North Carolina Attractions Along the Blue Ridge Parkway

Stretching 469 miles, the Blue Ridge Parkway runs from Waynesboro, VA to Cherokee, NC. In addition to the scenic views found while driving, there are a number of attractions that can be accessed from the parkway. Many of these attractions are in North Carolina.

Starting at the southern end of the Blue Ridge Parkway is Cherokee, NC. Home to the Cherokee Indian Reservation, this small mountain town has a lot to offer. Tour the Oconaluftee Indian Village, a reconstructed 1750s Cherokee village. Learn about the history and culture of the Cherokee from costumed guides and watch as Native Americans demonstrate age-old arts and crafts. See the outdoor drama "Unto These Hills," which tells the story of the Cherokee. Stop by the Qualla Arts & Craft Mutual to purchase authentic Cherokee-made craft items, including ceremonial masks, pottery and wood carvings. If you have time, make sure to visit beautiful Soco Falls and Mingo Falls.

Waterrock Knob is found near milepost 451. At nearly 6,000 feet in elevation, it is the second highest peak on the Blue Ridge Parkway. A trail leads from the Visitor's Center to the summit of Waterrock Knob.

Around milepost 443 of the parkway, you will find Maggie Valley and Waynesville. Explore Waynesville's Museum of North Carolina Handicrafts, located in the historic Shelton House. Founded in 1875, the museum exhibits heritage crafts including Indian artifacts, homemade quilts and pottery. Maggie Valley offers Cataloochee Ski Resort and the family fun amusement park Ghost Town in the Sky.

Graveyard Fields can be found at milepost 418. Home to 3 waterfalls-Second, Yellowstone and Upper Falls-this is a great place to enjoy nature while you stretch your legs. Yellowstone Falls isn't for the faint of heart as the trail is fairly strenuous and extremely steep.

The Penland Gallery is found at milepost 331 of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Featuring work by artists affiliated with the Penland School of Crafts, this is a great place to buy a gift, add to your own craft collection or learn more about contemporary crafts.

Get off at milepost 317.4 for a visit to Linville Caverns, North Carolina's only show caverns. Check out the limestone cavern and watch the changes. While you're off the parkway, don't forget to see Grandfather Mountain. At 5,964 feet, it's the highest point in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Not for the faint of heart, the mile-high, 228 foot swinging bridge is sure to delight those with a taste for adventure.

Once back on the Blue Ridge Parkway, stop off at milepost 294 for a blend of history, crafts and recreation. The Moses H Cone Memorial Park offers hiking trails and two lakes. Flat Top Manor serves as visitor's center and home to a craft shop operated by the Southern Highland Guild.

As you can see, there are a number of interesting and exciting attractions along the North Carolina stretch of the Blue Ridge Parkway. When traveling the parkway, keep an eye out for other great attractions.