After spending a month soaking up Asheville’s artsy vibes, mountain hikes, and craft beer scene, it's time to move on to the next adventure—Annapolis! But rather than taking the direct (read: boring) route, let’s make this journey unforgettable with a scenic detour along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Waterfalls, swinging bridges, and epic mountain views await—so let’s hit the road!

Trip Highlights:

Stunning waterfalls at Linville Falls
Thrilling walk across the Mile High Swinging Bridge
Scenic drive up Grandfather Mountain
Up-close wildlife encounters at Grandfather Mountain Wildlife Habitats
Relaxing strolls through Moses H. Cone Memorial Park
Picturesque mountain towns and delicious food stops

Best Way to Drive This Route

Rental Car Tip: If you don’t have your own car, renting a small SUV is your best bet—great for winding mountain roads and unpredictable weather. AWD is a bonus! Check out Enterprise or Hertz in Asheville for affordable options.
Timing: To do this in one day, start early (around 7 AM) and aim to reach Annapolis by evening with scenic stops and a leisurely lunch. Breaking it into two days? Stay overnight near Boone or Roanoke for extra exploring.

Asheville, NC – Kickoff in the Coolest Mountain Town

Start your journey in Asheville, where artsy vibes meet Appalachian charm. Fuel up with a strong cup of coffee and a hearty breakfast. Before leaving town, take a quick detour to the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center for maps and up-to-date road conditions.

Stop 1: Plunge Basin & Linville Falls

Distance from Asheville: ~60 miles (<1.5 hours)
Time to stretch those legs with a short but rewarding hike! Plunge Basin Trail leads to a dramatic viewpoint of Linville Falls, one of the most photographed waterfalls in North Carolina. This natural wonder has long been a beloved stop on the Blue Ridge Parkway, with Indigenous Cherokee communities regarding the Linville River as sacred. Early European settlers marveled at the falls, and today, visitors continue to be captivated by its beauty.

If you’re feeling extra adventurous, trek down to the Linville River for a more secluded nature moment—just be mindful of slippery rocks!

Tip: Stick to marked trails and let a friend know your hiking plans before heading out.

Stop 2: Grandfather Mountain & Mile High Swinging Bridge

Distance: 20 miles (~30 minutes)
Ready for some adrenaline? Grandfather Mountain is home to the Mile High Swinging Bridge, a sky-high suspension bridge with unreal panoramic views. This iconic peak, named by pioneers who thought its rocky face resembled an old man’s profile, has long been a landmark of Appalachian folklore.

Scenic Drive: Take the breathtaking Grandfather Mountain Scenic Drive, winding through lush forests and steep inclines, leading to some of the best viewpoints in the Blue Ridge.
Wildlife Encounters: Stop at the Grandfather Mountain Wildlife Habitats, where you can see rescued black bears, bald eagles, cougars, river otters, and elk in their natural environments. This conservation-focused sanctuary provides an up-close look at the region’s most iconic wildlife while promoting environmental education.
Hiking Options: If you’re up for a challenge, tackle the Grandfather Trail, a rugged route with ladders and cables leading to the summit. Otherwise, enjoy the stunning views and soak in the mountain air.

Must-Snap Moment: Stand in the middle of the bridge and capture the 360-degree mountain views.

Stop 3: Moses H. Cone Memorial Park

Distance: 15 miles (~30 minutes)
Time to slow things down and soak in the serenity of this historic estate. Once the home of a wealthy textile entrepreneur, Moses H. Cone Memorial Park now offers peaceful carriage trails perfect for a leisurely stroll. Check out the Flat Top Manor, a stunning mansion-turned-craft-center showcasing local artisan work.

Restoration in Progress: During my visit, a major restoration of the exterior of Flat Top Manor was underway. The long-awaited transformation of this circa-1901 Colonial Revival home—once the centerpiece of the 3,500-acre estate—is finally happening! The estate was originally developed by Moses H. Cone, a textile magnate of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, who was also an inquisitive gentleman farmer experimenting with agriculture. Beginning in 1897, he carefully designed this stunning retreat with lakes, orchards, fields, forests, and a network of carriage trails. Before his untimely passing in 1908, he constructed Flat Top Manor as the centerpiece of this idyllic mountain getaway. For 40 years after his death, his wife, Bertha Cone, managed the estate, staying true to his vision. In 1950, the 3,500-acre estate became part of the Blue Ridge Parkway, ensuring its preservation for generations to come.

Onward to Annapolis: The Scenic Route Continues

Remaining Distance: ~400 miles (~7.5 hours)
As you wind your way toward Annapolis, make pit stops at cozy mountain towns, like Floyd, VA, for live bluegrass music, or grab a bite at Peaks of Otter Lodge overlooking Abbott Lake. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a scenic break at Shenandoah National Park for one last stretch before reaching the Chesapeake Bay.

Once you roll into Maryland’s capital, reward yourself with a seafood feast and a sunset stroll along the harbor.

This Asheville-to-Annapolis adventure is equal parts thrilling and tranquil, offering a little something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, conquering suspension bridges, or soaking in mountain air, the Blue Ridge Parkway delivers big time. So gas up, queue your favorite playlist, and hit the road —your adventure awaits! 🚗✨

Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip: Asheville to Annapolis