The Most Scenic Blue Ridge Parkway Overlooks near Asheville

Walnut Cove overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway in fall

Asheville is an exciting base to plan your Blue Ridge Parkway adventures. First off, there are several Parkway entrances located throughout the city. Second, there is an abundance of scenic hikes, waterfalls, and states parks within an easy drive of the city. Some of the most incredible Parkway attractions (Linville Gorge Falls, Mt. Mitchell) lie in the Western North Carolina region.

The Parkway, which spans 469 miles in total from Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to the Great Smokies, is separated into several distinct sections. The gorgeous Pisgah (MP 339-469) region is located within close proximity to the city. While there are great hikes and waterfalls along this route, there are also plenty of scenic overlooks for anyone looking to enjoy a laid-back, leisurely cruise. After living in the region for several years, I have determined my top 10 scenic overlooks, all located within an hour drive of Asheville. I would definitely put these on your bucket list first!

1. Craggy Gardens

Milepost 364.4 – 367.7

Distance from Asheville: 40min

While this is one of the more heavily trafficked overlooks near Asheville, it also happens to be one of the most mesmerizing viewpoints along the Parkway. The beautiful “Craggies,” as they are known for their jagged terrain, create quite a statement. The highest point, Craggy Dome, soars 6105 feet. This overlook features breathtaking views of the mountains, plus a visitors center, easy access to hiking trails, and a large picnicking area. Tourists come from all over in June to marvel at the colorful rhododendrons. Fall leaf peeping season, while the busiest, is also the most stunning.

Hiking Craggy Pinnacle in the Blue Ridge mountains — Hiking Craggy Pinnacle

Icy winter views at Craggy Gardens along the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina — Early winter at Craggy Gardens

Craggy Gardens overlook along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Western North Carolina — Lush springtime greenery

What to do in the vicinity: Enjoy a scenic picnic (MP 367), Hike to the breathtaking summit of Craggy Pinnacle (MP 367).

2. Glassmine Falls

Milepost 361.2

Distance from Asheville: 50 min

Glassmine Falls overlook along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Western North Carolina

This hidden gem lies just a few miles north of Craggy Gardens. Thus, you can conveniently combine the 2 for a great little daytrip. This overlook is particularly memorable as you can see a beautiful 800 foot waterfall in the distance. While the falls appear quite small at such a far distance, it’s still a mesmerizing sight (bring binoculars for a better view). The stunning mountain backdrop and lush greenery simply adds to the appeal.

Note: The water flow will be strongest during the spring-summer season, although you can see the falls better when the leaves are off the trees (late fall).

What to do in the vicinity: Visit beautiful Mt. Mitchell State Park, home to the highest peak (6684 ft) east of the Mississippi. Mt. Mitchell is located 2.5 miles north of the Parkway via MP 355.

Gorgeous mountain scenery at Mt. Mitchell State Park in Western North Carolina — Gorgeous overlook at Mt. Mitchell

3. Sleepy Gap

Milepost 397.3

Distance from Asheville: 25 min

Sleepy Gap overlook along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Western North Carolina

While technically a parking lot for a hiking trail, rather than an overlook, the views are nevertheless incredible. On most days, there is no one around so you can enjoy the enchanting mountain view all to yourself. Also, a 1.8 mile long section of the Mountains-to-Sea trail begins here, so you can get in a decent hike if you are up for it. Overall, this overlook is a nice quick stop prior to hiking, or just one of many scenic stops on a Blue Ridge sightseeing adventure.

What to do in the vicinity: Hike the Mountains to Sea trail. Or, continue on your cruise. Some of the best mountain views are located along this section of the Parkway.

4. Walnut Cove

Milepost 396. 4

Distance from Asheville: 20 min

Walnut Cove overlook along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Western North Carolina

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. This portion of the Parkway is not as heavily trafficked, so it’s a nice relaxing drive. 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 393.

Nature trail at the North Carolina Arboretum in Asheville, North Carolina — A relaxing nature trail at the arboretum

Bonsai at the North Carolina Arboretum in Asheville, North Carolina — Just a few of the more than 50 bonsai on display

5. Chestnut Cove

Milepost 398.3

Distance from Asheville: 25 min

Chestnut Cove overlook along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Western North Carolina

The name for this stunning overlook comes from the chestnut trees which once made up a quarter of the Blue Ridge landscape. Unfortunately, a fungus destroyed most of these trees by the late 1930’s. Today, you can enjoy a lovely mix of pines and mixed hardwoods, along with awe inspiring mountain scenery. From this overlook, you can see Ball Mountain, Little Pisgah, and Bearwallow. It is also a popular birdwatching destination during the summer season. Chestnut Cove is a quiet place with spectacular scenery – it’s not unusual to see visitors reading or taking in a sunset.