excursion:

--Didn't get on the BRP until 11:30 and it was just after 7 when we wrapped it up, so I'm thinking a 9am start time will be good to go with. However, we were treated to a very colorful sunset.
--Traffic wasn't too bad on the BRP, but all the places we stopped at were crowded. This may present a problem in parking together at stops.
--Even though traffic was light, it only takes one $*&%# going 30mph to cause travel time from one stop to the next to be longer. Also, there was a 'construction zone' that had 1/2 mile of the BRP down to just one lane...this delayed us by 15-20 minutes getting to the restaurant...will need to keep this in mind for next year.
--We arrived at the Mt. Mitchell restaurant at 2 and it was still packed. Had to wait 30 minutes for a table; they do have a banquet hall that I was told can be reserved for a large crowd, but it is also used as a waiting area, so need to find out more info on that. The food was good and prices ranged from $8-$15...no alcohol served or allowed in the park area, though.
--Although Craggy Gardens is my favorite place, will most likely drop it from the itinerary as the only thing to do at this spot is hike 3/4 mile to the top; the view is worth it, but the trail gets pretty steep at the end and I know not everyone will be able to or interested in doing this.
--Each stop will have a 1 hour time limit, minimum...lots to look at at each stop.
--Will try to work in a visit to the Biltmore Estate at all future runs; this venue can be worked into both the north (Asheville-Little Switzerland) and south (Asheville-Cherokee) runs.
--Need to have at least 1/2 tank of gas before getting on BRP. I had a full tank at start and when we reached Little Switzerland, my gauge was halfway between 1/2 and 3/4.
--I did get contact info for Little Switzerland; will send an email within the next couple weeks.

It was a great day and had beautiful colors and weather...hope we get lucky and have the same conditions next year.

Edit: This Saturday I am planning on taking my kids to the Pisgah Inn restaurant on the BRP; this venue is located on the south run. If they don't put up too much of a fuss, I'll make a little trip out of it to start doing recon for the southern route.

[Bluerauder]

This really sounds like a great trip that I'd like to try. However, it would have to be set up as a 4-day event similar to Louisville, KY to make it worth my while to drive down. It is just about an 8-hour trip one way for me. Closer to 9-10 for Maryland/New Jersey/Delaware/Pennsylvania folks. New York a tad more. That's where your bulk of participants will come from based on past events.

Thursday is a travel day with after 6:00 PM activities (e.g. restaurant gathering or similar).

Friday and Saturday are events in and around Asheville. One day on the BRP and another at some other local places/venues.

Sunday is a breakfast and farewell someplace and everyone hits the road enroute to their homes.

Not worth my time for a 1-day or 1/2 day event if I have to spend 2-days in the car to get to & from there. Main event needs to be a 2-day deal at least.

Also the timing needs to be de-conflicted by a minimum of 30 days from other major MM events since you will likely draw participation from the bank of usual suspects plus a few day trippers.

Those are my thoughts FWIW.

[Roadwarrior]

This really sounds like a great trip that I'd like to try. However, it would have to be set up as a 4-day event similar to Louisville, KY to make it worth my while to drive down. It is just about an 8-hour trip one way for me. Closer to 9-10 for Maryland/New Jersey/Delaware/Pennsylvania folks. New York a tad more. That's where your bulk of participants will come from based on past events.

Thursday is a travel day with after 6:00 PM activities (e.g. restaurant gathering or similar).

Friday and Saturday are events in and around Asheville. One day on the BRP and another at some other local places/venues.

Sunday is a breakfast and farewell someplace and everyone hits the road enroute to their homes.

Not worth my time for a 1-day or 1/2 day event if I have to spend 2-days in the car to get to & from there. Main event needs to be a 2-day deal at least.

Also the timing needs to be de-conflicted by a minimum of 30 days from other major MM events since you will likely draw participation from the bank of usual suspects plus a few day trippers.

Those are my thoughts FWIW.
Good points outlined above. ^^^ This year was a 1 day deal to get an idea of the logistics involved in planning for future outings on the 1st. BRP run next year on IwantmyMMnow's part. Plans are for a multi-day event around this time of year in subsequent years on different segments of the BRP in NC & VA and the Skyline Drive in Virginia. Probably would need some feedback from CAM members that are familiar with the Virginia segment of the highway for ideas on attractions & accomodations when that section comes up for planning & organizing this section.{If there is any interest,@ Fall of 2015-2017} :dunno: I think the original post for this thread had explain the idea of covering different sections of the highway each year, since its 468 miles long & doing it all of it in one trip would be impossible. Stay tuned for further updates on this thread.

[IwantmyMMnow!]

Thanks for the input, Charlie. I don't think the BRP run is ready to be a 4-day event right out of the gate...maybe by fall of 2015, but most likely 2016. Next year I plan on trying to make it a F-S-S event...just have to wait and see.

I realize (and have stated so) that when the BRP run takes place in the NC portion, the majority of the draw will come from the Southeast. When the BRP run is held in the VA portion, it will draw those that don't want to drive to NC--mainly the CAMers. This is completely understandable and something that can be planned for. Not everyone lives 5 mins from the BRP like me, after all.

I have no problem being the go-to-guy when it comes to organizing the NC portion and I've already got Richard on board to help me out, but I/we can't do the entire BRP alone. Someone else will need to organize the VA portion...I'll just consider myself lucky that I will be able to participate in both since I live so close to the BRP.

The toughest part will be trying to determine when it will be held. Have it too early or too late and we'll be looking at trees with green leaves or no leaves. Oct 15th-20th is usually the 'sweet spot', so +/- a week from this window should be good. Also want to wait at least 4 weeks after MV takes place...if MV is held late (i.e., MV9), then BRP won't happen.

Lots of things to consider and I appreciate the interest. I still feel a BRP run can draw a decent crowd every year, whether it's taking place in NC or VA.

[bugsyc]

Looks like y'all had a great trip.Sorry I could'nt make it.Next time for sure..