Choose Your Adventure

The Blue Ridge Parkway: Room to Roam

Experience up-close encounters with gorgeous natural spaces, directly adjacent to the Village of Blowing Rock. Our town is one of the few located directly on the Blue Ridge Parkway, at Milepost 294. The Parkway meanders for 469 miles through Appalachia, protecting a multitude of plants animals, views, and historic sites, all relatively untouched by development. It’s easy to see why the Blue Ridge Parkway is nicknamed “America’s Favorite Drive,” so hit the road and get away from the hustle and bustle.

Blowing Rock’s section is home to several of the most iconic Parkway treasures.

MOSES CONE PARK, MP 294: Historic home, 26 miles of carriage trails, Parkway Craft Center and craft demonstrations. PRICE PARK, MP 297: Price Lake & campground, hiking, picnicking. LINN COVE VIADUCT, MP 304: Unique s-curve bridge built to preserve the surrounding environment. GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN, MP 305: Mile-high Swinging Bridge, wildlife preserve, nature museum, hiking and nature programs. LINVILLE FALLS, MP 316: Massive falls, campground, fi shing, hiking.

Blowing Rock makers

Blowing Rock has a history of attracting creative people who draw inspiration from the natural splendor of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Continuing in this legacy today, there are several artisans making beautiful things right inside their local shops, from textiles to jewelry!

The Mountain Thread Company

Observe a textile process that marries the modern and the classic.

High Country Candles

The Ziegler family carves hand-dipped candles into a distinctive pattern of their own.

Gaines Kiker Silversmith/Goldsmith

One-of-a-kind and custom jewelry and sculpture.

Bolick Traditions Pottery

Traditional pottery and unique glazes from generations of artisans. McCoy Minerals- watch from special observation area as Doc cuts gemstones for custom settings.

Hiking

Fly Fishing

The High Country’s beautiful streams, lakes, and rivers provide wildlife sanctuaries and many recreational opportunities-like fishing! The best times of year to fish for trout here in in the High Country are the spring, fall, and winter months, when the water temperature is between 45° and 65°. Our waters offer excellent opportunities for catching brown, brook, and rainbow trout. Many local waters are stocked or hatchery supported, and NC Wildlife management signs are easy to locate waterside. Be aware that most places you fish in the area require a fishing license. Purchase a license from a local provider or online at ncwildlife.org.

FAVORITE FISHING SPOTS

Price Lake

Milepost 297 Blue Ridge Parkway, Blowing Rock

Trout Lake at Cone Memorial Park 5580 Shulls Mill Road, Blowing Rock

Bass Lake at Cone Memorial Park

1 Bass Lake Drive, Blowing Rock

Middle Fork of New River

Access at Middle Fork Greenway: 129 Mystery Hill Ln Blowing Rock

Watauga River

Access at Valle Crucis Community Park: 2892 Broadstone Rd, Banner Elk Glen Burney Trail Trail head in downtown Blowing Rock. 800 ft descent, 1.2 mi out-and-back trail with waterfalls. Moses Cone Memorial Park 25+ miles of Carriage Trails along the Blue Ridge Parkway at milepost 294.

Julian Price Memorial Park Trails 12+ miles of trails with camping, boating and fishing. Milepost 297 on Blue Ridge Parkway. Grandfather Mountain State Park 12 miles of trails and Ranger-led programs year round. Year-Round Appeal

Spring: Local trails are perfect locations for wildflower hunting! Summer: Deep greens and the warbling of migrating bird species await. Fall: Vibrant foliage from perspectives that can’t be found on busy roadways. Winter: Cold skies are clearer, making long-range views especially breathtaking.

Find seasonal info, details, and trail maps at blowingrock.com/hiking

The Blowing Rock

Yes, there is one! The town takes its name from The Blowing Rock, a unique formation overhanging Johns River Gorge and the Pisgah National Forest. The Rock is buffeted by near-constant winds, flumed up from the valley below. According to the Legend of the Blowing Rock, these strong winds carried a Cherokee brave back from the valley below to the arms of his beloved, who was waiting on the Rock as she prayed for his return. The Blowing Rock is known as NC’s oldest travel attraction, drawing visitors since before the town was incorporated. Stop by to experience the inspiring winds and incredible views for yourself! More at TheBlowingRock.com.