Just under a mile north of the NC 16 junction is the Jumpinoff Rocks Parking Area at milepost 260.3. This trail can easily be missed or like some travelers, just pull in and continue on along the Parkway. There are views at the pull off from the Parkway, which is why many miss this hike. This is a classic Blue Ridge Parkway leg stretcher leading to a secluded stone observation platform with expansive views from atop rocks you shouldn't be "jumpinoff". This short, easy hike should not be missed.
Sign at the parking area Spur road leading to parking area
This 0.5 mile hike to the stone observation platform starts along a flight of steps near the picnic table on the right side of the parking area. You may notice the original old trail on your left, which is now a gully. The new graded trail has an elevation gain of 196 feet, which makes it easy for just about everyone.
See if you can notice the old road grade coming in from your right as you hike. At 0.3 miles is a bench with a few short spur trails on the left that lead to limited view points. The trail bears right off the graded path and drops gradually. The trail turns left and soon you'll descend down to the rock observation platform.
In the future this trail may become part of the Mountains to Sea Trail. This hike is featured in the hiking guide book Hiking the Blue Ridge Parkway.
