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Waterrock
Knob

 

 

Waterrock Knob is a must stop along the Parkway.  It is located at Milepost 451.2, which is just 18 miles from the southern end of the Parkway.  This area features the last hiking trail along the Parkway as you travel toward the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

The 6,292 foot summit of Waterrock Knob is the 16th highest mountain in the Eastern United States as well as the the 15th highest of the 40 mountains in North Carolina over 6,000 feet. There are fantastic views both east and west from the parking area. There is a Visitors Center and restrooms. It's one of the best places in the North Carolina mountains to watch a sunrise or sunset.

A 1.2 mile round trip hike will take you to the top of the summit. The steep climb gains 412 feet in elevation over the short 0.6 mile to the summit. There are great views along the trail. The first 0.25 mile of the trail is paved, ending at a nice overlook with a small rock wall that you can sit on to take a break.

On the summit, there are several vantage points for distant views (although it's not a 360-degree panoramic view). On a clear day, you have 50 mile views, including the highest peaks in the Smoky Mountains.  Maggie Valley is below you.  This final classic leg stretcher for south bound travelers is the perfect finale for the magnificent Blue Ridge Parkway

This hike is featured in the hiking guide book Hiking the Blue Ridge Parkway.

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Bench along the trail to Waterrock Knob

CNY Hiking HOME PAGE

Developed Areas Along the Parkway

North Carolina BRP Highlights Blue Ridge Parkway