Craggy Dome Overlook — Attraction in Black Mountain

This short mile-high hike is well worth the effort! It's an out and back type trail at around .7 of a mile none way so It's only a 1.4-mile round-trip hike to the top of the 5,892-ft. summit. Once at the top you witness breathlessly beautiful panoramic 360-degree views are hard to beat in Western North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains.

The hiking trail goes through tunnels of rhododendron, gnarled sweet birch trees and wildflowers. Near the top, there are also side trails to explore.

To get to the trailhead from the Craggy Gardens Visitor's Center, drive north through a short tunnel and pull into the next parking area on the left for the trail. The elevation at the parking lot is 5,640 ft., so you only climb 252 ft. in elevation on the trail. It's not difficult. Located on the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 364.1,

I highly recommend this trail to hike, for it provides one of the best views on the Blue Ridge Parkway. You do get a decent view of the mountains from the parking area, but for the real view, hike the...

Absolutely breathtaking. The hike up is short and actually quite easy. The hike itself is gorgeous and very memorable. The time to go is mid-June. Catawba Rhododendron create tunnels on the trail and cover most of the trail on the way to the peak. Perfect place for watching sunsets; sunrises, perhaps even proposals or something as solemn as the spreading of a loved one's ashes. It's that kind of place. You'll never forget your visit if you've an appreciation for...

This is an amazing place, especially if you get the timing right! Stunning views , and the rhodies are spectacular! Here's a shot of my beautiful Mom and myself at Craggy. Plus one or two more ! There are also fascinating trails and secret discoveries if you feel energetic! Pack a lunch and go ! Great photo ops and views...