Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 364.4 – 367.6: Craggy Gardens
Twisted, jagged, rocky “crags” give Craggy Gardens its name, but these high elevation summits are home to the most spectacular floral display along the 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway corridor. For generations, visitors have headed for the Craggies in June, typically the prime time for viewing the pink and purple blooms of Catawba rhododendrons that blanket the area.
Don’t despair if you miss the peak bloom of the rhododendron. Violets, blackberry, May-apple, and Turkscap lily burst onto the scene with color in this high-altitude portion of the Parkway.
The Craggy Gardens Visitor Center is located at Milepost 364.4, with the spur to Craggy Gardens trails and picnic area at 367.6.
What to Do
- Explore exhibits on the natural history of the region at the visitor center – open seasonally
- Take a short hike up Craggy Pinnacle trail and witness a stunning 360-view of seemingly endless peaks and forested slopes – see area map below
- Enjoy a picnic amid natural beauty – restrooms open seasonally
- Visit nearby Mount Mitchell, the highest point east of the Mississippi
- Check out the other nearby hiking trails
ADA Accessibility
- visitor center is wheelchair accessible
- exhibits are wheelchair accessible
- picnic area is wheelchair accessible with assistance
