The Blue Ridge Parkway spans 469 miles and attracts around 15 million visitors per year. Traversing along the ridge of the Blue Ridge Mountains, it has been described as the ‘best drive in America’ and a ‘must-do.’ It offers breathtaking scenery every twist and (hairpin) turn. Many of us know about the popular destinations: Grandfather Mountain, Linn Cove Viaduct, Mount Mitchell, Linville Falls, etc. While there’s plenty of beauty right in front of you, there’s also tons hiding behind overlooks and milepost markers.
1. At milepost 320.8 a short trail takes you to Chestoa View overlook, one of the best views in the Blue Ridge with an elevation of 4,090 feet.
4. Pounding Mill Overlook, while a jaw-dropping place for views, is also a great place to watch monarch butterflies migrate come early fall. Milepost 413.2
5. At Milepost 418.8 it might seem like you've stepped out of the Blue Ridge and into the midwest. Graveyard Fields lends far-off vibes and eclectic scenery.
7. Art lovers can visit three galleries and see the work of some of the finest painters, sculptors and potters in North Carolina at the Folk Art Center on milepost 382.
9. The Orchard at Altapass is a unique stop for fresh, crisp apples in the late summer-early fall as well as hayrides through the orchard, fresh jams and jellies and you might even catch some mountain music. Milepost 328.3
10. From milepost 305.2 a one mile roundtrip hike takes you to the unique Beacon Heights, a granite rock face perfect for sitting and taking in the panoramic views.
11. At milepost 334 you'll encounter a tiny town that seems to be built into the mountains. Little Switzerland is an eclectic stop off with dining and shops.
12. For an interesting name and stunning views, Devil's Courthouse can be accessed by a (strenuous) 0.5-mile hike that takes you to the 'courthouse.' Milepost 422.4
14. If Cowee Overlook is a bit too crowded, keep driving along the Blue Ridge until you reach Waterrock Knob at milepost 451.2, the sunsets here are just as stunning.
While I’ve had plenty of experience driving up and down the Blue Ridge, hiking and taking in a sunset or ten off an overlook, this wasn’t an easy list to curate. Thanks to Romantic Asheville for finding 50 amazing destinations and secrets hiding along one of the best drives in America! Which ones have you done? Have you discovered any secrets of your own?
While you’re in the mountains, take this hike to not one, but two beautiful waterfalls.
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