Updated By Chris Murphy / Image from Blowing Rock Visitor Center
Take in the Fall Foliage in Blowing Rock
Fall is a popular time of year to visit Blowing Rock. The cool crisp air is great for outdoor activities and the view is incredible. The autumn season transforms the dense green forests to hues of yellow, orange and red. When you visit Blowing Rock during fall, be sure to take in the views from these locations.
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Where to View the Fall Colors in Blowing Rock
Here are some of the best places to view the fall colors in Blowing Rock. Several of these sites can be reached by hiking or simply driving along a scenic parkway.
Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most scenic drives in the country. Right outside of Blowing Rock, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers a slow-paced, relaxing drive through breathtaking vistas, mountains, fields and more.
Observe the changing colors from your car or hop out and traverse one of the 300 miles of hiking trails along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Thunder Hill, one of the most visited overlooks on the parkway, is located in Blowing Rock.
Julian Price Memorial Park
Julian Price Memorial Park rests at the foot of Grandfather Mountain. This scenic park is a great place to relax and take in the changing treetops. Pack a picnic lunch or explore more of the fall mountain ranges on a hike. Visitors can also rent a kayak or canoe for waterfront views.
Sky Valley Zip Tours
Zipline through the autumn-colored treetops at Sky Valley Zip Tours. Located in Blowing Rock, fly over the forest with one of Sky Valley’s zipline adventures. With 10 different ziplines, you can enjoy a different scenic vista along with some high thrills.
The Blowing Rock
One of North Carolina’s oldest travel attractions, The Blowing Rock is a spectacular rock formation within the Blue Ridge Mountains. The cliff stands 4,000 feet above sea level with the Johns River Gorge beneath it.
Head to The Blowing Rock’s observation tower to take in panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountain’s fall foliage. The gardens, overlook and waterfall are all fantastic places to relax in the natural surroundings.
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Tweetsie Railroad
Ride through the trees, bright with auburn tones, during fall at Tweetsie Railroad. This wild west theme park features family-friendly rides, entertainment, history and more. Take a ride on one of the two historic locomotives. Tweetsie Railroad also has a chair lift and Ferris wheel that provide sweeping views of the area.
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Have a Meal with a View
Complement your meal when you eat in Blowing Rock with a phenomenal view of the fall foliage. Some restaurants have large, floor-to-ceiling windows that offer spectacular views along with menus that will please everyone. Whether you choose an affordable, family-friendly restaurant or something more upscale with a view of the Blue Ridge Mountains, you’re sure to enjoy every bite and the accompanying views from some of Blowing Rock’s restaurants.
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Located between Boone and Blowing Rock, The Gamekeeper is an award-winning restaurant that’s perfect for having a meal with a view. The restaurant serves their version of classic Southern fair to create a fine-dining menu that’s perfect for a romantic evening out. Pair your meal with the charming wooded setting surrounding The Gamekeeper.
