THIS EVENT IS SOLD OUT FOR BOTH RIDERS AND DRIVERS. IF YOU WISH TO JOIN THE WAITLIST IN THE EVENT OF A CANCELLATION, PLEASE CLICK HERE.

PLEASE INDICATE ON YOUR WAITLIST RESERVATION IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN DRIVING YOUR OWN VEHICLE OR ATTENDING AS A RIDER IN A LEADER VEHICLE.

Join us for this popular 4-wheel drive caravan up the historic Mt. Mitchell railroad bed/Old Toll Road. Once a major tourist attraction, the “Old Toll Road” made the “apex of Appalachia accessible” for the cost of $1 per person. The road was first forged as a railway for the Perley and Crockett Lumber Company, then, in 1922, it was straightened and paved to become a toll road that came to accommodate as many as 150 cars each day. The opening of the modern, paved Blue Ridge Parkway in 1939, which provided free access to Mount Mitchell, led to the road’s closure. Today, the remnants of the former toll road remain undisturbed and the lands around it, undeveloped. We will make stops for panoramic views and historical presentations.

Note: This event will begin at 7:30am and ends in the evening, roughly between 4:30pm and 6:30pm. 

REGISTRATION:

Tickets are available per vehicle and per individual. Attendees who purchase vehicle tickets may bring as many guests as wished in their cars but must have their vehicle approved by tour leaders via email (see below). Individual attendees will ride with tour leaders in their vehicles.  

If you wish to register for this event, email SVM Assistant Director, Jess Wash, at svmvolunteer@gmail.com. If you wish to drive your own vehicle, please include the make and model of your car in your message. 

Please note that on this event we do not charge your card the full amount until approximately two days before the tour. A $20 nonrefundable deposit is required at registration. We will take your card information when you register, and you will be charged the remaining amount approximately two days before the tour.

Pricing:

Member Vehicle- $130

Non-Member Vehicle- $175

Member Rider – $50

Non-Member Rider – $75

Vehicles must meet the following criteria.

  • 4×4 
  • Transmission with extra low gears
  • Proper ground clearance. 

Cancellation Policy:

We understand that unexpected circumstances may arise. You may cancel your enrollment in the program for a full refund up to 48 hours before the program start date.

  • Cancellations made 48 hours or more before the program start date will receive a full refund.
  • Cancellations made less than 48 hours before the program start date will not be eligible for a refund.
  • A full refund will be offered if the museum cancels the program due to weather or unforeseen circumstances.

Please Note:

  • We strongly recommend notifying us of your cancellation in writing via email to swannanoavalleymuseum@gmail.com
  • You will receive a confirmation email upon processing your cancellation request.