Best of Transylvania County: A Blue Ridge Pkwy Adventure

Nestled within the breathtaking landscapes of Transylvania County, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers an unforgettable journey through some of North Carolina's most scenic vistas. Known as "America’s Favorite Drive," the Parkway's 24-mile stretch through this region is a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike.

Gateway to Adventure

Access the Parkway via two convenient routes in Transylvania County. Travel along NC 215, winding through the charming communities of Balsam Grove and Rosman, or take US 276 through the lush Pisgah National Forest. Along this route, marvel at iconic landmarks like Looking Glass Falls, Sliding Rock, and the Cradle of Forestry—the birthplace of forest conservation.

Once you’ve reached the top, we have a few favorite places on the Blue Ridge Parkway to stop, explore, and take in the views.

        
View from the Pisgah Inn

Best Spot for a Picnic

You’ll find picnic tables at several of the overlooks along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Transylvania County. One of our favorites is Mt. Pisgah at Milepost 408.6 with 50 picnic sites. In this area, you’ll also find a small grocery store and restrooms (open seasonally) with nearby trails.

Spectacular Views

There are twelve Blue Ridge Parkway overlooks in Transylvania County between Mileposts 406.9 and 423.5 with incredible views. Here are a few of our favorites:

Pounding Mill Overlook (Milepost 413.2)      
Our top spot to watch the monarch butterflies as they migrate to Mexico in early fall.

Looking Glass Rock Overlook (Milepost 417)  
Named for light reflecting brilliantly when water and ice are on the rock's granite surface.       

Devil’s Courthouse Overlook (Milepost 422.4)  
A short but strenuous hike offers a beautiful panoramic mountain view.

Funnel Top (Milepost 409.3) 
A must-see sunrise spot with stunning 180-degree views, including Funnel Top Mountain.

Cradle of Forestry Overlook (Milepost 411) 
Catch the sunrise with a panoramic view of the mountains and Pisgah National Forest below.

Fryingpan Mountain Lookout Tower (Near Milepost 408.5) 
The perfect sunset spot! Park at the pull-off for Forest Service Road 450. Take the 1.5-mile hike (out and back) to this decommissioned fire tower with views of Cold Mountain and Shining Rock Wilderness. 

Explore the Trails 

Hiking trails branch off the Blue Ridge Parkway at multiple, easy-to-access points. Here are three of our favorite must-try hikes:

Graveyard Fields Loop Trail (Milepost 418.8)         
This popular trail starts from the parking area and winds 3.2 miles over boardwalks, through a ravine, to high meadows, and past two waterfalls.

Devil’s Courthouse (Milepost 422.4)         
This hike is a 0.8-mile roundtrip walk with panoramic views from a jagged and dramatic rock face. 

Buck Spring Trail (Milepost 407.6)         
This short hike takes you to the former site of George Vanderbilt’s Buck Spring Lodge. Pull in at the Mt. Pisgah Overlook parking area. From this spot, you can also trek to the summit of Mt. Pisgah (2.4 miles out and back).

Leave It Better

As you explore the natural beauty of Transylvania County, remember to leave it better than you found it. Adhere to these principles: prepare for your journey, protect habitats, respect wildlife, dispose of waste properly, leave what you find, preserve the environment, and be considerate of others. 

Explore Transylvania County

Whether you're an adventurer at heart or new to exploring, Transylvania County offers an unparalleled experience. See More Things to Do in Brevard and Transylvania County.