Craggy Gardens, Milepost 364

The name fits – Craggy Gardens. These high elevation summits are home to the most spectacular floral display along the 469-mile parkway corridor. Mid to late June is usually prime time for viewing the pink and purple blooms of rhododendron that blanket much of the Craggies.

 Don’t despair if you miss the peak bloom. A hike up Craggy Pinnacle trail (.7-mile) leads to a 360-view of seemingly endless peaks and forested slopes. Below, the parkway seems comparatively small, almost puny, as it winds its way through these ancient peaks.

Getting Started

Stop at the small visitor center that surmounts a very narrow ridge. Don’t resist the natural impulse to take in the view from both sides of the motor road, but be cautious and watch for traffic. Exhibits and staff at the visitor center will orient you to the area. The Craggy Gardens Trail begins at the southern end of the parking area and leads to a picnic area that is also accessible via car at Milepost 367. This trail crosses a grassy bald that is now being restored through selective mowing. Balds are increasingly rare treeless areas that, from a distance, make the mountain summit appear bare. There are two types: grassy and heath. The former are dominated by grasses, wildflowers and occasional members of the heath family. Heath balds are typically home to the low-growing rhododendron, mountain laurel, blueberries and flame azalea. Although these balds are disappearing for reasons that are unclear, both can still be found at Craggies.

A Word To The Wise

Like so much of the parkway’s high-elevation regions, Craggy Gardens is host to rare and even endangered plants that are easily damaged by hikers. Stay on trails for their sake and your safety. At more than 5,000-feet elevation, temperatures are much cooler than in the valleys below, sometimes more than 15-degrees. A light jacket or sweater can come in handy, even in summer.

Nearby

If you are traveling north, visit Mount Mitchell, highest point east of the Mississippi River (6,684-feet). Take NC Route 128 at Milepost 355. A short but strenuous trail leads to an observation platform. Unfortunately, air pollution reduces summertime visibility but rare clear days can be spectacular. The state park features a backcountry campground, other trails, and a restaurant with fine views. South from Craggy Gardens, the parkway descends to Asheville, well-known for its architecturally appealing and vibrant downtown. The Folk Art Center, on the Parkway at mile 382 is a good place to learn more about the area. The center houses permanent and temporary exhibits and offers craft demonstrations, workshops and sales.