The Great Craggy Mountains are one of North Carolina’s half dozen 6,000 foot mountain ranges located just 20 miles northeast of Asheville. Referred to as “The Craggies”, there are two popular trails with stunning views: the easy Craggy Gardens Trail and the even shorter Craggy Pinnacle Trail. These trailheads can be reached via the Blue Ridge Parkway as America’s favorite drive takes you along the ridgeline up to mile high summits and overlooks.
CONTENTS
00:00 Intro Teaser
00:47 Map & Overview
01:36 Craggy Gardens
02:28 CCC Shelter
03:57 Visitor Center
04:49 Gazebo
05:20 Back at the Car
05:47 Craggy Pinnacle
06:35 Overlook
07:46 Heading Back
The Craggies are a favorite among hikers as they form half of the Swannanoa Rim, "Eastern America's highest and most historic skyline." The elevation rise of over 3500 feet combined with grassy balds make for impressive viewing of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Craggy Gardens provides incredible floral displays with pink and purple Catawba rhododendron blooms from mid-June to July as well as stunning fall foliage in early October. The Craggy Pinnacle offers a rocky summit with an impressive stone wall overlook and heart pounding panoramic views.