Appalachian Mountain Views Near Roanoke, Virginia
Driving along Blue Ridge Parkway in the Appalachian Mountains opens opportunities for explorers of all abilities. Whether you stay in your car, take a beginner-level trail, or challenge your hiking skills, there is something for you. Here is your guide to enjoying the magnificent Appalachian Mountain views near Roanoke, Virginia.
Challenging Hikes Near Roanoke
Sharp Top Mountain
Just off the parkway are some of the most difficult hikes in Virginia like Sharp Top Mountain. Although it’s steep and rocky terrain makes for a challenging journey, it offers far greater rewards. The 3.1-mile there-and-back trail provides a variety of natural scenes, culminating at the 3,875-foot summit. At the peak, enjoy a beautiful 360 view of the Peaks of Otter, making for beautiful sunrise and sunset mountain scenes.
McAfee Knob
Right along the Appalachian Trail is a stunning long-distance hike to McAfee Knob. The 8-mile round-trip trail leads to the highly photographed and nationally recognized hiking location overlooking the Catawba Valley. If you look closely, you can see Sharp Top!
Road Trip Stops on Blueridge Parkway
Just as stunning, though, are the views from overlook locations like 20-Minute Cliff, Porter Mountain, and Mills Gap. See high-elevation views of sunsets and sunrises along the mountain ridges from paved parking lots with no hiking needed. These locations are great for families or pulling over on your Blueridge Parkway road-trip while you enjoy the scenery from your vehicle.
Beginner-Friendly Trails.
Harkening Hill
For beginner to moderate explorers who want to tackle a trail and not feel it for days after, Harkening Hill offers a beautiful trail hike and gorgeous landscapes. The smallest of the three Peaks of Otter, the hike to Harkening Hill is a fun experience with three trail options:
● 2.8-mile there-and-back trek from the Visitors Center
● 3.2-mile loop from the Peaks of Otter Lodge to the Visitors Center
● 3.6-mile Johnson Farm Loop
Regardless of your abilities, there’s an adventure for all types of explorers in Appalachia. Visit the mountains and drive down Blue Ridge Parkway to see these spectacular views for yourself. And view the latest issue of Compass Ohio to find more adventures across Ohio and beyond.
