10 Must-See Blue Ridge Parkway Attractions near Asheville, NC
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6. Chimney Rock State Park
- Milepost 384.7 (located 20 miles from the Parkway)
- Address: Highway 64/74A Chimney Rock, NC 28720
- Distance from Asheville: 28 miles (~1 hour)
Fitness buffs will want to plan a daytrip to Chimney Rock to embark on the challenging 499 step climb up this ancient 500+ million year old monolith. For all your hard effort, you will be rewarded with an incredible vista of the Hickory Nut Gorge, a gorgeous 14 mile long canyon. There are numerous overlooks along the way where you can soak in the beauty of the Blue Ridge region. By far, this state park offers some of the most mesmerizing views in all of Western North Carolina.
While you are here, be sure to take the short stroll (about a mile) to Hickory Nut Falls. This waterfall stands a whopping 404 feet, making it the state’s 2nd tallest waterfall after 411 foot high Upper Whitewater Falls. It’s totally worth the little effort required to stand under this impressive falls and feel the rush of water. On a side, note, movie buffs should recognize this beauty from The Last of the Mohicans.
After your hike, take a stroll around Chimney Rock Village. Enjoy the bistros, boutique shops, and old timey general store. If you have the extra time, continue on a mere 20 miles to Lake Lure. This magnificent lake, “rated as one of the top 15 in the world,” by National Geographic, was used to film several scenes in Dirty Dancing.
7. Mountains-to-Sea Trail
- Milepost 382
- Distance from Asheville: 12 miles (~25 min)
An easy section of the super lengthy Mountains-to-Sea trail conveniently begins at the Folk Art Center. If you are already planning on visiting the art center, you can combine these 2 great attractions in a single visit. This long trail starts near the Smoky Mountains and continues on to the Outer Banks for a total distance of 1175 miles. A popular 71 mile long rugged section begins in Asheville, however, there are a number of shorter sections for anyone who wants to enjoy just a little bit of nature without going all out.
More avid hikers can continue on further to the Haw Creek overlook for spectacular mountain views. Additionally, another short section of this trail connects to a 1.5 mile loop trail at the Blue Ridge visitor center at Milepost 384.
8. North Carolina Arboretum
- Milepost 393.6 (located adjacent to the Parkway)
- Address: 100 Frederick Law Olmsted Way, Asheville, NC 28806
- Distance from Asheville: 10 miles (~20 min)
60 acres of well maintained gardens and 10 miles of rustic hiking trails come together at the beautiful North Carolina Arboretum. Anyone who appreciates hiking, nature, and flowers will want to plan a visit here. The extensive bonsai collection is one of the best you will find anywhere in the country. The collection includes 100 species of bonsai (50 exhibited at one time) of Asian, European, and American origin. Each is cultivated with a Southern Appalachian touch to reflect the region’s heritage.
On-site you will find 10 miles of hiking trails including a relaxing 1 mile nature stroll, a moderate 2 mile trek through the woods, as well as a strenuous 4 mile trail for the more adventurous hiker. Also the arboretum is a magnificent leaf peeping destination! After working up a sweat, take a break for a leisurely lunch at Bent Creek Bistro, where you can enjoy locally sourced foods amongst the natural surroundings.
9. Roaring Fork Falls
- Milepost: 344.1 (trailhead is 2.6 miles from the Parkway)
- Address: 208 Busick Work Center Rd, Burnsville, NC 28714
- Distance from Asheville: 47 miles (~1 hour and 15 min)
Roaring Fork is one of many gorgeous waterfalls easily accessible via the Blue Ridge Parkway. This one is really great for almost anyone as the hike is short with barely any elevation gain. A simple stroll of just over a half mile leads you to a 100 foot tall waterfall wonder. And surprisingly, this trail sees very little tourist traffic! The walk through the forest is so peaceful and tranquil, making this the perfect choice for anyone seeking a solitary adventure in the beautiful (but often very busy) Blue Ridge region.
10. Richard Balsam overlook/trail
- Milepost: 431.4
- Distance from Asheville: 49 miles (~1 hour)
One memorable photo stop along the Parkway is the Richard Balsam overlook, the highest point on the Parkway. There is a large sign here that you can take a quick photo next to. As the altitude is 6053 feet, there are lots of lovely pines, plus the temps are 15-20 degrees cooler. I love hiking here during Asheville’s hot and humid summer season. Also, you will want to hike the moderate 1.5 mile loop to the summit of Richard Balsam. The 6410 summit, is the Parkway’s highest.
This fresh trail meanders around a gorgeous high elevation forest with mossy spruce and fir trees. It’s so quiet, refreshing, and cool. The smell of pine makes it feel like Christmas anytime of the year. More likely than not, you will get to explore the natural beauty of the forest all to yourself. Note: trail access is closed in winter. Parking is located at the beautiful Haywood Jackson Overlook, just down the road from the Richard Balsam overlook. No need to stop at a restaurant as there is a scenic picnic area here overlooking the mountains.
More Recommended Parkway Stops
Looking Glass Falls: A mesmerizing, powerful 60 foot tall roadside waterfall. No hike required. Always crowded. Exit at Milepost 412.
Tom’s Creek Falls: Under visited, off-the-beaten path 80 foot tall double tiered waterfall accessible via an easy 1/2 mile hike. Exit at Milepost 317.4
Soco Falls: Short trail to 2 side by side waterfalls. Hidden gem on the Cherokee Indian reservation. Exit at Milepost 455.7.
Graveyard Fields: Popular 2.3 mile loop trail featuring mesmerizing mountains views, several waterfalls, and amazing fall color. Located at Milepost 418.8.
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