The Most Scenic Views near Asheville
Disclaimer: We are not paid to promote any restaurant, hotel, activity, product, or attraction. All opinions are subjective and based on our personal experience. Your experience may be different.
Looking Glass Falls
This roadside waterfall stands just 50 feet tall, however, its’ 35 foot width and powerful water flow creates a truly spectacular sight. As expected, tourist crowds, as well as locals seeking a free swimming hole, flood here each weekend. While the insane traffic does take away from some of the natural beauty, it’s still worthy of a visit for anyone seeking a hassle-free, no-hike-required waterfall viewing. As for the name – water freezes and glistens in the sun, creating a looking glass appearance in the winter.
US-276 Brevard
Mingo Falls
One of the state’s highest waterfalls, ~200 foot Mingo Falls, is easily accessible via a simple quarter of a mile hike. Note: you will have to climb up a few staircases (161 steps to be exact). On the bright side, you’ll get in a decent leg workout, and the rest of the hike involves no more than a short trek through the woods. Mingo is located on the Cherokee Indian reservation, nearby the Cherokee Casino, Soco Falls, and numerous Smokie’s hikes, and thus, is a nice detour.
71 Big Cove Rd. Cherokee
Tom’s Creek Falls
Standing 60 feet tall in a shady, secluded section of the Pisgah National Forest, Tom’s Creek is a must-see for any waterfall lovers. 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.
1250 Huskins Branch Rd. Marion
Mt. Mitchell State Park
Mt. Mitchell stands strong as the highest peak east of the Mississippi at 6684 feet. Definitely put a visit to Mt Mitchell State Park on your WNC bucket list. It’s free, beautiful, and located less than an hour away – so what are you waiting for? Hop in your car, enjoy a leisurely cruise along the Parkway, and hike up to the observation deck (steep, but only 0.3 miles) for one of the grandest views in the area. Also check out the Balsam nature trail (.75 miles) featuring high altitude pine/spruce trees – it smells like Christmas anytime of the year!
2388 NC-128, Burnsville
Chimney Rock
Challenge yourself to an invigorating climb up 500 steps to the summit of Chimney Rock. If you love the gym Stairmaster workout, you’ll love this one (and add in fabulous scenery to boot). The views along the journey are just as exciting, so this is much more than a “single view” hike. This longtime favorite is a must for any new tourists. At the top, 360 view degree views of serene Lake Lure and the Hickory Nut Gorge await you. Note: An elevator is available as an alternative means of transport to the top.
743 Chimney Rock Park Rd. Chimney Rock
