Experience Breathtaking Views at Rough Butt Bald Overlook
Discover the stunning vistas of Rough Butt Bald Overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway, a must-see for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Rough Butt Bald Overlook, nestled in the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway of North Carolina, offers visitors a breathtaking vista of the surrounding mountains and valleys. A must-visit for nature lovers and photographers alike, this spot showcases stunning landscapes that change with the seasons, making it a picturesque destination year-round.
A brief summary to Rough Butt Bald Overlook
- Blue Rdg Pkwy, Tuckasegee, North Carolina, 28783, US
Local tips
- Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most breathtaking views.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes, especially in fall.
- Plan to spend some time hiking nearby trails for a deeper experience of the area.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy while soaking in the panoramic views.
Getting There
-
Bus
From downtown Asheville, head to the nearest bus stop on the ART (Asheville Redefines Transit) system. Take the Route 2 bus towards the Blue Ridge Parkway. After approximately 30 minutes, get off at the stop for the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center. From there, you can either walk or take a short taxi ride to Rough Butt Bald Overlook, which is approximately 5 miles down the parkway. The trailhead leading to the overlook is well-marked.
-
Bicycle
If you prefer to bike, rent a bicycle from one of the local shops in downtown Asheville. Start your ride towards the Blue Ridge Parkway entrance at the intersection of US-70 and the Parkway. Follow the Parkway northbound for about 12 miles. Rough Butt Bald Overlook will be on your left, and you should see signage indicating the overlook access point. Be cautious of the traffic on the Parkway as you approach the overlook.
-
Walking
Although Rough Butt Bald Overlook is not directly accessible on foot from downtown Asheville, for an adventurous option, you could walk to the Blue Ridge Parkway entrance (approximately 3 miles from downtown). From there, you can hike along the scenic trails that lead to the overlook. Note that this will require a good level of fitness and preparation, as the trails can be steep and rugged.
-
Taxi/Rideshare
For a more direct and comfortable route, you can use a rideshare app like Uber or Lyft. Input 'Rough Butt Bald Overlook' as your destination. The driver will take you along the scenic route via the Blue Ridge Parkway. The drive will take around 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic. This is the most straightforward option if you want to avoid public transportation.
Discover more about Rough Butt Bald Overlook
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Wolf Mountain Overlook
0.8 km
Discover breathtaking views and serene nature at Wolf Mountain Overlook, a must-visit scenic spot along the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway.
Courthouse Valley Overlook
2.7 km
Discover the stunning vistas and natural beauty at Courthouse Valley Overlook, a must-visit scenic spot along the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina.
Caney Fork Overlook
3.3 km
Discover the breathtaking views at Caney Fork Overlook, a serene escape along the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina's Appalachian Mountains.
Graveyard Fields Upper Falls
7.0 km
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Graveyard Fields Upper Falls, a hidden gem of North Carolina's wilderness, perfect for hiking and nature lovers.
East Fork Overlook
9.5 km
Discover the stunning panoramic views of East Fork Overlook, a must-visit scenic spot along the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina.
Village of Saunook Overlook
16.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Appalachian Mountains at the Village of Saunook Overlook, a must-visit scenic spot along the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway.
The Orchards Overlook
20.1 km
Experience the stunning vistas of The Orchards Overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Cranberry Ridge Overlook
25.6 km
Discover the stunning vistas and tranquil beauty of Cranberry Ridge Overlook along the Blue Ridge Parkway, a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers.
Woolyback Overlook
25.6 km
Discover the breathtaking views at Woolyback Overlook, the scenic gem of the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina, perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Hominy Valley Overlook
25.9 km
Experience breathtaking views and serene nature at Hominy Valley Overlook, a stunning spot along the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina.
Zachary-Tolbert House
26.8 km
Explore the rich heritage of North Carolina at the Zachary-Tolbert House, a historical museum immersing visitors in the region's early settler life.
Laurel Falls
30.6 km
Experience the natural beauty and historical significance of Laurel Falls in Sunset, SC, a must-visit landmark for nature lovers and hikers.
Sassafras Mountain
30.7 km
Discover the breathtaking views and diverse hiking trails at Sassafras Mountain, the highest peak in South Carolina, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Triple Falls
31.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Triple Falls in Pisgah Forest, a hiker's paradise with stunning waterfalls and lush scenery.
Lickstone Overlook
31.9 km
Discover breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage at Lickstone Overlook, a scenic gem along the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina.
Unmissable attractions to see
Devil's Courthouse
4.2 km
Discover the stunning vistas and rich folklore at Devil's Courthouse, a premier viewpoint on the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina.
Black Balsam Knob
6.8 km
Explore the breathtaking scenery and vibrant wildlife of Black Balsam Knob, a premier hiking destination in North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains.
Cowee Mountain Overlook
7.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Cowee Mountain Overlook, a scenic spot along the Blue Ridge Parkway that offers stunning views and tranquility.
Graveyard Fields 418.8
8.8 km
Explore Graveyard Fields, a breathtaking hiking area in North Carolina, featuring stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and vibrant wildflower meadows for outdoor adventure.
Skinny Dip Falls Trailhead
10.6 km
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Skinny Dip Falls, a hidden waterfall paradise along the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina.
View Looking Glass Rock Overlook
10.6 km
Discover the stunning beauty of Looking Glass Rock Overlook, a premier scenic spot along the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina, ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Daniel Ridge Falls
10.7 km
Experience the natural beauty of Daniel Ridge Falls, a stunning waterfall in Canton, NC, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Cove Creek Falls
11.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Cove Creek Falls in Brevard, NC, a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility in nature's embrace.
Cathedral Falls And French Broad Falls
11.6 km
Discover the serene beauty of Cathedral Falls and French Broad Falls in Balsam Grove, NC, where nature meets tranquility in a breathtaking landscape.
Cherry Cove Overlook
12.1 km
Discover the stunning vistas at Cherry Cove Overlook, a must-see scenic spot along the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina.
Falls on Grogan Creek
12.7 km
Experience the serene beauty of Falls on Grogan Creek in Brevard, NC, a perfect escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Cedar Rock Creek Falls
13.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Cedar Rock Creek Falls in Brevard, NC – a serene escape into nature's splendor.
Pisgah Center for Wildlife Education
13.8 km
Discover the Pisgah Center for Wildlife Education, where nature comes alive through interactive exhibits and breathtaking trails in North Carolina's picturesque Pisgah Forest.
Sliding Rock
14.1 km
Experience the thrill of Sliding Rock in Pisgah National Forest, where nature meets adventure with a refreshing natural water slide.
Pounding Mill Overlook
14.8 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of Pounding Mill Overlook, a scenic spot along the Blue Ridge Parkway offering breathtaking views and tranquility for every traveler.
Essential places to dine
The Restaurant at The Greystone Inn
18.2 km
Experience exquisite dining at The Restaurant at The Greystone Inn in Lake Toxaway – where local flavors meet breathtaking views.
Grand Olde Station Restaurant
19.1 km
Experience authentic American cuisine amidst the breathtaking beauty of Lake Toxaway at Grand Olde Station Restaurant.
Pisgah Inn
20.3 km
Discover Pisgah Inn: A Scenic Retreat with Stunning Views and Delicious Dining in North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains.
Villa Amato
20.4 km
Discover Villa Amato: An Authentic Italian Restaurant Offering Exquisite Cuisine Amidst the Natural Beauty of Lake Toxaway.
Hawg Wild Smokehouse & Taproom
21.8 km
Discover authentic Southern barbecue at Hawg Wild Smokehouse & Taproom in Pisgah Forest—where every bite tells a story of flavor and tradition.
Canyon Kitchen
22.0 km
Experience fine dining at its best at Canyon Kitchen in Sapphire, NC—where local flavors meet stunning mountain views.
Pisgah Fish Camp
22.1 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at Pisgah Fish Camp nestled in scenic Pisgah Forest, perfect for nature lovers and food enthusiasts alike.
Micas Restaurant and Pub
22.4 km
Discover Micas Restaurant and Pub in Sapphire: A delightful American eatery offering delicious pizzas, bar favorites, and an inviting atmosphere.
Slopeside Tavern
22.6 km
Discover Slopeside Tavern: A delightful dining destination in Sapphire Valley offering delicious meals and stunning mountain views.
The Rivers and Rails Tavern
28.7 km
Discover Southern hospitality at The Rivers and Rails Tavern in Dillsboro – where local flavors meet stunning mountain views.
Papa Johns Pizza
35.3 km
Enjoy delicious pizza made with fresh ingredients at Papa John's Pizza in Mills River, perfect for families and friends seeking tasty meals.
The Stubborn Bull at Mill Creek
36.1 km
Experience farm-to-table dining at The Stubborn Bull in Highlands, NC - where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Wolfgang's Restaurant & Wine Bistro
36.2 km
Discover culinary delight at Wolfgang's Restaurant & Wine Bistro in Highlands - where American flavors meet French elegance.
Granny's Kitchen
36.5 km
Discover delicious comfort food at Granny's Kitchen in Cherokee – a must-visit buffet restaurant offering hearty American dishes for all appetites.
Ruth's Chris Steak House
37.3 km
Experience the ultimate fine dining at Ruth's Chris Steak House in Cherokee with sizzling steaks and exquisite seafood amidst elegant surroundings.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Pisgah Visitor Center Gift Shop
19.7 km
Explore unique gifts and local crafts at Pisgah Visitor Center Gift Shop in the stunning Pisgah National Forest, a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.
Historic Toxaway Market
20.4 km
Explore gourmet delights and fine wines at Historic Toxaway Market in Lake Toxaway, NC - a treasure trove for food enthusiasts and travelers.
A Blast From The Past
20.4 km
Explore A Blast From The Past in Brevard, NC: A unique gift shop brimming with nostalgia and delightful treasures for every visitor.
White Squirrel Shoppe
20.4 km
Explore the charm of Brevard at White Squirrel Shoppe, your go-to destination for unique gifts and local artisan crafts.
The Hub and Pisgah Tavern
21.8 km
Explore Pisgah Forest with bike rentals, repairs, and enjoy local brews at The Hub and Pisgah Tavern, your outdoor adventure hub.
The Forest Store
21.8 km
Explore outdoor gear and local crafts at The Forest Store in Pisgah Forest, the gateway to North Carolina's stunning nature.
Gather Gift Shop
22.1 km
Discover unique gifts, Christian literature, and local treasures at Gather Gift Shop in Pisgah Forest, NC.
The General Store
25.1 km
Explore unique gifts and local crafts at The General Store in Brevard, North Carolina, where every item tells a story.
Vivace of Cashiers
25.6 km
Discover unique fashion finds at Vivace of Cashiers, where style meets the charm of the North Carolina mountains for an unforgettable shopping experience.
Tanglewood Village and Shops
25.7 km
Discover Tanglewood Village and Shops in Maggie Valley, NC, where antiques meet artistry in a charming setting filled with history.
The Cashiers Store
26.1 km
Explore The Cashiers Store for unique clothing and local artisan treasures in beautiful Cashiers, North Carolina.
Cabbage Rose
26.9 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Cabbage Rose, a charming gift shop in Maggie Valley, perfect for all your souvenir needs.
Jelly Belly's Mountain Gift
26.9 km
Experience the sweetest adventure at Jelly Belly's Mountain Gift, where delightful candies and creamy ice cream await in Maggie Valley, North Carolina.
Rockhound Ridge Gem Mine
31.6 km
Unearth unique gemstones and enjoy a family-friendly adventure at Rockhound Ridge Gem Mine in Sylva, North Carolina.
RECLAMATIONS
31.9 km
Explore RECLAMATIONS in Highlands, NC, where unique antiques and architectural salvage await to inspire your next project or home decor.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Forks of the River Taproom
20.1 km
Discover the rustic allure of Forks of the River Taproom, a cozy beer garden in Rosman, NC, surrounded by the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains.
Los Vaqueros Mexican Restaurant
20.3 km
Savor authentic Mexican flavors in a vibrant setting at Los Vaqueros Mexican Restaurant in Lake Toxaway, North Carolina.
Cook Out
21.0 km
Experience authentic American fast food at Cook Out in Brevard, where delicious burgers, barbecue, and milkshakes await you.
Panthertown Cafe LLC
21.2 km
Experience the charm of southern cuisine at Panthertown Cafe, where nature and delicious flavors meet in the heart of Lake Toxaway.
Osteria Del Monte
21.3 km
Experience the essence of Italy at Osteria Del Monte, where authentic flavors and a cozy atmosphere await in Sapphire, NC.
Riverside Bar
22.2 km
Discover Riverside Bar: A delightful blend of American, British, and Indian cuisines in the heart of Pisgah Forest, NC.
The Fix Restaurant Bar and Lounge
22.3 km
Discover the flavors of Sapphire at The Fix Restaurant Bar and Lounge, where culinary excellence meets breathtaking mountain views.
The Library Kitchen & Bar
22.8 km
Discover the perfect blend of Southern charm and culinary delight at The Library Kitchen & Bar in Sapphire, NC.
Whiteside Brewing Company
25.5 km
Experience the best of craft beer at Whiteside Brewing Company, a brewpub nestled in the scenic beauty of Cashiers, North Carolina.
The Ugly Dog Pub-Cashiers
25.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delicious offerings at The Ugly Dog Pub in Cashiers, North Carolina, your go-to spot for food, drinks, and entertainment.
Creekside Oyster House and Grill
26.1 km
Discover the flavors of the Smokies at Creekside Oyster House and Grill, where fresh seafood meets a cozy atmosphere in Sylva, North Carolina.
The Cut Cocktail Lounge
26.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and creative cocktails at The Cut Cocktail Lounge in Sylva, NC - a must-visit bar for travelers.
Balsam Falls Brewing Co.
26.5 km
Discover Balsam Falls Brewing Co. in Sylva, NC, where craft beer and community spirit combine to create an unforgettable experience.
Legends Sports Bar And Grill
27.3 km
Discover the ultimate sports bar experience at Legends Sports Bar And Grill in Maggie Valley, where great food meets exciting games in a lively atmosphere.
Jocassee Point
30.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and outdoor adventures at Jocassee Point, your gateway to nature in South Carolina's stunning landscapes.