Tanawha Trail
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Trail Overview
Trail runs parallel to Blue Ridge Parkway in the Linn Cove section, thus offers some nice views of the viaduct and Grandfather Mountain.
How to get there
From Johnson City, TN to southern trailhead:
- Take US-321 east to Elizabethton.
- Right/south onto US 19-E thru Elk Park, NC
- Straight onto NC-194 to Newland.
- Left/east onto NC-181 to Linville.
- Straight onto US-221 past entrance for Grandfather Mountain.
- Take interchange to get onto Blue Ridge Parkway heading south.
- Beacon Heights parking lot within 500 ft on southeast side (MM 305).
For a shuttle, first head up the Blue Ridge Parkway to MM 297 at Julian Price Park to leave a vehicle at the trail’s end.
Route Description
The Tanawha Trail runs mostly parallel to the Blue Ridge Parkway. In just over a mile, a quick stop at the Linn Cove visitors’ center might be in order. Plan on lunch at Rough Ridge where nice views have be had of the viaduct and Grandfather Mountain. The trail continues along the forest and brush along the BRP until reaching open meadow near Julian Price Park. Last section is an old gravel road over to the parkway at mile marker 297.
The Tanawha Trail is part of Section 13 of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail.
Typical Conditions
Several years ago, my impression of the middle section was that it needed some real maintenance to cut back the rhododendron, put the steps back into place, and pick up litter. Low cut hiking shoes should be appropriate for this trail.
Fees, Permits, etc.
No fees. The Blue Ridge Parkway is occasionally closed.
After the Hike
Misc. Information
Maps
Photos
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