The Best Places to Visit on your Drive from Asheville to Boone, North Carolina

Are you planning a road trip from Asheville to Boone, North Carolina? This scenic drive through the Blue Ridge Mountains offers spectacular views and winter activities to do along the way. Here are the top places you should stop at on your trip.

First Stop: Asheville

Before you hit the road, make sure to explore the city of Asheville. Known for its vibrant arts scene, this funky mountain town is a hub for musicians, artists, and writers. Make sure to visit downtown Asheville, where you'll find street performers, boutique shops, and local craft breweries. One must-see attraction is the Biltmore Estate, a historic mansion that once belonged to the Vanderbilt family. Take a tour of the beautiful gardens and spend some time strolling through the estate's art galleries. Once you're ready to hit the road, it's time to head north to discover what else the Blue Ridge Mountains have in store for you.

Destination 1: Mount Mitchell

Your first stop on this drive should be Mount Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi. Take the Blue Ridge Parkway towards Milepost 355.4 and park at the Mount Mitchell State Park. From there, you can hike the Mount Mitchell Trail or take the short walk to the observation deck. The views from the top are breathtaking, especially on a clear day. You will be able to see the gorgeous valleys and ridges that surround Mt. Mitchell.

Destination 2: Linville Falls

Linville Falls is located off the Blue Ridge Parkway and is a picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush forest. The falls can be viewed from different viewpoints, and you can hike to the lower and upper falls to catch some fantastic views. Make sure to bring a camera to capture the beauty of the waterfall and the surrounding scenery.

Destination 3: Grandfather Mountain

Grandfather Mountain is one of the most iconic landmarks in North Carolina. This high peak is located near the town of Linville, and it offers stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. There are several hiking trails available for all levels of hikers, but you can also drive up to the top for a scenic view from the Mile High Swinging Bridge, an attraction that lets you walk across to get a 360-degree view of the surrounding mountains. Grandfather Mountain is also known for its wildlife, with bears, cougars, and eagles all making their home on the mountain.

Destination 4: Blowing Rock

Blowing Rock is a small town situated around 30 miles from Boone, North Carolina. It's a beautiful place to stop and relax before continuing on your journey. The main attraction at Blowing Rock is the Blowing Rock itself, which is a rocky outcropping that appears to defy gravity, the perfect spot for a unique photo opportunity. The town also has plenty of restaurants and cafes to refuel and relax before hitting the road.

Destination 5: Boone

Your final destination on this road trip is the town of Boone. Boone is a small mountain town that is situated at an elevation of 3,300 feet. It's known for its university, Appalachian State, and for being home to the legendary Daniel Boone. Boone offers up natural beauty with a host of outdoor activities like hiking, rock climbing, and fishing. The town also has many restaurants, shops, and cafes that you can explore.

In Conclusion

Driving through the Blue Ridge Mountains offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure and exploring small towns. On your next trip from Asheville to Boone, make sure to stop at these top destinations and experience what the beautiful region has to offer. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or prefer leisurely scenic drives, you'll find something to enjoy along the way. So pack your hiking boots and your sense of adventure, and hit the road!