Top 10 Scenic Drives in Western North Carolina
Do you feel it? The days are getting longer and it’s the perfect time to hit the road for a good…long…drive. And as we know, Western North Carolina is a beautiful region of the United States known for its scenic drives that take visitors through lush forests, rolling hills, and picturesque towns. The region is particularly stunning during the fall, when the leaves on the trees turn golden and red, but it's worth visiting any time of year. Here are 10 scenic drives that you won't want to miss when you're in Western North Carolina:
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469-mile drive that stretches from Virginia to North Carolina. It's known as one of the most scenic drives in the United States, and it's easy to see why. Along the way, you'll pass through the Great Smoky Mountains and the Pisgah National Forest, and you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the Appalachian Mountains.
The Cherohala Skyway is a 43-mile drive that winds through the Cherokee National Forest and the Nantahala National Forest. The road climbs to an elevation of 5,390 feet, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
The Tail of the Dragon is an 11-mile stretch of road that runs along the border between Tennessee and North Carolina. It's known as one of the most challenging and exciting drives in the United States, with 318 curves in just 11 miles.
The Waterfall Byway is a 98-mile drive that takes visitors through the Nantahala National Forest and the Pisgah National Forest. As the name suggests, the drive features several stunning waterfalls, including the 411-foot Whitewater Falls.
The Mount Mitchell Scenic Byway is a 52-mile drive that takes visitors to the summit of Mount Mitchell, which is the highest peak in the Eastern United States. Along the way, you'll pass through the Pisgah National Forest and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
The Newfound Gap Road is a 33-mile drive that takes visitors through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The road reaches an elevation of 5,046 feet at Newfound Gap, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Diamondback Motorcycle and Sports Car Route
The Diamondback Motorcycle and Sports Car Route is a 12-mile drive that features 190 curves. The road takes visitors through the Pisgah National Forest, and it's a popular destination for motorcycle riders and sports car enthusiasts.
The Copperhead Loop is a 50-mile drive that takes visitors through the Blue Ridge Mountains. Along the way, you'll pass through several small towns and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
The Rattler is a 209-mile drive that takes visitors through the Appalachian Mountains. The road features several hairpin turns and steep climbs, and it's a popular destination for motorcycle riders.
The Great Smoky Mountains Loop
The Great Smoky Mountains Loop is a 141-mile drive that takes visitors through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Along the way, you'll pass through several small towns and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
From the challenging curves of the Tail of the Dragon to the stunning views from the summit of Mount Mitchell, there's something for everyone. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to explore the natural beauty of Western North Carolina.