The Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina

Fall Color Along the Blue Ridge Parkway (NC) [1]

Along the crests of the southern Appalachians, the North Carolina section of the Blue Ridge Parkway reveals the true personality of this part of the nation. Following the Appalachian Mountain chain, you'll enjoy the endless views of the many parallel ranges, connected by the scattered hills. The shrubs and flowers that blossom throughout the spring and summer are a defining feature of the parkway and in the fall, the leaves burst in colors of red, yellow, and orange.

The Top of Chimney Rock [2]

As you follow the Blue Ridge to the eastern rampart of the Appalachians, take a moment to stop by Black Mountain, which maintains the feel of an early Appalachian town. The Black Mountains loom in the distance, providing a wonderful backdrop as you stroll through the streets of this early-settled Appalachian town. Step into the past at the Oconaluftee Indian Village and learn how this native civilization lived over 225 years ago, or visit Cherokee, home of the eastern band of Cherokee Indians. Climb up to the top of Chimney Rock to see the world spread out beneath you.

Misty Layers of Mountains (NC) [3]

At Stone Mountain State Park in northeastern North Carolina, walk along the banks of a river, or pull out a fishing pole to do some trout fishing. Here, rock and water combine to create this stunning landscape. For a higher elevation near the Virginia border, Cumberland Knob is a delightful spot to walk through fields and woodlands. At Craggy Gardens, choose one or all of the three trails offered here, and see why this area is famous for their late-blooming rhododendrons and other flowers. At the Great Smoky Mountains National Park at the southern end of the byway, view the smoke-like haze that gave these majestic mountains their name.

Linville Caverns invite you to explore the inside of Humpback Mountain. Spelunk through rooms full of color and fascinating forms. Or stay above ground and try to capture the cascading water of the Linville Falls on film. After viewing the scenery on foot, take a break on the Tweetsie Railroad, which will take you on a captivating trip over the mountains of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Rushing Stream in the Pisgah National Forest (NC) [4]

Scenery is not the only thing to view on this Parkway, as the area is rich with culture and history as well. The ancestors of the people that settled here centuries ago still thrive today, providing a memorable and enjoyable experience for anyone that visits this beautiful part of the country.