Blue Ridge Parkway

Milepost 258-259

World Famous Frescoes by noted artist, Ben Long at Glendale Springs, NC Episcopal churches. Also Northwest Trading Post locally made gift and food store on Parkway.

Mount Jefferson State Natural Area

PO Box 48, Jefferson, NC 28640

Phone: (336) 246-9653

Mount Jefferson rises abruptly to more than 1,600 feet above the surrounding landscape, serving as a landmark for area motorists. Acquaint yourself with this mighty peak by viewing it first from the Mount Jefferson Overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Rising as a long, forested prominence, its dark color is conspicuous among neighboring peaks on the Ashe plateau.

Though the mountain is magnificent from a distance, Mount Jefferson is best appreciated up close. On a clear day, you can see for miles from its peak. A great part of Ashe County spreads out below; fields, farms, forests and mountains mingle in kaleidoscopic patterns. On the horizon, the Blue Ridge Mountains form a striking backdrop.

Yet, what looms in the distance is no more spectacular than what is right before your eyes, for the forests of Mount Jefferson are a botanical paradise. The interesting and unusual plant life of the park rendered it worthy of designation as a national natural landmark.

Enjoy Hiking, Picnicking, and Restrooms

Milepost 272
Landmark: E.B. Jeffress Park

Picnic area, comfort station and trail to Cascades.

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