The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of America's greatest Byways. It spans 469 miles from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Western North Carolina to the Shenandoah National Park in Northern Virginia. The North Carolina section is known for extensive grand views, and we wanted to share our top 5!
No.5
The Linville Viaduct
You might think this is a very low rating; for some, it would be their top spot. However, the high volume of crowds from mid-September to the end of fall is what dropped it in our rating. The crowds here can be unbearable sometimes, and finding a parking spot can be difficult.
The Linville Viaduct deserves a top 5 rating despite the crowds. The views here are just amazing. This location offers an extensive view of the Blue Ridge Mountains, including a good view of Table Rock Mountain and Hawksbill Mountain.
No. 4
The Three Knobs Overlook
The Three Knobs Overlook faces the largest Mountain east of the Mississippi River, Mount Mitchell. It also has a beautiful view leading into the valley. This overlook typically is overlooked, and is an excellent spot for those that like haveing a place to themselves. From this location, you can take in a sunset and watch the sun dip behind that tall sleeping giant.
No.3
Waterrock Knob
Waterrock Knob is undoubtedly one of the best views along the entirety of the Blue Ridge Parkway itself. It faces the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Cherokee, N.C. You can even see the casino in the valley below. This area does get crowded. However, it has plenty of parking to accommodate this, along with having picnic tables and restrooms. You can see Autumn from North Carolina to Tennessee, as Clingma's Dome, now known as Kuwohi, is easily visible.
No. 2
Pounding Mill Overlook
The Pounding Mill Overlook offers views in three directions. It includes a stunning view of Looking Glass Rock, a prominent feature in the Blue Ridge Mountains landscape. From here, you can view the Pisgah National Forest disappear into the many mountains ahead. The Pounding Mill Overlook is an excellent spot to take in a sunrise and peer out into one of North Carolina's most majestic views.
No. 1
The Cowee Mountain Overlook
The Cowee Mountain Overlook is the grandest view of the Appalachian landscape, with an incredible 180-degree view. From this viewpoint, you will see what appears to be a sea of mountains, with one ridge after another appearing like waves of an ocean. It can get moderately crowded here. However, there is plenty of parking. From here, you can see every shade of Autumn, and if you have the time, we highly recommend watching a sunset from here.
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