Blue Ridge Parkway Asheville Audio Driving Tour

Key facts

What's included

Itinerary

1. Stop 1

   The tour begins just north of the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center in Asheville. The narration starts on the parkway heading north, not an actual stop.

   25 minutes

2. Stop 2

   Visit the Folk Art Center at Milepost 382 in Asheville, open year-round from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. It showcases Appalachian arts and crafts and houses the Southern Highland Craft Guild headquarters. You can also hike part of the Mountain-to-Sea Trail behind the center.

   15 minutes

3. Stop 3

   Tanbark Ridge is the first scenic overlook. Feel free to stop at any overlook along the route—just pause the app if you take an unplanned break to avoid missing directions.

   5 minutes

4. Stop 4

   Lane Pinnacle Overlook offers views of Lane Pinnacle, named after early settler Charles Lane. As you leave, the drive ascends into mountain fog and mist, creating a magical atmosphere.

   5 minutes

5. Stop 5

   Craggy Gardens Visitor Center is open seasonally from April 15 to November 13. Explore the rhododendron heath bald, hike the Craggy Gardens Trail, or climb Craggy Pinnacle for panoramic views. This spot is perfect for sunrise or sunset, weather permitting.

   25 minutes

6. Stop 6

   Mount Mitchell State Park features North Carolina’s highest peak at 6,684 feet. Walk to the summit, visit the museum, and enjoy trails through the spruce-fir forest. It’s a highlight of the tour.

   1.5 hours

7. Stop 7

   Green Knob Overlook was featured in 'The Last of the Mohicans.' It offers sweeping views and is a must-see stop.

   5 minutes

8. Stop 8

   This overlook features a gnarly dead tree, making for a fun photo backdrop and a unique sight among the scenic stops.

   5 minutes

9. Stop 9

   View the Black Mountain Range from below, offering a different perspective of the mountainscape.

   5 minutes

10. Stop 10

    Crabtree Falls Picnic Area provides scenic lunch spots with tables overlooking the waterfalls. It’s a favorite for a relaxing meal.

    20 minutes

11. Stop 11 Pass by

    Consider adding a hike to Crabtree Falls, a beautiful 70-foot waterfall with a moderate trail. Details available in the hiking guide.

12. Stop 12

    Little Switzerland offers lodging, shopping, and dining options. Emerald Village nearby features gold panning, gemstone digging, and tours—great for family fun.

    1 hour

13. Stop 13

    The Museum of North Carolina Minerals in Gillespie Gap showcases mineral exhibits and mining history. It hosts reenactments and features the Overmountain Men Victory Trail.

    30 minutes

14. Stop 14

    The Orchard at Altapass grows heirloom apples and preserves regional traditions. Enjoy live music, apple-picking, storytelling rides, and more.

    35 minutes

15. Stop 15

    North Cove Overlook provides views of the Orchards at Altapass, planted over a century ago by the railroad company.

    5 minutes

16. Stop 16

    This historic gap was part of the Overmountain Men’s route and later home to Civil War-era families, including the descendants of Amanda Heffner.

    5 minutes

17. Stop 17

    Another scenic overlook with a historical twist—built on a bear den site, offering both views and a story of local wildlife.

    5 minutes

18. Stop 18

    Linville Caverns reveal stunning limestone formations like stalactites and stalagmites. Guided tours last about 45 minutes and are a cool, underground adventure.

    45 minutes

19. Stop 19

    Linville Falls Visitor Center offers trail maps and access to the famous Linville Falls. Enjoy views of the cascading river and rugged gorge.

    20 minutes

20. Stop 20 Pass by

    Lost Cove Cliffs Overlook is known for the Brown Mountain Lights, though trees block much of the view here.

21. Stop 21

    Flat Rock Trail is a short, easy loop offering views of Grandfather Mountain, interesting geology, and peaceful scenery—perfect for a picnic or a quiet break.

    30 minutes

22. Stop 22 Pass by

    Grandfather Mountain features the Mile-high Swinging Bridge, wildlife exhibits, and scenic trails. It’s a popular highlight, especially for breathtaking views.

23. Stop 23 Pass by

    The Linn Cove Viaduct is an engineering marvel that gently curves around Grandfather Mountain. Walk the Tanawha Trail for a close-up view.

24. Stop 24

    Rough Ridge Lookout offers spectacular fall colors and panoramic views. A short hike leads to multiple viewpoints atop the ridge.

    1 hour

25. Stop 25 Pass by

    Price Lake is a scenic spot for walking, kayaking, and fishing. It’s the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

26. Stop 26

    Flat Top Manor at Moses H. Cone Memorial Park is a historic estate with carriage trails, a folk craft store, and beautiful grounds to explore.

    45 minutes

27. Stop 27 Pass by

    Bass Lake, near Flat Top Manor, offers tranquil views, a walking trail, and proximity to Blowing Rock’s shops and attractions, including The Blowing Rock itself.

Meeting point & pickup

Meet at the start point just north of the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center in Asheville.

The tour begins just north of the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center in Asheville, covering a 90-mile stretch between milepost 384 and 294. It’s available in both directions—south to north or north to south.

How to get there

Meet at the designated starting point in Asheville to begin your self-guided adventure.

Cancellation & confirmation