Breathtaking Views at Rough Ridge Lookout
Discover the stunning panoramas and serene hiking trails at Rough Ridge Lookout in North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains, a must-visit scenic spot for nature lovers.
Rough Ridge Lookout offers stunning panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Situated in Linville, North Carolina, this scenic spot provides an unforgettable experience with its breathtaking vistas, hiking trails, and vibrant foliage that changes with the seasons. Whether you're a photography enthusiast or simply looking to immerse yourself in nature, Rough Ridge Lookout is the perfect escape.
A brief summary to Rough Ridge Lookout - Grandfather Mountain, NC.
- 3218 Blue Rdg Pkwy, Linville, North Carolina, 28646, US
- +1828-298-0398
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
- Dress in layers, as temperatures can change rapidly in the mountains.
- Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike the trails.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure a clear view.
- Consider visiting during the fall to see the vibrant autumn foliage.
Getting There
-
Bus
From downtown Boone, walk to the nearest bus stop located at the corner of King St and Blowing Rock Rd. Take the AppalCart bus route that goes towards Blowing Rock. Make sure to check the schedule as buses run on specific times. Get off the bus at the stop for the Blue Ridge Parkway entrance. From there, follow the signs for Rough Ridge Lookout, which is about a 1-mile walk uphill along a well-marked trail.
-
Bicycle
Rent a bicycle from one of the local shops in Boone. Start at the intersection of King St and Blowing Rock Rd, then head on Blowing Rock Rd towards the Blue Ridge Parkway. It's approximately a 7-mile ride. Once you reach the Parkway, follow the signs for Rough Ridge Lookout. Be cautious as the road can be steep in sections.
-
Walking
If you are feeling adventurous, you can walk from downtown Boone to Rough Ridge Lookout. Start by heading south on King St until you reach Blowing Rock Rd. Turn left onto Blowing Rock Rd and continue walking for about 7 miles. This route will take you through some beautiful scenery, but be prepared for a long walk. Once you reach the Blue Ridge Parkway, follow the signs to Rough Ridge Lookout.
Discover more about Rough Ridge Lookout - Grandfather Mountain, NC.
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Pilot Ridge Overlook
1.9 km
Discover the breathtaking vistas and tranquil beauty of Pilot Ridge Overlook, a scenic highlight of the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina.
Graffiti Rockside
2.2 km
Explore the vibrant artistry and historical significance of Graffiti Rockside, a unique landmark in Lenoir, North Carolina, where creativity meets nature.
Flat Rock
7.5 km
Explore the historical significance and breathtaking views of Flat Rock, a gem nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina.
Banner House Museum
9.2 km
Explore the rich history of Banner Elk at the Banner House Museum, where heritage and culture come alive in North Carolina's beautiful mountains.
Avery County Museum
11.4 km
Explore the Avery County Museum for a unique journey into North Carolina's rich cultural and historical heritage through captivating exhibits and artifacts.
NC High Country Host Regional Visitor Center
13.9 km
Discover the scenic beauty and vibrant culture of North Carolina's High Country at the NC High Country Host Regional Visitor Center.
Thunder Hill Overlook
14.7 km
Discover the stunning vistas of Thunder Hill Overlook, a breathtaking scenic spot on the Blue Ridge Parkway, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
BobaBing
15.0 km
Discover BobaBing in Boone, NC – a bubble tea paradise with an array of flavors to delight your taste buds amidst breathtaking mountain views.
The Cardinal
15.7 km
Experience the true taste of America at The Cardinal in Boone, NC, where comfort food meets local charm in a welcoming atmosphere.
River & Earth Adventures
15.7 km
Experience the thrill of rafting and kayaking in Boone, NC with River & Earth Adventures - your ultimate outdoor adventure destination.
1903 Dougherty House Museum
15.8 km
Explore the rich history and architecture of the 1903 Dougherty House Museum in Blowing Rock, NC, a captivating historical landmark.
High Gravity Adventures Zip Line & Aerial Park
15.8 km
Discover the thrill of zip lining and high ropes courses in the scenic beauty of Blowing Rock, NC at High Gravity Adventures Zip Line & Aerial Park.
Mystery Hill
15.8 km
Explore the captivating world of optical illusions, local history, and science at Mystery Hill in Blowing Rock, North Carolina, a destination for all ages.
Tweetsie Railroad
15.8 km
Discover the magic of Tweetsie Railroad, a charming amusement park in North Carolina offering thrilling rides, live entertainment, and scenic train adventures.
Elk Creek Outfitters
15.9 km
Discover the ultimate fishing experience in Boone, NC with Elk Creek Outfitters, combining expert guidance and stunning natural landscapes.
Unmissable attractions to see
Yonahlossee Overlook
1.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Appalachian Mountains at Yonahlossee Overlook, a must-visit scenic spot along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Linn Cove Viaduct
1.2 km
Discover the Linn Cove Viaduct, a stunning blend of nature and engineering in the Blue Ridge Mountains, perfect for outdoor adventures and breathtaking views.
Grandfather Mountain State Park
1.8 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Grandfather Mountain State Park, home to stunning views, diverse wildlife, and thrilling outdoor adventures.
Grandfather Mountain
1.9 km
Discover the breathtaking views and diverse wildlife at Grandfather Mountain, a must-visit natural wonder in North Carolina.
Green Mountain Creek Falls
2.7 km
Explore the breathtaking Green Mountain Creek Falls in Blowing Rock, NC, a serene escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Mile High Swinging Bridge
2.9 km
Discover breathtaking views and thrilling experiences at the Mile High Swinging Bridge in North Carolina's beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains.
Beacon Heights Overlook Trail
3.1 km
Explore the breathtaking scenic views and peaceful hiking trails at Beacon Heights Overlook in Linville, NC – a true nature lover's paradise.
Forrest Gump Curve
3.3 km
Discover the iconic Forrest Gump Curve in North Carolina, a breathtaking hiking area blending cinematic history with stunning natural beauty.
Wilson Center for Nature Discovery
3.3 km
Explore the enchanting Wilson Center for Nature Discovery at Grandfather Mountain, where nature education meets breathtaking mountain views.
Picnic Area
3.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of the Picnic Area in Grandfather, NC, an ideal spot for relaxation and outdoor fun amidst stunning Appalachian landscapes.
Grandfather Mountain Entrance Gate
4.4 km
Explore the majestic Grandfather Mountain, a nature preserve in North Carolina, offering stunning views, diverse wildlife, and thrilling adventures.
Peak Mountain
4.9 km
Explore Peak Mountain, a breathtaking natural wonder in North Carolina, ideal for outdoor adventures, stunning views, and wildlife encounters.
Grandfather Mountain Overlook
5.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Grandfather Mountain Overlook, a scenic gem in North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster
5.6 km
Experience the thrill of the Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster in Banner Elk, NC – an exhilarating adventure through the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains.
Hawksnest Zipline
5.6 km
Zipline through the breathtaking landscapes of North Carolina at Hawksnest Zipline – an adventure for all thrill-seekers in Seven Devils.
Essential places to dine
Mildred's Grill
3.3 km
Experience delightful Southern cuisine at Mildred's Grill while enjoying breathtaking views near Grandfather Mountain in North Carolina.
Reid's Cafe & Catering Co.
4.0 km
Experience delightful American cuisine at Reid's Cafe & Catering Co., where every meal is crafted with care amidst the scenic beauty of Banner Elk.
The Pedalin' Pig
4.1 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at The Pedalin' Pig in Banner Elk – where smoky flavors meet friendly service.
Grandview Restaurant
5.5 km
Experience hearty breakfasts and Southern comfort food at Grandview Restaurant in beautiful Banner Elk, NC.
Bella's Italian Neighborhood Restaurant
5.6 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Bella's Italian Neighborhood Restaurant in Banner Elk, NC—where every meal feels like family.
Tartan Restaurant
7.1 km
Experience delicious American comfort food at Tartan Restaurant in Linville—perfect for families and breakfast lovers alike!
Artisanal Restaurant
7.3 km
Discover Artisanal Restaurant in Banner Elk - where locally sourced ingredients meet innovative American cuisine in a cozy mountain setting.
Stonewalls Restaurant
9.6 km
Experience exquisite steaks and fresh seafood at Stonewalls Restaurant in Banner Elk, NC – where culinary excellence meets mountain charm.
Sorrento's Italian Bistro
9.7 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of Italy at Sorrento's Italian Bistro in Banner Elk - where every meal is a celebration of culinary excellence.
Chef's Table at Sorrento's
9.7 km
Experience the fusion of American and Japanese cuisines at Chef's Table at Sorrento's in Banner Elk – where culinary art meets vibrant nightlife.
LP on Main
9.8 km
Discover LP on Main in Banner Elk: Where local flavors meet exceptional dining amidst stunning mountain views.
Gamekeeper Restaurant
10.8 km
Experience fine dining at its best in Boone, NC with seasonal dishes and stunning mountain views at Gamekeeper Restaurant.
Bistro Roca
11.3 km
Discover Bistro Roca in Blowing Rock - where local flavors meet mountain views for an unforgettable dining experience.
Twigs
12.0 km
Experience exquisite fine dining at Twigs in Blowing Rock - where Southern charm meets culinary excellence amidst live music.
Timberlake's Restaurant and Headwaters Pub
12.3 km
Experience traditional American cuisine with stunning lake views at Timberlake's Restaurant and Headwaters Pub in Blowing Rock.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Grandfather Mountain Top Shop
2.9 km
Explore the charm of Grandfather Mountain Top Shop, where unique gifts and breathtaking views create an unforgettable shopping experience.
Shoppes at tynecastle
4.2 km
Explore the Shoppes at Tynecastle - a vibrant shopping mall in Sugar Mountain, NC, offering unique retail and dining experiences amidst stunning mountain views.
Gilded Age Antiques
5.3 km
Discover exquisite antiques and unique gifts at Gilded Age Antiques in Banner Elk, NC, where history and craftsmanship come alive.
Banner Elk Soap & Candle Co.
5.6 km
Explore the aromatic wonders of Banner Elk Soap & Candle Co., where handcrafted soaps and candles await your discovery in beautiful North Carolina.
Those Were the Days
5.7 km
Discover timeless treasures at Those Were the Days, a charming antique store in Banner Elk, NC, showcasing unique finds and rich history.
Ski Country Sports
5.7 km
Explore the ultimate winter sports destination in Banner Elk, offering ski and snowboard rentals, gear, and expert advice for unforgettable mountain adventures.
Provisions on Sugar
6.0 km
Explore Provisions on Sugar for unique local gifts, artisanal foods, and charming souvenirs in the heart of Sugar Mountain, North Carolina.
Grandfather Scottish
7.1 km
Explore unique Scottish gifts, handcrafted jewelry, and local treasures at Grandfather Scottish in Linville, NC, a must-visit for every traveler.
Old Hampton Store & Barbeque
7.4 km
Experience the rustic charm and authentic barbecue at Old Hampton Store & Barbeque in Linville, NC—a true taste of Southern hospitality.
Reilly’s Shop
9.6 km
Explore Reilly’s Shop, an artistic haven in Banner Elk, showcasing local talents and unique creations in a charming art gallery setting.
Southern Highland Craft Guild, Moses Cone Manor
11.2 km
Explore the Southern Highland Craft Guild at Moses Cone Manor, a haven for art lovers featuring unique crafts, local artistry, and breathtaking mountain views.
The Village Shoppes On Main Street
11.5 km
Explore unique shops and local craftsmanship at The Village Shoppes On Main Street in scenic Blowing Rock, NC.
A Perfect Present
11.6 km
Explore A Perfect Present, the charming novelty store in Blowing Rock, NC, offering unique gifts and local crafts for your perfect souvenir.
Back Alley Pickers
11.6 km
Explore unique antiques and home goods at Back Alley Pickers in Newland, NC - a vintage lover's paradise.
We're Good Sports
11.6 km
Explore We're Good Sports in Blowing Rock, NC, your go-to destination for authentic sports memorabilia and collectibles.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Luna Thai & Sushi Restaurant
4.1 km
Savor the flavors of Asia at Luna Thai & Sushi Restaurant in Banner Elk, where exquisite Thai dishes meet fresh sushi in a cozy setting.
Highlanders Grill And Tavern
4.3 km
Discover the flavors of the mountains at Highlanders Grill And Tavern, where delicious food meets breathtaking views in Seven Devils, North Carolina.
Blind Elk Tap Room
9.5 km
Experience the best of local craft beer and a vibrant atmosphere at Blind Elk Tap Room in Banner Elk, NC.
Highlands Prohibition Kitchen
9.7 km
Experience the unique flavors of the Appalachian region at Highlands Prohibition Kitchen in scenic Banner Elk, NC.
The Patio Grill at Linville Land Harbor
11.0 km
Experience delightful dining at The Patio Grill at Linville Land Harbor, where local flavors meet stunning natural beauty in North Carolina.
The Town Tavern
11.5 km
Experience the perfect blend of sports, food, and live music at The Town Tavern, a must-visit sports bar in Blowing Rock, NC.
Storie Street Grille
11.5 km
Experience the best of Southern cuisine at Storie Street Grille in Blowing Rock, where local flavors meet a cozy atmosphere.
Six Pence Pub
11.6 km
Discover a delightful blend of American and British cuisine at Six Pence Pub in Blowing Rock, NC, where flavor meets charm.
The Speckled Trout Restaurant and Bottle Shop
11.7 km
Experience the flavors of American cuisine at The Speckled Trout in Blowing Rock, offering a unique blend of local ingredients and craft beverages.
The Best Cellar
11.8 km
Discover The Best Cellar in Blowing Rock, NC, where seasonal American cuisine meets stunning mountain views for an unforgettable dining experience.
5506'
12.1 km
Experience breathtaking views and refreshing drinks at 5506' Skybar, Beech Mountain's premier spot for relaxation and socializing.
Bullwinkels
12.3 km
Discover Bullwinkels on Beech Mountain for delicious pizza and a lively sports bar atmosphere, perfect for family and friends.
Alpen Restaurant & Bar
12.3 km
Experience fine dining in the heart of Beech Mountain, where local flavors and stunning views create unforgettable moments.
Mile High Tavern
13.1 km
Discover the cozy charm and delicious grill offerings at Mile High Tavern, a must-visit destination in scenic Beech Mountain, North Carolina.
Elevation 3333
16.7 km
Experience the thrill of sports and the taste of American cuisine at Elevation 3333, Boone's premier sports bar destination.