If you're driving the Blue Ridge Parkway, Beacon Heights is the perfect way to stretch your legs and a great place to enjoy lunch with a view. It's less than 20 minutes from Blowing Rock and less than 2 hours for those traveling from Asheville. Whether you're spending the day in the area or just passing through, this beautiful overlook hike shouldn't be passed up.

Moments down the road, Stack Rock is another short hike that pairs well with Beacon Heights. Though it offers no views along the trail, a wooden staircase circles around a massive rock formation, and the dark forest floor hosts beautiful wildflowers and fungi, depending on the time of year. The hikes are also connected via the Tanawha Trail, which is part of the larger Mountains to Sea Trail.

To enjoy this hike, hit the BRP or take US-221 to where it meets the parkway. The lot can hold up to 10 vehicles, with more options nearby if it's full. There are no restrooms or facilities at the pull-off, but there is plenty of cell reception. This hike can also be enjoyed year-round, though parts of the BRP close for ice and snow during the winter. US-221, however, is treated and plowed as needed.