10 Must-See Blue Ridge Parkway Attractions near Asheville, NC

Known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” tourists flock from all over the US to enjoy the immense beauty of this 469 mile long drive. According to the NPS, the Blue Ridge Parkway is the most visited park in the country with over 16 million visitors per year! The scenic road stretches from the Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to the Great Smoky Mountains. However, it’s much more than a simple drive. Along the way, you will find numerous picturesque overlooks of the dramatic Blue Ridge mountains, as well as many state parks, historical attractions, and museums.

Asheville is the perfect starting point for exploring the Parkway. This small urban hub is home to a thriving foodie, beer, and art scene, and thus, there are plenty of things to do in town after a long day on the road.

Below are my favorite Blue Ridge Parkway attractions located within a 1.5 hour drive of Asheville. Living in the area has given me the opportunity to explore nearly every weekend, and thus, this guide contains the top waterfalls, hiking trails, and overlooks to put high on your bucket list.

1. Linville Falls

• Milepost 316
• Distance from Asheville: 55 miles (~1 hour)

One of the most spectacular waterfalls in Western North Carolina is conveniently located within close proximity to Asheville on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Linville Falls, an impressive 3 tiered, 150 foot waterfall, is located within the Linville Gorge, a beautiful wilderness area which is often referred to as “the Grand Canyon of the Southeast.” The Cherokees called the gorge “the river of many cliffs.” Linville Gorge is one of the first designated wilderness areas in the country. Although it is far from the tallest falls in the region, the dense trees which surround the falls create a picture-perfect setting for photography.

The hike is just 1.5 miles roundtrip and moderate in intensity with several steep sections. Beautiful oak, birch, and hemlock trees provide plenty of lovely greenery along the way. There are 4 breathtaking overlooks of the gorge area, the most impressive offering a fabulous view of the upper falls. Overall, this hike is the most spectacular on the Blue Ridge Parkway. It’s rustic, beautiful, and dazzling during leaf peeping season.

2. Mt. Mitchell State Park

• Milepost 355.4 (Located 2.5 miles off the Parkway)
• Address: 2388 State Hwy 128 Burnsville, NC 28714
• Distance from Asheville: 34 miles (~1 hour)

Visiting Mount Mitchell State Park should be high on your WNC bucket list. This dramatic mountain stands 6684 feet making it the highest point east of the Mississippi. The breathtaking mountain can be viewed via the View Mt. Mitchell overlook at Milepost 349.9. However, it’s worth the short detour to explore the state park. Along with an observing area providing a bird’s eye view of the Black Mountain range, there’s a fantastic shady picnicking area here, plus several hiking trails ranging in intensity.

Because of the high altitude, it’s always much cooler up here. As you stroll along the Balsam nature trail (an easy, enjoyable 3/4 mile trail), the fresh scent of Christmas is in the air thanks to the presence of plenty of Fraser fir trees. Interpretative signs guide you along the native flora and fauna. Be on the lookout for black bears as well as many species of birds typically found in northern climates (i.e. the winter wren). Overall, Mt. Mitchell is a fabulous place to spend the day in uninterrupted natural surroundings.

3. Grandfather Mountain

• Milepost 305 (Located 1 mile off the Parkway)
• Address: 2050 Blowing Rock Highway, Linville, NC 28646
• Distance from Asheville: 71 miles (~1.5 hours-2 hours)

From the famous Mile High swinging bridge, visitors at Grandfather Mountain can enjoy dramatic panoramic views of the Blue Ridge mountains. The bridge dates back to 1952 and still stands strong as America’s highest suspension footbridge. While a walk along the bridge is the most popular thing to do here, hiking, picnicking, and scenic drives can all be incorporated into your itinerary for a full day out. Trails range from easy nature paths to strenuous backcountry adventures. If you wish to skip the park attractions, you can opt to hike into the park for free via 2 off mountain trailheads.

The 2 mile drive to the summit is very scenic with numerous overlooks and picnicking spots along the way. Consider packing a lunch to enjoy amongst the woodsy surroundings. Also be sure to stop by the nature museum which features exhibits on native birds, wildlife, as well as the history of the region. Furthermore, a series of wildlife habits feature native animals in settings resembling their natural habitat in the wild.

4. Craggy Gardens

• Milepost 364
• Distance from Asheville: 20 miles (~40 min)

One of the most popular tourist destinations near Asheville is the Craggy Gardens overlook. The Craggies are a beautiful subrange of the Blue Ridge mountains located at 6105 ft. Because this Parkway stop is located just a few miles south of Mt. Mitchell, you can easily combine the 2 attractions for a nice half day out. Tourists flood the area in early summer to enjoy the colorful rhododendrons which bloom in the area. Along with a scenic overlook, there is a visitor center, hiking trails, and a large picnicking area.

Consider hiking the short, but steep Craggy Pinnacle trail for a dazzling view of the mountains. A short trek of just 20 min will enable you to view the lovely rhododendrons, plus enjoy a bird’s eye view of the dramatic scenery. On a side note, the name “Craggy” comes from the jagged look of the terrain. Overall, Craggy Gardens is a great daytrip destination from Asheville, with plenty of relaxing things to do for the nature lover. Layer up – it can get pretty cold this high up anytime of the year!

5. Folk Art Center/Mountains-to-Sea trail

• Milepost 382
• Distance from Asheville: 12 miles (~25 min)

Anyone interested in exploring Southern Appalachia’s rich arts and crafts history will want to plan a trip to the Folk Art Center. There are several interesting exhibits to browse through here including a permanent exhibit highlighting art from AD 1000 to today. Also notable – The Allanstand Craft Stand is the oldest craft stand in the US, having been established in 1895. Lots of unique pottery pieces, glass blown art, and much more to explore here. More than 800 crafters from 9 Southeastern states are represented by the Southern Highland Craft Guild.

Artisans are on site demonstrating their work from 10am-4pm, March-December. This is the most popular stop along The Parkway, so expect crowds during high tourist season (summer and fall). Note: There is a hiking trail on-site right next to the art center. Combine the 2 for a nice morning out.