Rough Ridge is a 1.5-mile out-and-back hike to a series of extraordinary stone overlooks. It is a well-known hike in the Boone High Country, but it is actually a smaller section of the 13-mile Tanawha Trail. Hikers will see long-range views of Grandfather Mountain, the Linn Cove Viaduct, and Linville Gorge. To hike this trail, start at Rough Ridge Overlook, Milepost 302.8, and follow the trail signs up the hill to the right of the parking area.
Click on any photo to open the photo tour as a slideshow.
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- The trail starts at Rough Ridge Overlook, Milepost 302.8. This bridge & waterfall are visible from the parking area.
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- This bridge marks the start of the trail.
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- Rough Ridge is short but strenuous. Most of the trail is steep uphill terrain.
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- There are three stone overlooks. When you reach the first, look up and to your right to see the others.
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- The trail has a view of Calloway Peak on Grandfather Mountain, and of the Viaduct.
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- Its brilliant fall colors make it popular for photography.
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- Mountain Ash trees cling to the rocks at the first overlook.
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- The trail continues steeply uphill.
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- Rough Ridge’s long-range views are extraordinary.
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- One of the famous views of the Linn Cove Viaduct is at the second overlook.
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- Stanley Abbot, the chief architect for the Blue Ridge Parkway, said, “The idea is to fit the Parkway into the mountains as if nature has put it there.”
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- The first overlook area, as viewed from higher on the trail.
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- The trail turns into a boardwalk through the first overlook area. This is the view going back down towards the parking area.
