Lake at western part of dam
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Julian Price Memorial Park

4.8
·2k reviews·Blowing Rock, United States

A serene mountain park featuring a 47-acre lake, scenic trails, picnic areas, and access to the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Fall mornings

Vibrant foliage, fewer crowds

CrowdMedium
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Lake at western part of dam

Julian Price Memorial Park

Best Time

Fall mornings

Vibrant foliage, fewer crowds

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene mountain park featuring a 47-acre lake, scenic trails, picnic areas, and access to the Blue Ridge Parkway.

4.8
(2k reviews)

"This is one of our favorite places to go ever since my childhood and now taking our grandchildren."

Vertical photo
TIP

Pack for all weather

Mountain weather changes fast! Bring layers, rain gear, and sturdy shoes for trails. :athletic_shoe:

Check restroom status

Restrooms can be closed. Bring your own TP and hand sanitizer just in case. :toilet:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Price Lake Loop Trail

Price Lake Loop Trail

Julian Price Memorial Park

A scenic 2.7-mile loop around a 47-acre lake, perfect for easy hikes and stunning mountain reflections.

Boone Fork Trail

Boone Fork Trail

Julian Price Memorial Park

A 5-mile adventure with creek crossings, rock scrambles, and waterfalls, offering a more challenging hike.

Sims Pond Overlook

Sims Pond Overlook

Milepost 295.9, Blue Ridge Parkway

Starting point for the Green Knob Trail, offering peaceful views and a gateway to forest exploration.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Peak Beauty

Fall foliage transforms Julian Price Memorial Park into a vibrant spectacle, drawing crowds. For a more serene experience, aim for weekdays or early mornings, especially during peak autumn months. Consider visiting outside of major holidays to avoid the busiest times.

Navigating Park Amenities

While the park offers beautiful trails and picnic spots, be aware that restroom facilities have experienced closures and maintenance issues. It's wise to check the latest status or come prepared with your own supplies. Boat rentals are available for lake enjoyment.

Best Times

When
Fall mornings
Why
Vibrant foliage, fewer crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Quieter trails, ample parking
Crowd
Low
When
Summer weekdays
Why
Pleasant for lake activities
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

There’s nothing quite like soaking in the last days of the fall season with the sunrise on the BRP 🤍 #sunriseinthemountains #sunrisehike #blueridgemountains #blueridgeparkway #blowingrocknc
@morganaugusta
51.9K likes • 610K views

Pack for all weather

Mountain weather changes fast! Bring layers, rain gear, and sturdy shoes for trails. :athletic_shoe:

Check restroom status

Restrooms can be closed. Bring your own TP and hand sanitizer just in case. :toilet:

Prayer tree in Blowing Rock, NC. The building caught fire last year but not a single prayer was burned 🤍 #nc #northcarolina #mountains #travel #gsmnp
@mirandamoomoo
26.2K likes • 168.2K views
🍁Price Lake at Julian Price Memorial Park along the Blue Ridge Parkway near Blowing Rock is a haven for relaxation and recreation with the 47-acre Price Lake as its focal point. . . 💦 This popular spot supports camping, fishing, kayaking, and a number of hiking trails including the easy 2.7 mile Price Lake Trail that loops around the beautiful Price Lake. . . 🥾 An easy 2.3-mile loop around Price L...
travel_buggednc
70 likes • 653 views

Embrace lake activities

Rent kayaks or canoes for a peaceful paddle on Price Lake. :kayak:

Respect wildlife

Bear-proof trash cans are present; keep food secure. :bear:

Grab your hiking buddy and discover the beautiful views of Julian Price Memorial Park 🍃
capital.vacations
9 likes • 583 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Pack for all weather

Mountain weather changes fast! Bring layers, rain gear, and sturdy shoes for trails. :athletic_shoe:

Check restroom status

Restrooms can be closed. Bring your own TP and hand sanitizer just in case. :toilet:

Embrace lake activities

Rent kayaks or canoes for a peaceful paddle on Price Lake. :kayak:

Respect wildlife

Bear-proof trash cans are present; keep food secure. :bear:

Capture the sunrise

Early mornings offer stunning mountain sunrises, especially in fall. :sunrise:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Julian Price Memorial Park for its stunning natural beauty, particularly Price Lake and the surrounding mountain vistas, making it a beloved spot for generations. However, recurring issues with restroom maintenance and occasional trail damage detract from the otherwise idyllic experience.

"This is one of our favorite places to go ever since my childhood and now taking our grandchildren. Picnic area is open and accessible and has been reasonably maintained. There is still damaged from Helene that has not been corrected and the bathrooms are not working. They do have porta johns that are clean but it is very surprising they have not made the repairs needed. The park service should definitely invest in making these repairs as soon as possible"

Bryan Beaty

"July 19, 2025. Strange my review is centered around the restroom access.
Park is ok if you don't need a restroom. Restroom buildings are closed. 2 port-a-johns - nasty. No toilet paper. We were disappointed.
Bring your own TP.
Front-load trash dumpster has a sign to latch it due to bears in the area. Latch broken. Door will open easily.
Once these items are "fixed", it's a nice park."

Skipper Pond

"Great views! Peaceful. Parking area and a sidewalk to capture stunning views. My photos are doing this area a disservice because the place is gorgeous. There are little cut out areas to capture different views of the area (not shown on my photos). The parking area was big enough to hold several cars and it was easy to navigate. Go! Explore!"

N Robinson

What People Like

Beautiful lake and mountain views
Peaceful atmosphere
Great hiking trails

What People Dislike

Restroom closures and maintenance
Damaged facilities
Inconsistent trail upkeep

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Julian Price Memorial Park is located directly on the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 297. If driving from Blowing Rock, NC, take US-321 N and turn right onto the Blue Ridge Parkway. The park is a short drive from the town. Instagram

The Blue Ridge Parkway is generally open year-round, but sections can close temporarily due to ice, snow, or maintenance. Always check the official Blue Ridge Parkway website for current road conditions before your visit. Instagram

The charming towns of Blowing Rock and Boone, North Carolina, are the closest communities to Julian Price Memorial Park, offering lodging, dining, and shopping options. TikTok

Public transportation options are very limited in this mountainous region. A personal vehicle or rental car is highly recommended for reaching Julian Price Memorial Park and exploring the Blue Ridge Parkway. Instagram

Yes, the park is situated along the Blue Ridge Parkway, which is famous for its numerous scenic overlooks. Sims Pond Overlook (Milepost 295.9) is adjacent to the park and offers beautiful views. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Julian Price Memorial Park is a public park and does not typically charge an entrance fee. Access to the park and its trails is generally free. Instagram

The park is generally open from dawn to dusk. However, specific facilities like campgrounds or visitor centers may have their own operating hours. It's best to check the National Park Service website for the most up-to-date information. Instagram

Picnic areas are usually available on a first-come, first-served basis. During peak seasons or weekends, arriving early is advised to secure a spot, especially for larger groups. Reddit

Fishing licenses are typically required by the state of North Carolina. For boating on Price Lake, rentals are available within the park, but personal watercraft regulations may apply. Check with park staff or the NPS website for specifics. Instagram

The Flintlock Campground within Julian Price Memorial Park may have seasonal closures. Recent reviews indicate it might be closed for repairs. It's crucial to verify its operational status before planning a camping trip. InstagramReddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The Price Lake Loop Trail (2.7 miles) is a popular, easy hike around the lake. For a more challenging experience, the Boone Fork Trail (5 miles) offers creek crossings and rock scrambles. The Green Knob Trail starts near Sims Pond. Instagram+2

Yes, kayak and canoe rentals are often available at Price Lake within Julian Price Memorial Park, allowing visitors to enjoy the water and surrounding scenery. Instagram

The park features numerous quaint picnic spots, many situated by the creek, offering a lovely setting for a meal amidst nature. Reddit

You might encounter various birds, squirrels, and other small forest creatures. Keep an eye out for deer, and remember to be bear-aware, especially around trash receptacles. Reddit

Yes, the Price Lake Loop Trail is relatively flat and easy, making it suitable for families. The Boone Fork Trail has more challenging sections but can be fun for adventurous kids. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Price Lake offers stunning reflections, especially during sunrise and fall. The overlooks along the Blue Ridge Parkway near the park, like Sims Pond, also provide excellent vantage points for capturing mountain vistas. TikTokInstagram

Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for landscape photography. Fall colors, typically peaking in October, provide a vibrant backdrop for any shot. TikTokInstagram

The Price Lake Loop Trail provides consistent lake views. The Boone Fork Trail offers opportunities to photograph waterfalls and interesting rock formations. Instagram+1

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain scenery and lake views. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Don't forget a tripod for low-light conditions or long exposures. :camerawithflash:

Drone usage is regulated within National Park Service areas. Generally, drones are prohibited in Julian Price Memorial Park to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check current NPS regulations. :drone:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Julian Price Memorial Park is a fantastic destination for families. The Price Lake Loop Trail is an easy, relatively flat 2.7-mile hike that's perfect for little legs and strollers, offering constant lake views. Instagram+1 The Boone Fork Trail, while longer and more rugged, can be an exciting adventure for older children with its creek crossings and rock scrambles. Instagram

Picnic areas are plentiful and provide a great spot for a family meal. Remember to pack snacks and drinks, and be prepared for potential restroom closures by bringing your own supplies. The opportunity to rent kayaks or canoes on Price Lake can also be a memorable experience for the whole family. InstagramReddit

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts

For avid hikers, Julian Price Memorial Park offers rewarding trails like the Boone Fork Trail, a 5-mile loop known for its varied terrain and natural obstacles. Instagram The Green Knob Trail provides a moderately strenuous option through dense forest. Instagram The park's location on the Blue Ridge Parkway also means easy access to countless other hiking opportunities in the surrounding mountains. Instagram

Nature lovers will appreciate the diverse plant life, potential wildlife sightings, and the stunning mountain scenery, especially during the vibrant fall foliage season. TikTokInstagram Remember to check trail conditions, as sections can be affected by weather and maintenance. Reddit

📸 Photographers

Photographers will find ample inspiration at Julian Price Memorial Park. Price Lake is a prime subject, offering beautiful reflections of the mountains, particularly during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. TikTokInstagram The fall colors transform the landscape into a photographer's dream. Instagram

Overlooks along the Blue Ridge Parkway, such as Sims Pond Overlook, provide panoramic vistas perfect for landscape shots. Instagram The trails themselves offer opportunities to capture intimate forest scenes, waterfalls, and interesting natural textures. Instagram Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for expansive views and a tripod for low-light photography. [^camerawithflash:]

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Trails of Julian Price Memorial Park

Julian Price Memorial Park is a hiker's paradise, offering a variety of trails catering to different fitness levels. The Price Lake Loop Trail is a gentle, 2.7-mile path that encircles the park's namesake lake. It's perfect for a leisurely stroll, offering continuous views of the water and surrounding mountains, making it ideal for families and those seeking a relaxed outdoor experience. Instagram+1

For those craving a bit more adventure, the Boone Fork Trail presents a more challenging 5-mile loop. This trail is known for its dynamic terrain, featuring multiple creek crossings, rock scrambles, and even ladders and ropes in some sections. It winds through dense forest and offers glimpses of waterfalls, providing a more immersive wilderness experience. Instagram+1

Another notable trail is the Green Knob Trail, accessible from the Sims Pond Overlook. This moderately strenuous 2.4-mile loop takes hikers through rhododendron thickets and old-growth timber, showcasing the diverse flora of the region. Instagram+1 Remember to wear appropriate footwear and carry water, as trail conditions can vary, especially after inclement weather. Reddit

Water Activities on Price Lake

Price Lake, a 47-acre gem within Julian Price Memorial Park, is a central hub for water-based recreation. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful paddle by renting kayaks or canoes directly from the park. These rentals offer a fantastic way to experience the tranquility of the lake and gain unique perspectives of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains. Instagram

The lake is also a popular spot for fishing, with opportunities to catch various species. Anglers should ensure they have the necessary North Carolina fishing licenses. The calm waters make it an enjoyable experience for both seasoned fishermen and beginners looking to cast a line. Instagram

While swimming is generally not permitted in Price Lake due to its use for boating and fishing, the overall atmosphere around the lake is one of serene natural beauty. It's a perfect place to relax, enjoy a picnic by the water's edge, or simply soak in the mountain air. Instagram

The Charm of Blowing Rock and Nearby Attractions

Julian Price Memorial Park is conveniently located near the picturesque town of Blowing Rock, NC, often lauded as a top fall destination. This charming mountain town offers a delightful escape with its unique shops, local eateries, and a friendly, small-town atmosphere that feels like stepping into a storybook. TikTok+1

Beyond the park and Blowing Rock, the Blue Ridge Parkway itself is an attraction, offering breathtaking vistas and access to other natural wonders. Nearby, you can explore Grandfather Mountain State Park for more challenging hikes and iconic views, or visit the Linn Cove Viaduct for a marvel of engineering. Instagram

For those interested in unique local spots, the 'Prayer Tree' in Blowing Rock has gained attention, a testament to resilience after a fire. TikTok+1 The region is rich with opportunities for outdoor adventure and scenic exploration, making Julian Price Memorial Park a perfect base for a broader North Carolina mountain getaway. Instagram

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