Tanawha Trail

The full 13.5-mile (21.7 km) trail typically takes between 5 to 7 hours to complete point-to-point. However, many access points along the Blue Ridge Parkway allow you to hike shorter sections, which will take less time.

The trail offers incredibly diverse terrain, ranging from dense thickets of mountain laurel and rhododendron to remote hardwood coves and evergreen glens. You'll encounter boulder fields, cascading streams, rocky landscapes with poplars and oaks, and sections with flat rocks resembling a flagstone path. Man-made bridges and boardwalks are also present to protect fragile areas.

The trail is renowned for its stunning views. Key highlights include breathtaking panoramas into the Piedmont region from Rough Ridge, outstanding glimpses of the iconic Linn Cove Viaduct (which the trail passes under and alongside), and views of prominent mountains like Grandmother Mountain, Hawksbill, and Table Mountain. Don't miss the Rough Ridge Lookout for expansive vistas.

Overall, the Tanawha Trail is considered an easy to moderate hike. However, it does contain strenuous sections, particularly above the Linn Cove Viaduct and along Rough Ridge. These parts involve steep climbs, stone steps, and rocky scrambles. The elevation ranges from 3,400 feet at Price Lake to 4,700 feet atop Rough Ridge.

The trail stretches from Julian Price Park to Beacon Heights. There are numerous access points along the Blue Ridge Parkway where you can park and join the trail. Popular starting points include Julian Price Park and the parking areas near the Linn Cove Viaduct and Rough Ridge Lookout.

The trail is beautiful year-round, but spring brings blooming wildflowers and rhododendrons, while autumn offers spectacular fall foliage. Summer provides lush greenery and cooler temperatures at higher elevations. Winter hiking is possible, but be prepared for colder conditions and potential ice or snow, especially at higher altitudes.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the Tanawha Trail. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure the safety and enjoyment of all trail users. Please remember to pack out all pet waste.

No, there are no permits required or entrance fees to hike the Tanawha Trail or to drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway. It is free to access and enjoy. However, always check the National Park Service website for any current alerts or temporary closures.

Yes, the Tanawha Trail is largely incorporated into North Carolina's Mountains-to-Sea Trail (MST), specifically Segment 5. You may see both the hawk feather icon of the Tanawha Trail and the white dot blaze of the MST for navigation. It also briefly intersects with the Upper Boone Fork Trail, Cragway Loop, and Asutsi Trail.

While the full 13.5-mile trail has strenuous sections, many shorter, less demanding sections are accessible from various points along the Blue Ridge Parkway, making it suitable for families or beginners. For example, the sections around Julian Price Park or shorter out-and-back hikes to viewpoints like Rough Ridge Lookout can be excellent options.

The Tanawha Trail is notable for its unique construction, including bridges dropped by helicopter, and its ability to showcase an incredibly diverse range of ecosystems within its 13.5-mile length. It offers an unparalleled tour of the vibrant biodiversity of the Blue Ridge Mountains, blending natural beauty with engineering marvels like the Linn Cove Viaduct.