Waterrock Knob: A Beautiful Hike on the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina

If you are looking for a short hike or just a beautiful place to stop and watch the sun rise or set along the Blue Ridge Parkway, Waterrock Knob may be your place.

Waterrock Knob is located at mile post 451 and from either side of the parking lot you or your family can enjoy stunning views. The Knob, as it is coined by the locals, is managed by the U.S. Park Service and has a facility on site.

The Knob is the 16th tallest peak in elevation in the Eastern United States, and on clear days you can see down into Maggie Valley and into Tennessee from the Summit.

The trail begins at the base of the parking lot and is only .6 miles to the summit, 1.2 miles round trip. The grade of the trail begins sharply. You will cover over 125 feet of elevation change in the first quarter mile. After the second switchback, you will come to a beautifully crafted masonry overlook with an outstanding view, particularly during the fall season. The trail will be paved up to this point.

Shortly after the overlook, the trail will become an old dried out creek bed. Some of the rocks are loose and there are two places you will have to basically climb up. These two places are not strenuous, but there is some risk. After climbing up the second rock, the trail will switch back to the right shortly afterward. It is easy to miss this short trail leading to the summit in the summertime because of tree and plant growth.

You are at Waterrock Knob’s summit coming to the top. Shade trees and a bench provide a perfect spot for a romantic picnic, meditation, or just to relax and catch your breath. You will have to move toward sides of the Knob to catch the views, but they are well worth it.

Though fairly short, this trail is intermediate. People with certain health problems should proceed at their own risk. Small children may consider this trail a challenge, but it should be suitable for ages 6 and up. Closed toe shoes should only be worn. Poison oak is plentiful along the trail and be mindful of snakes, as with any other trail.


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