The Blue Ridge Parkway - Mile 364.6

The Blue Ridge Parkway - Mile 364.6 - Craggy Gardens

Heading North on the Parkway from Asheville, you begin to climb to well over 5,000 feet. Craggy Gardens serves as the gateway to the magnificent views and scenery along the Blue Ridge Parkway along the higher mountain ridges.

Craggy Gardens Visitor Center along the Blue Ridge Parkway

At these heights, a different climate awaits. Atop the pinnacle in May, one will still have the chill of early spring. In fall, frost and snow will mix with the magnificent colors of autumn. Known for their rhododendron the Craggies come alive in mid-June as the rhododendron reach their flowery peak.

View from the top of Craggy Pinnacle

The popular Craggy Pinnacle Trail is a short hike (about 0.7 miles one-way / 1.4 round trip) and offers breathtaking views in every direction.

Southern view of the Blue Ridge Parkway from Craggy Pinnacle

North Fork Reservoir

http://surewhynotnow.blogspot.com/p/the-blue-ridge-parkway-drive.html

Navigation:

North - Mile 352.4 - Bald Knob Parking Area
Detour - Mile 355.3 - Mount Mitchell State Park
South - Mile 372.1 - Lane Pinnacle

Sources & Links:

Craggy Gardens - BlueRidgeHeritage.org
Craggy Pinnacle Hike - RomanticAsheville.com

All photos taken by author - May 23, 2010.

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