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A relatively short run for great views on the lookout tower.


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Map Key

0.8

Miles

1.2

KM

82%

Runnable

5,294' 1,614 m

High

4,947' 1,508 m

Low

347' 106 m

Up

0' 0 m

Down

9%

Avg Grade (5°)

12%

Max Grade (7°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Fall Colors · Views

This section of Blue Ridge Parkway is usually closed during the winter.

Description

Park at trailhead (milepost 409.6). There is a gate (always closed) - do not block the gate. Cross the gate and follow an old road up to the lookout tower. The road gradually climbs. Once you reach the top, a clearing will give you some views if you are too nervous to climb up the lookout tower. It can get windy up there, so it might be a good idea to add a layer before you climb up! The lookout tower sways and may make some feel uneasy, but it is relatively safe to use. You get great 360-degree views and there are spectacular fall color in October.

Flora & Fauna

Rhododendrons, mountain laurels, maples, pines and rudbeckias. Birds and deer.

Contacts

Shared By:

Michelle Kras with improvements by Jean-Claude Linossi

Trail Ratings

  4.4 from 11 votes

#10

in Asheville

#7264

Overall
  4.4 from 11 votes
5 Star
45%
4 Star
45%
3 Star
9%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Trail Rankings

#10

in Asheville

#237

in North Carolina

#7,264

Overall
5 Views Last Month
662 Since Jan 9, 2016
Intermediate Intermediate

0%
8%
83%
8%
0%
0%

Photos

From the lookout tower in October - beautiful fall color.
Jan 9, 2016 near Mills R…, NC
The road you head up...
Jan 9, 2016 near Mills R…, NC
Fryingpan Mountain Lookout Tower.
Jan 9, 2016 near Mills R…, NC
David entering Frying Pan Mountain Lookout Tower.
Jan 13, 2016 near Mills R…, NC

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Weather


Current Trail Conditions

Minor Issues 82 days ago
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