Top the Tank: Innkeeper’s Guide to the Blue Ridge Parkway 2022

Recently, gas prices have been on the rise and seasonal cruisin’ has started to feel more like a luxury. The Asheville Bed and Breakfast Association wants to bring back that summer feeling with their Top the Tank event. All guests who book before August 31st, 2022, AND stay before September 30th, 2022 will receive a $25 Shell gift card that can be used to top your tank for an adventure on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Something about summer just makes you want to hop in the car and go for a cruise. There’s a sense of wondrous opportunity that makes the heart feel curious and wild. In the Asheville area, there is no better place for a summer drive than the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Three Popular Destinations on the Blue Ridge Parkway

When staying at a bed and breakfast, you have an expert local guide to advise you during your stay. What to see, where to eat, how to get there – innkeepers are the best resource to answer all your questions. Here are the top three destination hikes recommended by Asheville innkeepers:

1. Craggy Pinnacle Trail. Hop on the parkway and head north for this quick hike to 360º views. Get up early and head to the top for the sunrise, and you will be shrouded in misty, glowing sunlight. The bees will be there waiting for you, filling the air with their hum of chatter and excitement.
2. Graveyard Fields Trail. This time, head south on the parkway to one of the area’s most popular destination trails. Graveyard Fields appeals to almost everyone because it is relatively short and easy, and boasts gorgeous meadows and a couple of waterfalls. It’s also one of only a few trailheads that have restrooms by the parking lot.
3. Black Balsam Knob Trail. Just a short trip up the parkway from Graveyard Fields, this ridgeline hike is one of the most scenic in the Asheville area. The balsam firs that give this hike its name line the trailhead and fill the air with their sweet smell. Passing through the forest to the bald ridge feels like crossing a magical threshold.

A Secret Hike on the Blue Ridge Parkway

When heading North on the parkway, most people stop in at the Craggy Garden Visitor’s Center, but innkeeper Emilie Kapp at the Chestnut Street Inn has insider information on a less populated hike that’s located just around the corner. Emilie recommends continuing past the Visitors Center and through the next short tunnel. After the tunnel, take the first unmarked trail to the left. This 0.7-mile hike leads to 360º views. Depending on the season, there may even be blueberries ripe for the picking along the trail.

What to Eat on the Blue Ridge Parkway

As idyllic and wonderful as the Blue Ridge Parkway is, the one thing it lacks is dining options. That’s why it’s important to make a plan before setting out. 

1. The Pisgah Inn. From April to October, you can settle into one of the best views in Western North Carolina. The inn serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner – 7 days a week. Or, you can grab snacks from the gift shop and enjoy them on the large overlook deck. The Pisgah Inn is a great destination option for those who want the views, without the hike.
2. Pack a Picnic. Truthfully, there are few moments as pure and precious as a picnic on a mountaintop. Sure, you could explore Asheville’s co-ops and farmers markets to build your own; or, you could stay at one of the B&Bs that offer picnic packages and let our talented innkeepers pack one for you:
   1. Pinecrest B&B
   2. Engadine Inn & Cabins
   3. Abbington Green
   4. Chestnut Street Inn
   5. Bent Creek Lodge

Whatever you do, don’t allow today’s gas prices to put a damper on your adventures this year. The Blue Ridge Parkway is always waiting for you to come chasing that summer feeling. 

Take advantage of the Top the Tank event before it’s gone! Stay at any one of our member B&Bs before the end of September, and your $25 gas card will be waiting for you.***

***Offer limited to direct bookings made at any member of the Asheville Bed & Breakfast Association.  Valid on new bookings from July 9 through August 31, 2022; stays must be completed by September 30, 2022. Limit one $25 Shell gas card/customer.  This offer has no cash value.  Phone to book or add to “Preferences/Special Accommodations” when checking out online.***