Blue Ridge Parkway

This is a quick report regarding current conditions along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia and North Carolina - a perennial favorite of Miata drivers from throughout the eastern U.S.  I drove most of the length of the Parkway from north to south on June 23 & 24, and found it to be the same great driving experience as in prior years.  If there is any road better suited to the particular performance capabilities of a Miata than the BRP, I haven't found it yet.  Although the maximum speed limit along the Parkway is only 45 mph (and less in many areas),  the endless array of curvy sections and frequent elevation changes presents a challenging driving experience.  I you don't enjoy shifting gears, cornering, and braking very often, the BRP is not for you!
 
On the downside, there is a considerable amount of road surface repair work now in progress in many areas north of Asheville, NC, resulting in numerous delays.  Several road sections under repair are reduced to one lane only, with traffic controllers stopping alternating traffic for 10-20 minute intervals.  In addition to interrupting one's driving fun, such delays can also make it difficult to accurately schedule lunch stops or plan arrival times at overnight lodging.  For Miata owners like me who are fussy about their car's appearance, there is also the nuisance of having your tires pick up little clods of hot asphalt which leave tar spots on wheels and lower body panels.  Ick!
 
Best advice - allow yourself plenty of time when planning your drive along the BRP this year, and be prepared to encounter road repair activity at any time.  You can also check the official BRP web site for current details concerning any road closures or detours.  Despite these unavoidable inconveniences, the BRP is still a drive well worth the time of any Miata owner looking for the ultimate "zoom-zoom" experience.
 
George Pio