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The Blue Ridge Parkway, along with hundreds of waterfalls and hiking trails, lie just outside the city limits. Below are the most scenic viewpoints located within an hour and a half of the city. With so many gorgeous places, this list will help you narrow down the best-of-the-best the Western North Carolina region has to offer.

This super short hike of just under a mile and a half RT takes you up to a dramatic viewpoint of the Blue Ridge mountains. At feet, the views are quite stunning. As you will get to see 3 incredible waterfalls and a covered bridge all within a moderate 3 mile hike, Triple Falls is highly worth putting on your Western North Carolina bucket list.

Add in terrific fall foliage and the opportunity to see a movie filming location The Hunger Games was filmed at the base. This little visited overlook near the wonderful Richard Balsam summit trail ft offers the most dazzling mountain views. At this high of an altitude ft , the air is fresh, the temps cool, and the pine scenery really refreshing.

This treeless bald there are several in the Appalachians is quite unique as the mountain views are totally unobstructed. In fact, this hike feels more alpine in nature, and thus, a great choice if you are seeking something different after several waterfall hikes. The trek is steep, but relatively short, ending at a jaw dropping overlook where the views seem to go on forever. You may feel like singing The Sound of Music as you take in the awe inspiring sights all around you.

Catawba, a foot multi tiered waterfall, is located close to downtown Asheville just 25 min away , making it one of the more easily accessible waterfalls. This one is quite photogenic as it consists of so many beautiful cascades. Add in tremendous fall foliage, and you have a real winner here. At just 3 miles RT, this one is just challenging enough yet not exhausting for regular gym goers. As expected, tourist crowds, as well as locals seeking a free swimming hole, flood here each weekend.

As for the name — water freezes and glistens in the sun, creating a looking glass appearance in the winter. Note: you will have to climb up a few staircases steps to be exact. The unique aspect of this waterfall is the mica embedded rocks which glisten on a sunny day a mica mine once stood in the area. Today, these rocks add an extra dazzling touch to an already mesmerizing waterfall scene. Mitchell stands strong as the highest peak east of the Mississippi at feet.

Hop in your car, enjoy a leisurely cruise along the Parkway, and hike up to the observation deck steep, but only 0. Also check out the Balsam nature trail. Challenge yourself to an invigorating climb up steps to the summit of Chimney Rock. This longtime favorite is a must for any new tourists.

Note: An elevator is available as an alternative means of transport to the top. If you are planning a daytrip to Chimney Rock, you may want to add on a side trip to Lake Lure. It was even used to film several Dirty Dancing scenes. Enjoy a laid-back narrated cruise around the lake while your tour guide points on notable filming scenes including the famous stair dance and water lift scenes! Parking is limited and the lot fills up fast, so time your visit early in the morning.

An easy 10 minute walk leads you to an observing deck. During the winter months, you will enjoy views of a dazzling double waterfall.

The lush foliage in the spring and summer creates an equally stunning backdrop, although only the foot Upper Falls will be visible. Avoid the unmaintained trail to the base the rocks are very slippery! With the little effort required to see this beauty, you really cannot afford to miss out.

For a longer hike, continue on the uphill climb to Upper Falls not as impressive, although a nice workout in a woody setting. This 4 star resort offers sweeping views of the gorgeous Blue Ridge Mountains from almost every inch of the property.

Featuring a number of fabulous restaurants, gift shops, an on-site nature trail, as well as several bars, a daytrip here is definitely recommended. Start with a breakfast buffet in the gorgeous Blue Ridge dining room featuring beautiful floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the mountains. Book a treatment at the world class spa or enjoy a drink on the terrace. For even better vistas of this rustic beauty, challenge yourself to the small stair climb steps.

Despite the crowds, this is an exhilarating wonder of nature which is gorgeous enough to easily justify the hour plus drive from Asheville. Dazzling fall foliage makes the scene even more postcard perfect. Combine with a visit to beautiful Gorges State Park to justify the lengthy drive. Courthouse is a secluded gem in the Pisgah which sees barely any traffic. Parking is a bit of a hassle, requiring a drive down a bumpy Forest Service road, although worth it in the end for any waterfall lover.

The unique cove setting and natural pool creates an immensely picturesque waterfall, perhaps one of the most beautiful in the state. While the hike is short just 0. A beautiful sunrise and sunset destination, as well as a peaceful place for reflection, Jump Off is an absolute must see. Located in downtown Black Mountain, this quaint park offers tremendous views of the mountains. While the lakeside path is quite short at just over a half mile, the scenery is so gorgeous you may want to make a few loops.

If you only have time for only one, the 1. Be on the lookout for a rainbow on a sunny day. Bring a book, a chair, and maybe even stay for the sunset. Even better, the North Carolina Arboretum is located just a few miles down the road.

The arboretum features a world class bonsai garden and 10 miles of scenic maintained hiking trails. Dry Falls is the most impressive of the bunch at 75 feet. An easy paved walkway takes you right underneath the falls. The mist of the water is super refreshing on a hot summer day. On the route from Asheville, you will pass Bridal Veil falls, a 45 foot waterfall which you can walk underneath. A moderate hike of just over a mile and a half roundtrip takes you to this Parkway favorite.

Expect crowds on any given weekend as this hike is quite popular due to the easy accessibility. Be prepared for a moderate uphill challenge. Easy 1. This one is located within the Dupont State Forest and is an easy family-friendly alterative to Triple Falls. Note — this is a super busy trail, so arrive early to ensure parking and enjoy uninterrupted photos of this natural wonder.

Another fabulous overlook on the Parkway, this one is located in close proximity to Chestnut Cove. Thus, if Chestnut parking is filled up, this is a great alternative. Walnut features peaceful mountain views — overall a great place to soak in the fresh air and sunlight. Also, access to a portion of the Mountains-to-Sea trail begins here, so if you are seeking a convenient place to workout, skip the gym in favor of a nice workout in a woodsy setting.

Beat the crowds for the best experience — get up early, grab a coffee, and set off on a leisurely cruise from Asheville via the Parkway. Lots of scenic overlooks along the way, with the most dramatic arising via the Craggy mountains. This area is most well known for the colorful rhododendrons which bloom in early summer. Also on site is a small visitor center and picnicking facilities. Easily accessible waterfall located in an isolated section of the Pisgah.

Great choice for anyone seeking an easy hike in an uncrowded area. A roundtrip hike of just over a mile along an old logging road leads you to 25 foot tall Log Hollow Falls.

This is a beautiful wonder of nature despite the smaller size. Take the short side trail to the base for a better view. As this area is frequently skipped over by tourists favoring nearby destinations like Graveyard Fields, you will likely have the entirety of the trail to yourself.

The trail itself is nice and green with plenty of shade. A leisurely walk in the dense woods culminates with a very picturesque vista of the mountains. The smoothly flowing foot Roaring Fork waterfall is located within a quiet section of the Pisgah National Forest. The lengthy nature of this waterfall gives it a very different look than most others in the region. An easy trail of just over a half mile each way leads you to the base of the falls.

The way the water flows down the rock like a stream into a pool makes for a most alluring sight. Craggy Pinnacle This super short hike of just under a mile and a half RT takes you up to a dramatic viewpoint of the Blue Ridge mountains.

Milepost Triple Falls trail As you will get to see 3 incredible waterfalls and a covered bridge all within a moderate 3 mile hike, Triple Falls is highly worth putting on your Western North Carolina bucket list. Cedar Mountain Haywood Jackson overlook This little visited overlook near the wonderful Richard Balsam summit trail ft offers the most dazzling mountain views.

Milepost Catawba Falls Catawba, a foot multi tiered waterfall, is located close to downtown Asheville just 25 min away , making it one of the more easily accessible waterfalls. Marion Mt. Mitchell State Park Mt. Milepost Hwy Sapphire Courthouse Falls Courthouse is a secluded gem in the Pisgah which sees barely any traffic.

Hwy 64, Highlands Linville Falls A moderate hike of just over a mile and a half roundtrip takes you to this Parkway favorite. Milepost Wintergreen Falls Easy 1. These posts are similar to the one you are reading!

Scenic overlooks near asheville nc – scenic overlooks near asheville nc. Blue Ridge Parkway

Also check out the Balsam nature trail. Challenge yourself to an invigorating climb up steps to the summit of Chimney Rock.

This longtime favorite is a must for any new tourists. Note: An elevator is available as an alternative means of transport to the top. If you are planning a daytrip to Chimney Rock, you may want to add on a side trip to Lake Lure. It was even used to film several Dirty Dancing scenes. Enjoy a laid-back narrated cruise around the lake while your tour guide points on notable filming scenes including the famous stair dance and water lift scenes! Parking is limited and the lot fills up fast, so time your visit early in the morning.

An easy 10 minute walk leads you to an observing deck. During the winter months, you will enjoy views of a dazzling double waterfall. The lush foliage in the spring and summer creates an equally stunning backdrop, although only the foot Upper Falls will be visible. Avoid the unmaintained trail to the base the rocks are very slippery!

With the little effort required to see this beauty, you really cannot afford to miss out. For a longer hike, continue on the uphill climb to Upper Falls not as impressive, although a nice workout in a woody setting. This 4 star resort offers sweeping views of the gorgeous Blue Ridge Mountains from almost every inch of the property. Featuring a number of fabulous restaurants, gift shops, an on-site nature trail, as well as several bars, a daytrip here is definitely recommended.

Start with a breakfast buffet in the gorgeous Blue Ridge dining room featuring beautiful floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the mountains. Book a treatment at the world class spa or enjoy a drink on the terrace. For even better vistas of this rustic beauty, challenge yourself to the small stair climb steps.

Despite the crowds, this is an exhilarating wonder of nature which is gorgeous enough to easily justify the hour plus drive from Asheville. Dazzling fall foliage makes the scene even more postcard perfect. Combine with a visit to beautiful Gorges State Park to justify the lengthy drive. Courthouse is a secluded gem in the Pisgah which sees barely any traffic. Parking is a bit of a hassle, requiring a drive down a bumpy Forest Service road, although worth it in the end for any waterfall lover.

The unique cove setting and natural pool creates an immensely picturesque waterfall, perhaps one of the most beautiful in the state. While the hike is short just 0. A beautiful sunrise and sunset destination, as well as a peaceful place for reflection, Jump Off is an absolute must see.

Located in downtown Black Mountain, this quaint park offers tremendous views of the mountains. While the lakeside path is quite short at just over a half mile, the scenery is so gorgeous you may want to make a few loops. If you only have time for only one, the 1. Be on the lookout for a rainbow on a sunny day.

Bring a book, a chair, and maybe even stay for the sunset. Even better, the North Carolina Arboretum is located just a few miles down the road.

Or, continue on your cruise. Some of the best mountain views are located along this section of the Parkway. This overlook easily offers one of the most scenic vistas near Asheville. A super relaxing place to enjoy the incredible mountain scenery, Walnut Cove is also known to be one of the better sunset destinations in the region.

As a bonus, a pretty section of the Mountains-to-Sea trail is located here if you wish to get lost in nature. What to do in the vicinity: Take a look at the impressive bonsai collection at the North Carolina Arboretum.

Entrance is adjacent to the Parkway at Milepost The name for this stunning overlook comes from the chestnut trees which once made up a quarter of the Blue Ridge landscape. Today, you can enjoy a lovely mix of pines and mixed hardwoods, along with awe inspiring mountain scenery. It is also a popular birdwatching destination during the summer season.

What to do nearby: Hike a portion of the Shut In trail , a lengthy trail with nice woodsy views. Simply go out to your comfort level. The view of Doubletop Mountain were once obscured by the trees. The view is particularly gorgeous during the fall season, so plan a visit around peak foliage if you are able. Nevertheless, the views are still breathtaking anytime of the year. From here, you can see Deep River Creek which was once a Cherokee village.

The elevation is feet, thus making this a great cool oasis during the hot summer months. What to do in the vicinity: Take a 20 min drive over to downtown Waynesville. There are a number of restaurants, galleries, and shops to enjoy. This picturesque overlook is one of the closest to Asheville, being that it is located just 20 min out of the city.

Because this overlook faces East, it is a popular sunrise destination. The scenery is incredible no matter what time you visit with Lake Pinnacle and High Swan in the distance.

What to do in the vicinity: Continue on 5 miles to the impressive Folk Art Center MP featuring a craft gallery and museum exhibits. There is also a nice shady portion of the Mountains-to-Sea trail which begins here.

This mesmerizing overlook features a gorgeous view of the mountains and is even more spectacular during the colorful fall season. Additionally, there are a number of fabulous overlooks within a few miles. It once linked Bristol, Tennessee to Lynchburg, Virginia. The grassy valley to the west is dotted with pastoral farmhouses and barns.

Technically, Marbry Mill is not listed as an overlook, but a photo op here is such a classic among the Blue Ridge Parkway views that it really does require a stop. A short trail around the grounds reveals several more old buildings—a cabin, a blacksmith shop, a sawmill—that make the stop worthwhile. Aside from a nice, open area to have a picnic, the overlook also offers an old wooden observation tower once used by the Virginia Forest Service, split rail fencing, and long-distance panoramas.

The majority of the Blue Ridge Parkway weaves through Western North Carolina, traversing several national and state forests and parks. It also skirts exciting, progressive cities like Boone and Asheville , which are imbued with historical noteworthiness but have transformed into hubs of self-conscious modernism.

At its core, though, the Parkway passes through North Carolina with the Piedmont spreading out to the east and the Appalachian Mountains rising up to the west, providing unimaginably beautiful vistas and waterfalls.

Air Bellows Overlook was named for the robust winter winds that often rip through the area, but the majestic view is usually worth braving them. The overlook is a wonderful first stop for those entering North Carolina from the north, or a heart-thumping way to say goodbye before traveling into Virginia.

The overlook can provide a stunning photo of the lake, and Price Lake is about as lovely as any mountain lake can be. Beyond that, there are watersports— including fishing and kayaking, but not swimming— and several nice hiking trails to explore.

Beacon Heights Overlook is famous for its sunrises and sunsets, and boasts some big-time panoramas. Warning: Hiking a short, but steep trail Beacon Heights Trail is required to get the optimal views from Beacon Heights. Additionally, it is just south of the world famous engineering feat known as the Linn Cove Viaduct. Chestoa View Overlook is slightly hidden, and it takes a short hike to reach from the parking area. A short trail loop provides various panoramas of the mountains. This is also a good spot for an afternoon or early evening picnic.

Nestled among beautiful trees, especially rhododendrons, the trail circles the summit of the Great Craggy Mountains. Mitchell 6, ft , the highest point east of Mississippi River.

Scenic overlooks near asheville nc – scenic overlooks near asheville nc.Blue Ridge Parkway Overlooks near Asheville

 
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