A short scenic drive north of Asheville is all it takes for some of the best views along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Hike the Craggy Pinnacle Trail just north of the Craggy Gardens Visitor Center for multiple expansive views from the summit of Craggy Pinnacle. the third highest mountain in the Great Craggy Mountain sub-range of Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina.

From the upper parking area, look for the trail sign and steps heading up the hill. Immediately you'll dive into dense Catawba rhododendron tunnels as you make your way up to the summit. On the way, the trail curves around a large boulder. A small side trail walks you on top of the rock for a view.

After a third of a mile the trail splits then immediately rejoins. On the other side of this small loop, the trails splits again to the two overlooks. The trail to the right drops down sharply to an overlook facing the Craggy Gardens Visitor Center on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Here you'll get a 180-degree view to the south. But it gets better.

Back at the intersection, hike the left trail to the summit overlook. Here a four-leaf clover shaped observation area provides 360-degree views of the stunning surrounding landscape. Look to the northwest for Craggy Dome, the highest peak in the range. For such an easy trail, the views can't be beat.