Blue Ridge Parkway — 20 Things To Do!
The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of America’s most scenic drives, stretching 469 miles through the Appalachian Mountains from Virginia to North Carolina. Known for its breathtaking views, lush forests, and numerous hiking trails, this parkway is a favorite among nature lovers and road trip enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking to explore the vibrant fall foliage, enjoy spring wildflowers, we’ll showcase best things to do in Blue Ridge Parkway during your visit to North Carolina.
In this Article
1. Attractions in North Carolina
North Carolina Arboretum
The North Carolina Arboretum is known for its mix of native plants, art exhibits, and easy trails. The well-kept gardens, from the colorful Heritage Garden to the bonsai collection, each had something unique to offer. The clear labels made it easy to learn about different species. Walking through, the trails ranged from short walks to longer hikes, making it perfect for families. The art pieces blended well with the surroundings, adding an extra layer to the experience. The center provided information about the area’s ecology through interactive displays.
French Broad River
The French Broad River offers serene waters and lush greenery provide a calming atmosphere that’s hard to find elsewhere. Kayaking is perfect for both beginners and seasoned paddlers. Hiking trails along the river offer stunning views and a chance to see local wildlife up close. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a leisurely walk, each step brings new sights and sounds. Camping by the river is an experience like no other, letting you reconnect with nature. Fishing enthusiasts will enjoy the variety of fish, making it perfect for a relaxing day.
Biltmore Estate
The Biltmore Estate stands as a grand testament to history and luxury. Walking through its halls, you can’t help but be amazed by the craftsmanship. The gardens are a sight to behold, with vibrant colors and planned layouts. The views of the surrounding mountains, making it perfect for photography enthusiasts. The estate offers a range of activities like wine tasting at the winery, with wines made from grapes grown right there. For outdoor lovers, the estate has miles of trails for hiking and biking, each offering different views of rolling hills or serene rivers.
Linville Gorge
Linville Gorge, often called the “Grand Canyon of the East,” is located in the Blue Ridge Parkway, it’s a paradise for adventure seekers and nature lovers. The sheer size of the gorge, with its steep walls and the river cutting through the valley below, offers breathtaking views from various lookout points. Hiking in Linville Gorge is a must, with numerous trails offering unique perspectives of the landscape and diverse flora and fauna. The Linville Falls is a highlight you shouldn’t miss. For rock climbers, the rugged terrain provides thrilling challenges.
Craggy Gardens
The Craggy Gardens is famous for its rhododendrons, the area blooms with pink and purple flowers in late spring and early summer. Hiking trails like the Craggy Pinnacle Trail lead to panoramic views, with rocky outcrops adding a magical feel. The picnic area is perfect for a relaxed meal amid beautiful scenery. The gardens are home to rare plants and wildflowers, making every season a discovery. Camping spots provide a night under the stars with the sounds of nature. Craggy Gardens is a must-visit for hiking or camping, offering a peaceful escape from everyday life.
Mount Mitchell
Mount Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi River, is standing at 6,684 feet, it offers spectacular views and a unique experience for visitors. The drive up to the summit is an adventure, with winding roads and beautiful scenery. Once you reach the top, the panoramic views are breathtaking, stretching as far as the eye can see. The Balsam Nature Trail offers a short walk through the forest, while the Deep Gap Trail provides a rugged trek with rewarding views. The summit includes a museum and interpretive center, picnic areas, and camping sites.
Julian Price Memorial Park
The Julian Price Memorial Park is covering about 4,200 acres, it offers plenty of activities for nature lovers. The Boone Fork Trail is a favorite, offering a scenic 5 miles loop through forests, meadows, and streams. The park’s lake, Price Lake, is ideal for fishing or canoeing, with canoes available for rent. Camping is popular here, with well-maintained campsites and basic amenities. The park’s diverse habitats make it a great spot for birdwatching and photography, especially during the vibrant fall colors or spring blooms. Julian Price Park offers a mix of activities, making it a great spot.
Linville Falls
Linville Falls are known for their dramatic scenery and powerful water flow. Trails leading to the falls offer different vantage points, with the Upper Falls introducing the power of the falls and Chimney View and Erwin’s View offering dramatic views. Hiking in this area is a treat for nature lovers, with lush greenery and diverse plant life lining the trails. Photography enthusiasts will find stunning photo opportunities, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. Linville Falls is also a great spot for a picnic, where you can enjoy a meal while taking in the views.
Folk Art Center
The Folk Art Center is a fascinating place where you can discover the rich tradition of handmade crafts. The center showcases work from local artisans, featuring pottery, quilts, woodwork, and jewelry. Rotating exhibits and live demonstrations offer a glimpse into the creative process. The gift shop provides a chance to take home a unique piece. Educational programs, including workshops and classes, cater to all skill levels. Visitors can explore nearby trails after enjoying the exhibits. The center connects visitors with the cultural heritage of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Doughton Park
The Doughton Park is covering over 7,000 acres, the park offers hiking, with over 30 miles of trails like the Bluff Mountain Trail providing stunning views. Picnic areas with tables and grills are perfect for family meals, and the park also has maintained campgrounds for both tents and RVs. Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy spotting deer, turkeys, and even the occasional black bear, while birdwatching is popular year-round. Fishing in the park’s streams and ponds is a peaceful activity with cool mountain waters. The historic Brinegar Cabin offers a glimpse into early settler life.
Blowing Rock
The Blowing Rock is known for its stunning views and unique rock formation, the rock offers breathtaking panoramic views and fascinating legends of strong winds. Hiking the Glen Burney Trail takes you through forests and waterfalls, creating a peaceful experience. The charming downtown area has unique shops and local restaurants for shopping and dining. The observation deck at the Blowing Rock attraction provides stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. For a slower pace, the town’s parks and gardens, like Bass Lake Loop, offer a peaceful spot to enjoy the outdoors.
Grandfather Mountain
Grandfather Mountain is standing at 5,946 feet, offers stunning views, unique wildlife, and diverse plant life. The famous Mile High Swinging Bridge provides breathtaking views of valleys and peaks. Hiking trails vary in difficulty, with the Grandfather Trail offering challenging terrain and rewarding vistas. Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy the variety of animals, including black bears and deer. The Nature Museum and Wildlife Habitats offer educational exhibits and close encounters with animals. Picnic areas provide spots to relax and enjoy a meal with stunning views.
Chimney Rock State Park
The Chimney Rock State Park is named after the 315-foot granite monolith, Chimney Rock, which provides panoramic views. Reaching the top involves climbing steps or taking an elevator inside the mountain. Hiking trails suits to all skill levels, with the Hickory Nut Falls Trail leading to one of the tallest waterfalls in the region. Rock climbing spots in the park attract climbers of all skill levels, with guides available for beginners. Picnic areas with tables make it easy to enjoy a meal. The visitor center offers insights into the park’s history and geology through interactive exhibits.
Mount Mitchell State Park
Mount Mitchell State Park is standing tall at 6,684 feet, it boasts the highest peak east of the Mississippi River. The drive up is scenic, with winding roads and beautiful views. At the summit, the panoramic views are breathtaking, stretching as far as the eye can see. The Balsam Nature Trail is an easy walk through the forest, while the Deep Gap Trail offers a more challenging hike with rewarding views. The summit also features a museum, where you can learn about the area’s history and nature. Camping is available, with well-maintained sites offering basic amenities.
2. Attractions in Virginia
Mabry Mill
The Mabry Mill was built in the early 1900s, the old gristmill with its large waterwheel is truly picturesque. Walking around, you can learn about its history and see traditional crafts like blacksmithing and weaving. The surrounding scenery, with trees and flowers, adds to the charm. The on-site restaurant serves delicious local meals, and the picnic areas are perfect for a relaxing meal with a view. The preserved buildings and displays provide a glimpse into early 20th century life. Mabry Mill is great for families, with educational and enjoyable experiences.
Blue Ridge Music Center
The Blue Ridge Music Center is a fantastic place to experience North Carolina’s musical heritage. The center celebrates traditional music with live performances in an outdoor amphitheater, offering a perfect spot to enjoy local musicians. Inside, the Roots of American Music Museum provides an engaging look at the evolution of the region’s music, with displays of instruments, photos, and recordings. Educational programs teach visitors about traditional music. The gift shop offers souvenirs like CDs, books, and handmade crafts, supporting local artists.
Humpback Rocks
Humpback Rocks is a stunning rock formations offer amazing views, accessible via a short but steep hike. At the base, the living history farm showcases early settler life with original buildings and costumed interpreters demonstrating traditional crafts. The Visitor Center provides insights into the area’s history and natural features. Picnicking is popular, with designated areas to relax and enjoy a meal. Birdwatching enthusiasts will find a variety of species. The natural beauty and historical significance make it a unique and memorable destination.
Peaks of Otter
The Peaks of Otter in Blue Ridge is a beautiful place, with natural beauty and outdoor activities. The area features three prominent peaks: Sharp Top, Flat Top, and Harkening Hill. The hike up Sharp Top is challenging but offers stunning views. The Peaks of Otter Lodge by Abbott Lake provides picturesque views, and the lake is perfect for leisurely walks and fishing. The Johnson Farm offers a glimpse into early settler life with preserved buildings and exhibits. Wildlife is abundant, making it great for birdwatching. Picnicking is enjoyable with designated areas.
Skyline Drive
The Skyline Drive offering stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the surrounding landscape. With winding roads and beautiful vistas, it’s perfect for immersing yourself in nature. The drive provides numerous overlooks with unique perspectives, from rolling hills to dense forests. The fall season is especially breathtaking with vibrant colors, but each season brings its own beauty. Along the route, trails and picnic areas provide ideal spots to stretch your legs and enjoy a meal. Skyline Drive is about connecting with nature and enjoying the mountain drives.
How to Reach — Blue Ridge Parkway
Reaching the Blue Ridge Parkway is fairly straightforward and a journey worth taking. If you’re flying in, the nearest major airport is Asheville Regional Airport, which is well-connected to various cities. From the airport, it’s about a 45 minutes drive to the parkway. Another option is Charlotte Douglas International Airport, about 2 hours away. Renting a car is the best way to explore the parkway, as public transportation is limited. The main entry points to the parkway in North Carolina are near Asheville and Boone.
If you’re driving from Asheville, you can access the parkway via U.S. Highway 70 or Interstate 26. From Boone, take U.S. Highway 421. The drive itself is scenic, with winding roads and beautiful views. The parkway is easily accessible from several major highways, including I-81, I-77, and I-40. This makes it convenient for travelers coming from nearby states or regions. Along the parkway, you’ll find numerous overlooks, visitor centers, and entry points to hiking trails.
Local Transportation
Local transportation in the Blue Ridge Parkway is primarily centered around driving, as public transportation options are limited. Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore the parkway, giving you the freedom to stop at overlooks, visitor centers, and hiking trails at your own pace. The roads are well-maintained and offer stunning views, making the drive itself an enjoyable part of the experience.
If you prefer not to drive, guided tours are available, providing insightful commentary about the parkway’s history and natural features. These tours can be a great way to relax and let someone else handle the navigation while you take in the scenery. Motorcycles are another popular way to travel, offering a thrilling way to experience the twists and turns of the parkway. There are also several parking areas and rest stops where you can take a break and enjoy the views.
FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. What is the best time to visit the Blue Ridge Parkway?
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to experience. For vibrant fall colors, plan your trip in late September to early November. Spring, from April to June, offers beautiful wildflowers and mild weather. Summer is perfect for hiking and enjoying the outdoors, while winter, though colder, can be magical with occasional snow and fewer crowds.
2. What are some must-see attractions along the Blue Ridge Parkway?
Some of the must-see stops along the Blue Ridge Parkway include Mabry Mill at Milepost 176.1, a historic gristmill and sawmill. Linville Gorge offers breathtaking views and rugged landscapes. At Milepost 213, the Blue Ridge Music Center highlights the region’s musical heritage. Craggy Gardens is also a popular spot, known for its stunning vistas and beautiful rhododendron blooms.
3. How long does it take to drive the entire Blue Ridge Parkway?
Driving the entire length of the Blue Ridge Parkway without any stops would take about 8 to 10 hours. However, most visitors prefer to take their time, stopping at overlooks, hiking trails, and attractions along the way. Planning for at least a few days is recommended to fully enjoy the parkway.
4. Can I drive the Blue Ridge Parkway in an RV or camper?
Yes, RVs and campers are allowed on the Blue Ridge Parkway, but there are some considerations. The parkway has a few sections with low clearances and sharp curves, so it’s important to check the vehicle restrictions and plan your route accordingly. Many campgrounds along the parkway can accommodate RVs, but it’s best to make reservations in advance.
5. Are there guided tours available on the Blue Ridge Parkway?
Yes, there are guided tour options available for those who prefer a structured experience. Some local companies offer tours that include transportation, expert commentary, and planned stops. You can also find ranger-led programs and interpretive tours at various visitor centers along the parkway.
