We were hoping to do the Grandfather Trail on Grandfather Mountain but the rain and wind made it too dangerous. Instead we chose to do the Rough Ridge Trail, Blue Ridge Parkway, milepost 302.8. (1.6 total mile out and back, 480’ elevation). A 1/3 of a mile up there’s a boardwalk that protects delicate vegetation and there’s a cable (if you need it) near the summit (4,773 ft. elevation). The rock outcrops are a great place to enjoy the incredible views of the surrounding mountains. This trail is very popular. Hiking it on a wet and windy day is a great way to have it to ourselves.

https://littletravelchannel.com/how-to-avoid-crowds-when-hiking/
https://ashevilletrails.com/blue-ridge-parkway/rough-ridge-hike/

8

difficulty: 3.5

We went back to the hotel for lunch and a short nap.

We picked up dinner from Mellow Mushroom and brought it to Julien Price Park Picnic Area to have dinner by the river in the sun.

https://mellowmushroom.com/location/nc-blowing-rock-946-main-st-28605/?utm_source=gmb&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=BlowingRock-NC&utm_content=74

7.5

We went for a walk around Julian Price Lake (2.3 mile loop, 72’)

https://www.nps.gov/blri/planyourvisit/julian-price-park-mp-297.htm

6.7

difficulty: 1

Then we drove back to the hotel and walked to town to window shop and get treats from Kilwins.

https://littletravelchannel.com/blowing-rock-nc-travel-guide