MP 216.9 to 339
Highlands Region
This Section of the Parkway begins at the Virginia/North Carolina State Line and extends into North Carolina
The Highlands Region of the Blue Ridge Parkway extends from the Virginia/North Carolina state line at Milepost 217 and continues south to Milepost 339 in Crabtree Falls, NC.
In this region of the Parkway in North Carolina, you’ll find Linville Falls and other picturesque wonders of the natural environment.
In addition to the destinations featured here along the Parkway itself, the road weaves through historic towns offering a fascinating exploration of the communities’ heritage and culture along the way.
Explore Communities in the
Highlands Region
| Listed North to South | Milepost |
|---|---|
| Mt. Airy, Surry, Caldwell, & Wilkes County | 229 – 248 |
| Sparta & Alleghany County | 229 – 248 |
| Jefferson, West Jefferson, & Ashe County Area | 248.1 – 261 |
| Linville & Avery County | 291.9 |
| Boone & Watauga County | 291.9 – 294 |
| Blowing Rock Area | 293 – 298 |
| Banner Elk, Beech Mountain, & Sugar Mountain Area | 305.2 |
| Marion & McDowell County | 316 – 344 |
| Little Switzerland & Mitchell County | 331 – 334 |
Area Info
What to Do
Food & Drink
Stories from the Highlands Region
June 16, 2022
I bet most of us have an example of a vacation that didn’t go as planned. A road was closed, a parking lot was full, traffic slowed or halted your progress to your destination. It throws a wrench into your travel plans and can even derail your trip. So, what should you do to help prepare for the unexpected? Here are nine practical tips for planning a successful Blue Ridge Parkway road trip.
March 16, 2022
The trees are budding, the sun is shining, rain is falling (plus a few snowflakes, too!), and spring ephemerals are starting to peek out on the forest floor. It is spring in the Blue Ridge Mountains! Some sections of the Parkway may still be closed due to winter weather at high elevations, but check out all these amazing spring activities that you can enjoy without needing to access the Parkway!
Recommended Itineraries
2 - 3 days
Blowing Rock is located directly on the Blue Ridge Parkway, and is home to several iconic NC High Country attractions. It takes more than one day to tour some of the best-known sites. If you are looking for a sight-seeing adventure or just want to revisit your favorites, check out this itinerary!
1 day
The little town of Blowing Rock is surrounded by undeveloped lands, like a giant backyard to explore. This one-day itinerary takes in the views and the environment for a true Blue Ridge experience.