Craggy Gardens

Among the hundreds of scenic viewpoints in Western North Carolina, one of the most dramatic is at Craggy Gardens, just north of Asheville, North Carolina, on the Blue Ridge Parkway.  Stunning vistas of the Blue Ridge Mountains stretch far into Tennessee to the west and to mid-North Carolina to the east. These views can be enjoyed from the parking area near the Visitors' Center, or along nearby hiking trails. Picnic tables are popular with travelers who wish to take time to savor the scenery over lunch or snacks.  On clear nights, the area is also a perfect place for stargazing.

In early summer, Craggy Gardens becomes a mountain-sized bouquet when the rhododendron thickets on the upper heights cover the landscape in pink and purple. A favorite hiking trail, Craggy Pinnacle, leads hikers through a "tunnel" of rhododendron to the summit which offers 360-degree view.  This 1.5 mile round trip is an easy walk and a good way to stretch the legs.

Books, CDs, souvenirs, and a photographic display can be found in the Visitors' Center, and restrooms are on premises. There is no food concession.

Hours of Operation
Visitor center: May-Oct.
This section of the Parkway may be closed in winter due to inclement weather.

Admission Fees
None.
*Prices are subject to change without notice & from what is listed on this website.

Location
The Craggy Gardens Visitors' Center is at Blue Ridge Parkway milepost 364.6, with the picnic grounds at milepost 367.5 and the Craggy Pinnacle parking lot at milepost 364.1.  Craggy Gardens is 24 miles from Asheville.

Blue Ridge Parkway
199 Hemphill Knob Road
Asheville, NC 28803-8686

Visitor Information Recorded Message
828-298-0398; Headquarters 828-271-4779
www.nps.gov/blri/index.htm