The Blue Ridge Parkway is America’s favorite drive — 469 miles of stunning mountain scenery connecting Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. And the stretch near Waynesville contains some of the Parkway’s absolute best stops, including its highest point. From Smoky Mountain Dream, you can reach the Parkway in just 20 minutes.
The Highest Point: Richland Balsam
At Milepost 431, Richland Balsam reaches 6,053 feet — the highest point on the entire Blue Ridge Parkway. There’s a self-guided nature trail (1.5 miles) through a fragile spruce-fir forest that feels more like Canada than North Carolina. These high-elevation forests are endangered ecosystems. The air is noticeably cooler here, even in summer.
Must-Stop Overlooks (South to North)
Waterrock Knob — Milepost 451.2
My number one recommendation for every guest. A short but steep 0.6-mile trail climbs to a 6,292-foot summit with 360-degree views of the Great Smokies, the Balsam Range, and on clear days, views into four states. The Parkway’s visitor information station here has exhibits about the mountains and a gift shop. Best at sunrise or sunset. Only 20 minutes from the cabin.
Browning Knob — Milepost 446
A pulloff that most people drive right past. On clear days the views are spectacular and you’ll often have it to yourself. Great spot for a quiet morning coffee.
Richland Balsam — Milepost 431
The highest point. Take the nature trail loop through the spruce-fir forest. Interpretive signs explain this unique ecosystem. Often 10-15 degrees cooler than the valley below.
Graveyard Fields Overlook — Milepost 418.8
The trailhead for one of the Parkway’s most popular hikes. Two waterfalls, wild blueberry fields (ripe late July), and a dramatic open valley. The area was named for the tree stumps that once dotted the landscape after a devastating fire in 1925, resembling headstones. Parking fills early on summer weekends — arrive before 9am.
Skinny Dip Falls — Milepost 417
A natural swimming hole and waterslide hidden in the forest. Short trail down to cascading pools. The name is just a name — keep your clothes on! Popular with families on hot summer days.
Devil’s Courthouse — Milepost 422.4
A steep 0.5-mile trail to a rock outcrop with jaw-dropping views. Cherokee legend says the devil holds court inside the mountain. The trail is paved but steep — worth every step for the panoramic views at the top.
Looking Glass Rock Overlook — Milepost 417
A dramatic view of the sheer granite face of Looking Glass Rock — one of the most recognizable landmarks in Western NC. The rock face reflects sunlight (hence the name) and freezes into a stunning ice wall in winter.
Seasonal Highlights
Spring (April–May)
Wildflowers bloom at lower elevations first, then move up the mountain. Flame azalea, rhododendron, and mountain laurel put on a show. Waterfalls are at peak flow from spring rains.
Summer (June–August)
Wild blueberries ripen at Graveyard Fields in late July. Clear days offer 50+ mile views. Afternoon thunderstorms are common at high elevations — plan your Parkway drive for morning.
Fall (September–November)
Peak fall color typically hits these high elevations in early-to-mid October — often 2-3 weeks before lower elevations. The Parkway is busiest during fall foliage season. See our fall foliage guide for timing details.
Winter (December–March)
Many sections of the Parkway close for winter weather. Check the road status before heading out. When open, winter offers crystal-clear views and solitude. Frozen waterfalls are spectacular.
Practical Tips
- Speed limit is 45 mph — and it should be. This road is for savoring, not rushing. Pull over at overlooks frequently.
- Check road closures — sections close for weather, especially in winter. Call (828) 298-0398 for the recorded road status message.
- Fill your gas tank — there are no gas stations on the Parkway itself.
- Pack a picnic — many overlooks have picnic tables. Grab supplies in Waynesville before heading up.
- No cell service — on most of the Parkway near Waynesville, you’ll have little to no cell signal. Download offline maps.
- Watch for wildlife — deer, bear, turkeys, and occasionally elk cross the Parkway. Drive carefully, especially at dawn and dusk.
The Blue Ridge Parkway is 20 minutes from Smoky Mountain Dream. I drive it regularly and can tell you which overlooks are clearest on any given day based on weather conditions. — Zachary, Your Host
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