Blue Ridge Parkway Asheville Audio Driving Tour

What's included

What you'll see and do

1. Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center

   While not an actual stop on the tour, the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center is the official starting point. Narration will begin on the parkway heading north immediately after the visitor center.

   25 minutes here

2. The Folk Art Center (Southern Highland Craft Guild)

   The Folk Art Center at Milepost 382 in Asheville is open year-round from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The center showcases Appalachian arts and crafts in its Folk Art Gallery and also houses the headquarters of the Southern Highland Craft Guild. A gift shop sells handmade Appalachian crafts. You can hike a section of the Mountain-to-Sea Trail behind the center.

   15 minutes here

3. Tanbark Ridge is the first scenic overlook we’ll be stopping at. There are many more on this section of the parkway, and you are free to stop at any or all of them–even if they aren’t mentioned on the tour. Just a note–if you do decide to stop at a different overlook, just pause the app and resume when finished. Otherwise, it will keep talking, and you may miss the next set of directions!

   5 minutes here

4. The views are just starting, and they get even better as we go along! Lane Pinnacle Overlook features a view of Lane Pinnacle, a small peak named after Charles Lane, an early settler who built an iron mine on this land. As you leave this overlook, you’ll find yourself gradually driving higher and higher into the mountains where the fog and mist can sometimes blanket the road making for a magical ride.

   5 minutes here

5. The Craggy Gardens Visitor Center is open seasonally from April 15 to November 13 and highlights the unique ecology of the rhododendron heath bald. The center's daily hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. after October 31. After visiting the center, take the Craggy Gardens Trail for about 10 minutes and hang a left at the trail shelter to enter the secluded rhododendron heath bald. This beautiful mountaintop meadow offers stunning views, especially in the spring when the rhododendrons are in full bloom. Another option is to hike up to the top of Craggy Pinnacle for panoramic views of the valley. It’s one of the most spectacular spots to catch a sunrise or sunset. This section of the parkway is often blanketed in fog and can sometimes be closed due to inclement weather. Check our hiking guide for more details.

   25 minutes here

6. Mount Mitchell State Park

   Located in the high-elevation forests of the Black Mountains, Mount Mitchell State Park is really one of the must-see stops on this tour. It’s free to enter, and the short walk up to the 6,684-foot summit might just be the highlight of your trip. In addition to several hiking trails, you’ll find a museum, gift shop, restrooms, a seasonal restaurant, concessions, and a visitor center. To get the fullest experience, visit both the observation deck on the summit for out-of-this-world views as well as the Balsam Nature Trail for a walk through the magical spruce-fir forest.

   90 minutes here

7. The sweeping views from Green Knob Overlook were featured in the opening scene of the 1992 movie The Last of the Mohicans. It’s one of the overlooks you definitely won’t want to miss!

   5 minutes here

8. The main attraction at this stop is the gnarly dead tree. This unusual landmark sets this overlook apart from all the others–not to mention it makes a great photo backdrop!

   5 minutes here

9. This time, instead of sweeping views of the valley from above–you’ll get a stunning view of the mountains from below. The entire Black Mountain Range coming right at you!

   5 minutes here

10. Just for the record, even if you aren’t hungry, this place is worth a drive-through. Crabtree Falls Picnic Area has to be one of the most scenic places to enjoy lunch on the entire parkway. Each table has a view. Bon Appetit!

    20 minutes here

11. If you have the time and energy to tackle one of the longer hikes on this tour, consider adding Crabtree Falls to your itinerary. This beautiful 70-foot cascading waterfall is a photographer’s delight and a popular destination for hikers. The moderate three-mile loop trail includes steep sections with rocks and roots. There’s also a slightly shorter in-and-out option. See the hiking guide for detailed information.

    Pass by without stopping

12. Little Switzerland

    One of the closest towns to the parkway, the Alpine-themed village of Little Switzerland offers lodging, shopping, and food. If you have the time and budget, consider checking out Emerald Village. This fun tourist attraction offers family-friendly mining activities where the young and young-at-heart can: pan for gold Dig for real gemstones tour extensive exhibits in their 10-story Discovery Mill or tour a historic mine Warning--prospecting for gold and gems requires some digging in the dirt, so pack an extra outfit and bring along Ziploc bags for treasures. Open daily between April 1 and October 31. Check their website for seasonal hours and separate activity fees.

    60 minutes here

13. Museum of North Carolina Minerals

    The Museum of North Carolina Minerals, located in the heart of the Spruce Pine Mining District, is home to interactive exhibits about North Carolina minerals and their mining history. It's open year-round from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closed for lunch between 1 p.m. and 2 p.m.). The museum sits in Gillespie Gap where the Overmountain Men crossed the mountains during the Revolutionary War on their way to the Battle of King's Mountain. In mid-September, the museum hosts a re-enactment of the Overmountain Men. You can access the Overmountain Men Victory Trail behind the building.

    30 minutes here

14. The Orchard At Altapass

    Not only does the Orchard at Altapass pride itself on growing the best heirloom apples possible, but it also works hard to preserve the regional traditions and culture of the land. Open Wednesdays through Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. through October 30, the orchard hosts educational and entertaining activities for all ages. Activities include: Live Old Time Music Apple picking The Clinchfield Model Railway walking trails "Hey" Rides--a storytelling ride through the orchard that brings to life the history of the Overmountain Men during the American Revolution and the fascinating life of early settler Charles McKinney. Wrap up your visit at the General Store with a serving of fresh, hot apple pie alamode. Check out their website for seasonal hours.

    35 minutes here

15. From North Cove Overlook, you’ll be able to view the Orchards at Altapass in the distance. Surprisingly, the orchards were planted over a hundred years ago–not by farmers–but by the Clinchfield Railroad company whose rails once crossed the Blue Ridge Mountains right here at McKinney Gap.

    5 minutes here

16. This is another place where the Overmountain Men passed on their way to the Battle of King’s Mountain during the Revolutionary War. Later in history, a single mother named Amanda Heffner managed her family farm here during the dangerous days of the Civil War. Her descendants still live in this gap which was named after her.

    5 minutes here

17. In addition to more stunning views, this overlook has a “beary” interesting history. The overlook was built on a spot along the mountain where black bears once had a den.

    5 minutes here · Admission not included

18. Linville Caverns reveal the natural wonders hidden deep inside Humpback Mountain. Guided cave tours showcase fascinating limestone features like stalactites, stalagmites, the "Ballroom" and a frozen waterfall. The moderately priced half-hour tours run every 10 minutes and are first-come, first-served. The temperature remains steady at 52 degrees, so bring a jacket or sweater. The caverns are closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and are only open on weekends during the winter. Check their website for seasonal hours and fees, and call ahead to check how busy they are. If it’s busy, consider purchasing tickets for a later tour, doing the hike to Linville Falls first, then returning to the Caverns afterward.

    45 minutes here · Admission not included

19. The Linville Falls Visitor Center features a small gift shop, restrooms, maps, and hiking information for the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area. Trails for iconic Linville Falls begin behind the visitor center. Linville Falls, one of the most popular waterfalls on the Blue Ridge Parkway, is a definite must-see. Bring your camera to capture the beauty of the Linville River as it cascades through two spectacular falls before descending through a beautiful and rugged gorge. Different hiking trails lead to multiple viewpoints of both the upper and lower falls. Wide and well-maintained, the one-mile round trip trail to the Upper Falls is a relatively short, easy hike with a big payoff. Climb down to the rocks and get a close-up view of the falls. (Swimming is not allowed, however.) You can catch a view of the spectacular Lower Falls by walking just a bit further to Chimney View or Erwin's View.

    20 minutes here

20. Lost Cove Cliffs Overlook is one of three places people come to view the mysterious Brown Mountain Lights. Unfortunately, tall trees block most of the view.

    Pass by without stopping

21. Flat Rock Trail

    Off the beaten path, Flat Rock Trail is one of the parkway's hidden gems. This short, easy 0.6-mile loop trail offers views of interesting trees, plants, and fascinating geological features called "bathtubs." Once you reach the top, you'll see that Flat Rock lives up to its name. There are numerous large, flat rocks made of quartzite from which you can enjoy sweeping panoramic views of Grandfather Mountain and Linville Valley below. Less crowded than other trails, Flat Rock is the perfect place to bring a picnic, sit on a rock, and enjoy the peaceful setting. The trailhead begins in the parking area. Stay to the left and hike the path clockwise, following the yellow arrows once you get to the top to complete the loop.

    30 minutes here

22. Grandfather Mountain is a must-see tourist destination that showcases all the beauty and splendor of Grandfather Mountain. Cross the breathtaking Mile-high Swinging Bridge for one of the most spectacular views on the parkway. Explore easy trails through peaceful forests or more difficult climbs on rugged peaks. (Note: Grandfather Mountain’s challenging hikes should only be attempted by experienced hikers with the proper gear.) Visit the interactive exhibits in the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery and see cougars, elk bald eagles river otters black bears ...up close. And drive the famous "Forrest Gump Curve" featured in the iconic American movie. Admission is steep, but the experience is priceless. Online reservations are highly recommended as space is limited and slots fill quickly during the summer. Check their website for fees and seasonal hours.

    Pass by without stopping

23. Linn Cove Viaduct

    Probably the most photographed structure on the parkway, the Linn Cove Viaduct is an engineering marvel. The complicated bridge appears to float gently around Grandfather Mountain on tall concrete piers. Its design and construction preserve the fragile habitat of Grandfather Mountain while showcasing its beauty. Completed in 1987, the viaduct was the final segment of the Blue Ridge Parkway to be built. While the adjacent Linn Cove Visitor Center is no longer open, you can still access trails from the parking lot. A walk along the Tanawha Trail will take you under the viaduct for a close-up view.

    Pass by without stopping

24. Rough Ridge Lookout

    Rough Ridge Lookout on the Tanawha Trail is one of the top places to view fall colors on the parkway. Just a short 10-minute hike to a wooden boardwalk offers multiple viewpoints the higher up you go. Even if you miss the fall colors, Rough Ridge Lookout still has plenty to offer including a view of the entire Linn Cove Viaduct and Grandfather Mountain plus lots of large boulders along the trail that make great spots to sit and soak in the breathtaking views.

    60 minutes here

25. Price Lake is the jewel of Julian Price Memorial Park. Although swimming isn't allowed, you can stroll along the lovely walking path that circles the lake or paddle around in a canoe or kayak. Fishing is also allowed. Boats can be rented at Price Lake Boat Rentals past the campground. There are no picnic tables or restrooms right at the lake, but they can be accessed at the nearby Price Lake Picnic Area.

    Pass by without stopping

Where it starts and ends

Before you book

Cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Languages

en

Ticket

Mobile Only

Runs on

Every day

Group size

Up to 15 travelers per booking

Operated by

Shaka Guide Apps

Know before you go

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• TOUR IMPORTANT NOTE: Be sure to check current road closures before your trip, as sections of the Blue Ridge Parkway may be closed due to weather, maintenance, or other conditions.
• Travelers must have a smartphone compatible with the Shaka Guide app.
• The app must be downloaded and the tour redeemed before arrival.
• Strong Wi-Fi or cellular data is required to download the tour in advance.
• Location services (GPS) must be enabled on the device
• Travelers are responsible for securing any required entrance passes, reservations, or permits before starting
• Tour takes 6–10 hours; covers a 90-mile stretch between milepost 384 (Asheville) and 294 (Blowing Rock) — splittable into 2–3 days
• Available in both directions — north to south and south to north
• Gas and food are limited along the parkway — stock up; available in Spruce Pine (halfway), Little Switzerland (restaurants), and Blowing Rock (end)
• Maximum speed limit is 45 mph — stay at or under the limit or the app may cut off

Photos

Traveler reviews

1 verified traveler reviews for Blue Ridge Parkway Asheville Audio Driving Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.