Blue Ridge Parkway - Section 3

Potato Knob, as seen from the Blue Ridge Parkway near Mount Mitchell.

General Information

This section of the parkway continues south and contains some of the most spectacular scenery along the entire road. Two wonderful recreation areas, Linville Falls and Crabtree Meadows, lie along this section of the motor road. At this section's southern end, you'll find the access road for Mount Mitchell State Park, containing the Appalachians' highest mountain - Mount Mitchell - at 6,684'. Spectacular views of the Black Mountains can be found along the climb from NC Route 80, which - in the winter - is generally the only way to access Mount Mitchell by vehicle.

Facilities

Here are the developed recreation areas along this section of the Parkway.

Linville Falls (MP 316.4)

A spectacular waterfall drops into the deepest gorge east of the Mississippi.

• Campground (50 tent and 20 trailer sites, flush toilets, showers, water, no hook-ups).
• Visitor Center/Restrooms
• Picnic Area

Crabtree Meadows (MP 339.5)

Contains one of the most photogenic waterfalls in the area. Named for historic meadows along the Parkway. This is the last stretch of Parkway along the Blue Ridge before it heads into the higher, interior mountain ranges.

• Campground (71 tent and 22 trailer sites, flush toilets, water, no hook-ups or showers).
• Visitor Center/Coffee Shop (light snacks, drinks)/Restrooms
• Picnic Area

Mount Mitchell State Park (MP 355)

The State Park is 2.5 miles N. of Parkway on NC 128. It is not actually a Parkway facility but the Parkway is the only access. Contains the highest peak east of the Mississippi River.

• Campground (9 tent sites, water, flush toilets, no showers, no hook-ups).
• Visitor Center/Restrooms
• Museum/Gift Shop
• Concession Stand
• Picnic Area
• Observation Tower