The Blowing Rock
Named after the strong northwest winds here, this 3,000-foot-high cliff above Johns River Gorge is a very popular attraction. In autumn, the area is filled with captivating red, orange, and yellow hues. Tickets range from $0 to $7 (see the official website for details). You can also visit the gift shop to purchase souvenirs. Nearby, there is a place called Mystery Hill, where you can witness the fascinating phenomenon of water flowing uphill and balls rolling upwards (tickets $7-$8).
Rough Ridge
One of the most popular hiking trails on the Blue Ridge Parkway, offering stunning open views of Grandfather Mountain in just 1.3 miles. Medium to high difficulty.
Beacon Heights Overlook Trail
At the front of the parking lot, there is a 0.25-mile beginner hiking trail that offers beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountain. The trail ends at a large rock platform called Hawksbill, located 1,400 feet above Beacon Heights. From here, you can take in the panoramic views of Grandmother Mountain and Grandfather Mountain. In the fall, the entire Grandfather Mountain turns red, making it a perfect spot for leaf-peeping.
Linville Falls
North Carolina has 400 waterfalls, and this three-tiered waterfall is a famous one along the Blue Ridge Parkway. It is known for the Grand Canyon of the Appalachian Mountains, offering breathtaking views from dawn to dusk, especially in the fall when the foliage turns red. There are three hiking trails to reach the falls, each ranging from 1 to 1.6 miles one way.
Mount Mitchell State Park
The entrance to Mt. Mitchell State Park is about 5 miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway. The park includes a campground, restaurant, museum, and more. Mt. Mitchell is the highest peak in the Appalachian Mountains and the eastern United States, with an elevation of 6,684 feet. From the summit, you can overlook the Blue Ridge Mountains and the surrounding mist, offering breathtaking views.
Folk Art Center
Located just 5 minutes from Asheville, the Folk Art Center features a variety of traditional and contemporary crafts from the Appalachian region. It has three large exhibition areas, a library, and a craft shop, all of which are open to visitors for free.
Chimney Rock State Park
Voted by Blue Ridge County residents as the best place to view maple leaves and the most popular national park, this place is also known as the Hollywood of North Carolina, with many movies filmed here. Chimney Rock, surrounded by mountains, features a large protruding giant rock. From the base of the rock, you can climb up along wooden stairs. On the protruding rock, an American flag flutters in the wind, offering a 360-degree unobstructed view. Imagine how beautiful it is in the fall! Additionally, a seemingly precarious weathered rock on the cliff is called 'Devil’s Head.' From the top of the mountain, you can also enjoy the stunning 75-mile-long view of Lake Lure.
Biltmore Estate
The historic Biltmore Estate, built in 1888, is a must-stop attraction on the way to Asheville. You can spend a whole day touring the buildings and gardens, exploring the farm winery, and having an outdoor adventure at Antler Hill Village. You can also choose delicious food from 12 different restaurants.
Richland Balsam
The highest point on the Blue Ridge Parkway, standing at 6,053 feet above sea level, is certainly a spot for photos and check-ins.
