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 Craggy Gardens 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 Craggy Gardens 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 Craggy Gardens Visitors' Center, and restrooms are on premises. There is no food concession.

Due to a road closure between Craggy Gardens and Mount Mitchell State Park, the Visitors' Center is currently closed and viewing areas are not reachable by car.  The picnic area is accessible driving north from Asheville.

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

Admission Fees
None.

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 Destination Center
195 Hemphill Knob Road
Asheville, NC 28803
Destination Center: (828) 298-5330
Visitor Information Recorded Message: (828) 298-0398

www.nps.gov/blri