If you want to get amazing views of Linville Gorge, you can find them along many of the trails of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Head to the top of North Carolina’s Hawksbill Mountain in just about any season (except in the blistering cold, maybe) and you’re sure to love the hike itself as much as the panoramic views of Linville Gorge once you reach the summit. The hike to the top is just shy of a mile and doles out a bit of an uphill scramble through a forested trail lined with rhododendrons.
If you’re up for a bit of a stamina challenge, then this moderate trail is just for you.
Google local/DA MOFF
From the parking area to the top, the elevation gain is right at 600 feet. Wear your ankle boots and prepare for an uphill adventure.
alltrails/Bill Watson
In the hottest of months, the trail offers ample shade to help combat the heat; and on cold and windy days, the trees and other vegetation offer some welcome shelter from the elements.
Google local/Steven Pfitzer
One of the best parts of the trail during the spring and summer is all of the rhododendron plants that are found on this side of Hawksbill Mountain.
alltrails/Mike Traylor
Anything but easy, the trail doles out a few technical challenges. Expect some moments like this one, where the trail seems to taper down to a skinny stack of shifty-looking rocks. Just focus on your footing and trust the process…
TripAdvisor/Gary A
…and you’ll soon be at the top.
Google local/P. B.
From up here, all things seem possible. The summit of Hawksbill Mountain may be the most favorite spot of photographers from near and afar. And it’s so easy to see why.
alltrails/Lynn Pollard
You may even encounter some who have set up camp in order to capture the beauty of Linville Gorge at sunrise. (It is breathtaking!)
alltrails/Kevin Ball
Have you hiked to the top of Hawksbill Mountain yet? What are you waiting for? Let’s go!
alltrails/Cortney Ferrand
What’s your favorite Parkway overlook or trail side view of Linville Gorge?
Google local/DA MOFF
alltrails/Bill Watson
Google local/Steven Pfitzer
alltrails/Mike Traylor
TripAdvisor/Gary A
Google local/P. B.
alltrails/Lynn Pollard
alltrails/Kevin Ball
alltrails/Cortney Ferrand
The trail to Hawksbill Mountain is 1.8 miles long and is rated moderate. It’s probably not suited to small children or novice hikers. As always: bring plenty of water, hike with a companion (when you can), and don’t leave a trace. Find out more at this link from our friends at alltrails.com. Find a Google maps link to the trailhead at this link.
Trailhead Address: Table Rock Road, Nebo, NC, 28761
For another awesome (and shorter) hike that delivers amazing views of the Linville Gorge, read all about the Wiseman’s View Overlook in this previous article.
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