Looking Glass Rock Overlook
Stunning Blue Ridge Parkway overlook offering panoramic mountain vistas and a short hike to Skinny Dip Falls.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Serene views, fewer crowds
Looking Glass Rock Overlook
Best Time
Serene views, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Stunning Blue Ridge Parkway overlook offering panoramic mountain vistas and a short hike to Skinny Dip Falls.
"Awesome overlook, literally no reason not to stop and enjoy the view for a minute."
Pack a Picnic 🍕
Enjoy your meal with an incredible backdrop. Many visitors find it a great lunch stop.
Check Trail Conditions 🚶️
Skinny Dip Falls may be affected by recent flooding; check local updates before visiting.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Mountain Vistas
Main Overlook Area
Breathtaking views of rugged mountains and the iconic Looking Glass Rock. Perfect for a quick stop or a picnic.
Skinny Dip Falls
Across the Blue Ridge Parkway
A popular, though sometimes altered, swimming hole and scenic spot accessible via a short trail.
Sunrise Spectacle
Main Overlook Area
Witness the sky ignite with color over the mountains for a truly magical start to your day.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Beyond the Overlook
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack a Picnic 🍕
Enjoy your meal with an incredible backdrop. Many visitors find it a great lunch stop.
Check Trail Conditions 🚶️
Skinny Dip Falls may be affected by recent flooding; check local updates before visiting.
Sunrise Magic 🌅
Arrive early for stunning sunrise views and a peaceful experience.
Dog-Friendly 🐶
Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for hiking companions.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack a Picnic 🍕
Enjoy your meal with an incredible backdrop. Many visitors find it a great lunch stop.
Check Trail Conditions 🚶️
Skinny Dip Falls may be affected by recent flooding; check local updates before visiting.
Sunrise Magic 🌅
Arrive early for stunning sunrise views and a peaceful experience.
Dog-Friendly 🐶
Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for hiking companions.
Slippery Surfaces 💨
Be cautious on wet or icy surfaces, especially near the rock faces.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Looking Glass Rock Overlook for its stunning, easily accessible mountain views and its convenient location on the Blue Ridge Parkway. It's a popular spot for picnics and a quick stop to appreciate the scenery. Some note that Skinny Dip Falls, located across the road, has been impacted by recent flooding, altering its appearance and accessibility.
"Great spot on the blue ridge parkway to grab lunch, checkout an awesome view of Looking Glass Rock and hike skinny dip falls. Note, as of June 2022, skinny dip falls has been heavily impacted by flooding, rearranging the swimming hole and washing out the main bridge - not as easily accessible for swimming as it used to be"
Forrest Cory
"Definitely a nice spot to relax after a long hike. The view was beautiful."
D S
"Great view of looking glass rock. Was cool to see from this angle after previously hiking it."
J B
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The overlook is conveniently located on the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 320.8. It's easily accessible by car, with a parking area right off the parkway. If you're coming from Brevard, NC, it's about a 20-30 minute drive.
Yes, Looking Glass Rock Overlook is situated directly on the Blue Ridge Parkway, offering stunning mountain scenery.
The overlook is marked at Milepost 320.8 on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
The Blue Ridge Parkway can experience closures due to winter weather. It's always best to check road conditions before your visit.
Yes, there is a designated parking area directly at the overlook, making it easy to stop and enjoy the views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Looking Glass Rock Overlook is a public viewpoint on the Blue Ridge Parkway and does not require an entrance fee or ticket.
The overlook is accessible 24/7 as it's an outdoor viewpoint along the Blue Ridge Parkway. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and the best views.
There is no admission fee to visit Looking Glass Rock Overlook. It's a free public access point.
The overlook provides a view of Looking Glass Rock, but the main hike to the summit of Looking Glass Rock is a separate, more strenuous trail (approximately 6.5 miles roundtrip) that starts elsewhere.
General parkway rules apply. Please respect the natural environment, pack out what you pack in, and be mindful of other visitors.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy stunning panoramic views, take photos, have a picnic, and access the short trail to Skinny Dip Falls across the parkway.
The trail to Skinny Dip Falls is generally considered a short and relatively easy walk from the overlook.
Expect breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains, including views of Looking Glass Rock itself.
It can get crowded, especially on weekends and during peak seasons. Visiting early in the morning or on weekdays can help avoid the largest crowds.
Yes, dogs are welcome at the overlook and on the trails as long as they are kept on a leash.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Sunrise offers magical light and fewer people.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain views. A tripod can be helpful for sunrise/sunset shots.
The main viewing area offers the primary vistas. For different angles, explore the short path towards Skinny Dip Falls.
Drone usage is subject to National Park Service regulations. Check current FAA and park guidelines before flying.
The dramatic peaks, rolling hills, and the changing colors of the sky during sunrise and sunset are prime subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the main overlook is accessible, the trail to Skinny Dip Falls across the parkway is also a relatively short and manageable walk for families. However, be aware of potential changes to the falls' accessibility due to recent flooding.
+1 Always supervise children closely, especially near any water features or steep drop-offs. The overlook provides a safe and accessible way to experience the beauty of the mountains without a strenuous hike.🚗 Day-Trippers & Road-Trippers
Combine your visit with a short walk to Skinny Dip Falls
or simply enjoy a packed lunch at the scenic picnic spots. It's an excellent place to break up a longer drive, offering a memorable vista that captures the essence of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Many travelers find it a refreshing pause on their journey. 🐶 Dog Owners
This allows your dog to enjoy the fresh mountain air and scenic beauty alongside you. It's a perfect spot for a quick walk or a longer break during a road trip. The relatively short distances involved mean your dog can get some exercise without an overly demanding hike. Just remember to clean up after your pet and ensure they are comfortable with other dogs and people, as it can get busy.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Skinny Dip Falls
+1 Always check for the latest conditions before planning your visit.Despite the changes, the short walk to the falls still offers a scenic experience. It's a great addition to a visit to the overlook, providing a chance to connect with the natural beauty of the Pisgah National Forest. The trail itself is generally considered an easy to moderate walk, suitable for most visitors looking for a brief nature escape.
Remember to tread lightly and respect the environment. Pack out everything you bring in to help preserve this beautiful spot for others. The accessibility and appearance of the falls can change, so managing expectations is key when visiting.
The Iconic Hike to Looking Glass Rock Summit
This hike is considered strenuous and requires good physical condition. It's a popular choice for those looking for a more immersive mountain experience in the Pisgah National Forest. Hikers often describe the ascent as rewarding, with the summit offering unparalleled vistas of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains.
If you plan to tackle the summit hike, be prepared with plenty of water, snacks, sturdy hiking boots, and a map. The trail can be rocky and steep in sections. It's a commitment, but the breathtaking views from the top make it a memorable adventure for experienced hikers.
Photography at Looking Glass Rock Overlook
+1 The soft, diffused light of dawn can create a serene and ethereal atmosphere, perfect for capturing the grandeur of the mountains. For those who prefer golden hour, late afternoons also offer spectacular lighting. The warm, angled sunlight can highlight the textures of the mountains and create dramatic shadows. A wide-angle lens is highly recommended to capture the full scope of the vista. Consider bringing a tripod to ensure sharp images, especially during low-light conditions or if you plan to capture long exposures of the sky.
Beyond the sweeping landscapes, don't forget to look for smaller details. The unique rock formations, the changing foliage throughout the seasons, and the mist that often settles in the valleys can all make for compelling photographic subjects. Remember to be respectful of the environment and other visitors while you're capturing your shots.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit