Cold Prong Pond to Moses Cone Manor House

The estimated moving time for this 18.1 km (11.2 miles) touring bicycle route is around 1 hour and 15 minutes. However, this can vary significantly based on your fitness level, the time you spend enjoying the views, and any stops you make along the way.

The route begins near Cold Prong Pond. While specific parking details for Cold Prong Pond are not provided, cyclists typically find parking along the Blue Ridge Parkway at designated overlooks or access points. For the Moses Cone Manor House end, there is ample parking available at the Moses Cone Manor itself.

The route primarily follows the paved Blue Ridge Parkway. However, be aware that there are segments that may be unpaved and potentially challenging. Approximately 9.73 km (6 miles) are asphalt, with about 4.33 km (2.7 miles) of unpaved sections. The extensive carriage trails within Moses Cone Memorial Park are not open to cycling, so plan to stay on the Parkway or adjacent cycling-permitted routes.

This route is classified as 'moderate' for cycling, indicating that a good level of fitness is required. While much of it is paved, the presence of unpaved sections and an elevation gain of around 293 meters (951 feet) means it might be challenging for absolute beginners. It's best suited for cyclists with some experience.

You can expect beautiful mountain scenery throughout. Near Cold Prong Pond, you'll find open fields with potential views of Grandfather Mountain. As you approach the Moses Cone Manor, the scenery includes lush forests, meadows, apple orchards, and Bass Lake. The Manor House itself offers panoramic mountain views from its front porch. You'll also pass by the Julian Price Camp & surroundings.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is generally open from spring through fall. Spring offers blooming wildflowers, summer provides lush greenery, and fall is famous for its vibrant foliage. Always check weather and road conditions, especially in late fall or early spring, as sections of the Parkway can close due to ice or snow.

Yes, the route ends at the significant Moses Cone Manor, part of the Moses H. Cone Memorial Park. This historic estate features the Flat Top Manor, which now houses the Parkway Craft Center where you can browse and purchase handmade crafts. The park also boasts apple orchards and Bass Lake.

While the primary cycling route follows the Blue Ridge Parkway, this area is rich with other trails. The route briefly overlaps with sections of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, Tanawha Trail, and Boone Fork Trail. However, please note that the extensive carriage roads within Moses Cone Memorial Park are specifically not open to biking.

Dogs are generally permitted on a leash along the Blue Ridge Parkway and in most outdoor areas of the Moses Cone Memorial Park. However, always ensure your dog is well-behaved and on a leash, and be mindful of other cyclists and visitors.

No, there are no entrance fees or permits required to access and cycle along the Blue Ridge Parkway or to visit the Moses Cone Memorial Park. It is a public recreation area.

While there isn't a cafe directly at the Moses Cone Manor, the nearby town of Blowing Rock offers various dining options, including cafes and restaurants, which are popular stops for cyclists in the area.