Blue Ridge Parkway
Craggy Gardens, NC

Craggy peaks uncharacteristic of the Appalachians are an attraction for visitors on the Blue Ridge Parkway. These mountains are not only beautiful in their terrain, but they are also beautiful in the things that grow there. Year-round, things are blooming and growing around the Craggy Gardens. Visitors will find rhododendrons at full bloom during June. Mid-month is typically peak bloom for the pink and purple Catawba varieties that cover much of the slopes here.

Hiking in the Craggy Gardens is definitely a temptation for travelers who stop here, and there are three trails to choose from. Hikers will find trailheads to Craggy Pinnacle Trail, the Craggy Gardens Self Guiding Trail, and the Mountains to the Sea Trail. Be sure to stay on designated trails. These slopes are home to rare and endangered species easily damaged by trampling. Once the hike is done, be sure to stop at one of the 86 picnic sites here. To visitors of every kind, the botanical aspects of the area combined with the unique terrain of the craggy area create a natural wonderland.