The Blue Ridge runs from northern Virginia through the Carolinas into north Georgia. Pick a region below to see what is there, then find a rental close by.
The High Country is northwestern North Carolina's highest ground, with Grandfather Mountain, several ski areas and the Blue Ridge Parkway running through it. Banner Elk, Boone and Blowing Rock make good bases in every season. Leaves usually turn first on the highest ridges in early October and move down to the valleys by late October or early November. The timing shifts every year.
Linville, NC · NC High Country
A nonprofit nature park with the Mile High Swinging Bridge, hiking trails and wildlife habitats. The summit area is often windy and cooler than the valleys. Admission is charged at the entrance.
Linville, NC · NC High Country
A curving concrete bridge on the Blue Ridge Parkway that winds around the side of Grandfather Mountain. A short paved path from the visitor center gets you underneath for views of the bridge. Phone shown is the Parkway's main number.
Blowing Rock, NC · NC High Country
A rock outcrop high above the Johns River gorge, known for a local legend and wide valley views. It sits just outside the town of Blowing Rock, which has shops and restaurants on its main street.
Linville Falls, NC · NC High Country
A multi-tiered waterfall at the head of Linville Gorge, with short trails to several overlooks. The visitor center and trailhead are off a spur road from the Blue Ridge Parkway near milepost 316. Phone shown is the Parkway's main number.
Linville Falls, NC · NC High Country
A deep, rugged gorge in Pisgah National Forest, often called the Grand Canyon of the East. Wiseman's View is a short walk from a road and gives a broad look into the gorge. Trails inside the gorge are steep and demanding. Contact details are for the Forest Service's Grandfather Ranger District.
Todd, NC · NC High Country
A state park with a trail to a high summit and open views across the High Country and into Tennessee. The summit trail is steady but not technical. Check the park's website for trail closures.
Roan Mountain, TN · NC High Country
A high ridge on the Tennessee and North Carolina line known for grassy balds and a large stand of Catawba rhododendron that blooms in mid-to-late June. The Rhododendron Gardens are managed by the Forest Service, and Roan Mountain State Park is nearby in the valley.