Tanawha Trail

Dogs Unknown

Features Birding · Cave · Fall Colors · Lake · River/Creek · Spring · Views · Waterfall · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Built in 1993 at a cost of $750,000, The Tanawha Trail (Cherokee for fabulous hawk) is epic in every way. Expect everything from see-forever views atop craggy outcroppings to dense hardwood forests teaming with waterfalls. Beautiful bridges are photo worthy and make most creek crossings a breeze. Multiple access points along the always nearby Blue Ridge Parkway make it easy to shorten your trip or bail out if things are going poorly.

Start at Beacon Heights, milepost 305.2 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Most will do this as a one way journey. If so, leave another car or arrange for a ride from the traditional trail terminus near Price Lake. Stash this car either at Boone Fork Overlook, milepost 297.2 or Boone Fork Picnic Area, less than a mile further down the parkway. Reversing directions makes for a more strenuous journey.