Spanning 469 miles from Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to the Great Smoky Mountains of North Carolina, the Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most scenic drives in the U.S. Here’s how to break it into memorable segments, with audiobook picks and attractions to enjoy along the way.
Shenandoah National Park → Roanoke, VA
Drive Time: ~3–4 hours
Suggested Listen: The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett (~4 hrs)
"The Time Machine" bu H. G. Wells (3 Hrs. 9 Mins.)
Recommended Stops:
· Skyline Drive Scenic Overlooks – Beautiful mountain views from multiple pull-offs
· Humpback Rocks – Visitor center, hiking trail, and restored pioneer homestead
· James River Visitor Center – A riverside rest stop with short walks and historical info
The Secret Garden sets a gentle, reflective tone that aligns beautifully with the lush, peaceful scenery of this stretch.
Roanoke → Asheville, NC
Drive Time: ~6 hours
Suggested Listen: The Hound of the Baskervilles by Arthur Conan Doyle (~6 hrs)
"Treasure Island" by Robert Louis Stevenson (Approx. 6 Hrs.)
Recommended Stops:
· Mabry Mill – A historic water-powered mill and restaurant, great for photos and stretching
· Blue Ridge Music Center – Live Appalachian music and interactive exhibits
· Linville Falls & Gorge – A scenic stop with multiple hiking trails and dramatic views
A suspenseful mystery like The Hound of the Baskervilles adds drama to this long and winding mountain section.
Asheville → Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Drive Time: ~2 hours
Suggested Listen: The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald (~5 hrs
"Beautiful Stories From Shakespeare" by Edith Nesbit (2 Hrs. 05 Min.)
Recommended Stops:
· Mount Pisgah Overlook – Soak in panoramic views from one of the Parkway’s highest points
· Cradle of Forestry – Learn about the history of forest conservation near Brevard
· Oconaluftee Visitor Center – Enjoy cultural exhibits and a chance to see wild elk
This leg is perfect for something rich and poetic like Gatsby, especially if you finish the book while relaxing at your destination.
Exploring the Smoky Mountains (Day Trips & Scenic Loops)
Drive Time: ~2–4 hours
Suggested Listen: The Call of the Wild by Jack London (~3 hrs)
"Billy Budd' by Herman Melville (Approx. 3 Hrs.)
Recommended Stops:
· Clingmans Dome – Short walk to the highest point in the Smokies
· Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail – Historic cabins, waterfalls, and quiet forest roads
· Chimneys Picnic Area – A peaceful place to recharge by the water
The Call of the Wild matches the rugged spirit of this wilderness stretch—perfect for early morning drives or winding scenic routes.
More of the Best Audiobooks to Add to Your Queue
Looking for backup options? Here are a few reader favorites to download in advance:
· Pride and Prejudice – Timeless, clever, and surprisingly modern
· Frankenstein – A moody classic with themes that linger
· Anne of Green Gables – Wholesome and wonderfully narrated
· Tarzan of the Apes – Adventure-packed and great for family listening
· Beautiful Stories from Shakespeare – Short and entertaining literary gems
Road Trip Audiobook Checklist
Before you hit the road, make sure you’re packed and ready to listen. Here’s what to bring:
✓ Fully charged phone or tablet
✓ Aux cable or Bluetooth connection
✓ Headphones for passengers (if needed)
✓ USB or car charger
✓ Pre-downloaded audiobooks from audiobookcontractors.com
✓ Notebook for jotting down quotes, game scores, or clues
✓ Your favorite snacks and drinks
✓ Playlist or backup podcast, just in case
Still Searching for the Right Audiobook?
Visit audiobookcontractors.com to explore hundreds of titles on CD and digital download. Whether you’re into mysteries, classics, or family-friendly adventures, we’ll help you find the best audiobooks for your next road trip.
