You don’t have to be an expert driver or an experienced hiker to soak up Asheville’s mountain beauty. Some of the area’s most stunning scenery is waiting right outside your vehicle window.
Here are some of the best scenic drives near Asheville that give you big views with simple routes and plenty of places to stop, stretch, and explore.
Blue Ridge Parkway: Asheville’s Signature Scenic Drive
The Blue Ridge Parkway is the undisputed star when it comes to scenic drives. This 469-mile roadway connects Great Smoky Mountains National Park with Shenandoah National Park, but even a short section near Asheville delivers ridge-top views, tunnels, and photo-worthy overlooks.
From Asheville, you can:
- Head south on the Parkway toward Pisgah National Forest for mountain tunnels and sweeping vistas
- Or drive north toward Craggy Gardens for higher elevation views and dramatic ridgelines
Either direction makes a fantastic half-day adventure.
Best of the Blue Ridge Scenic Loop
If you’re looking for a nicely packaged route, the 60-mile “Best of the Mountains” loop near Asheville includes Blue Ridge Parkway segments, Pisgah National Forest, gardens, waterfalls, and panoramic overlooks—all in one drive.
This loop:
- Starts near the south side of Asheville
- Climbs up onto the Parkway
- Passes near the North Carolina Arboretum
- Drops into Pisgah National Forest with options for waterfall and trail stops
It’s an ideal “sampler platter” for first-time visitors.
Forest & Backroads: Pisgah National Forest Routes
Beyond the Parkway, the Pisgah National Forest area offers winding roads that feel like a secret—towering trees, creekside pull-offs, and occasional glimpses of far-off peaks.
These drives are all about:
- Slower speeds
- Windows down
- Listening to the sound of water and wind as you go
They’re perfect for visitors who want less traffic and more of that “deep in the forest” feeling.
Seasonal Scenic Drives Around Asheville
- Spring & Summer: Great for combining drives with short hikes to overlooks or picnic spots.
- Fall: Scenic drives near Asheville become bucket-list experiences, especially when the leaves peak along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
- Winter: Higher elevations can see closures, so always check conditions first—but when the Parkway is open, winter views can be incredibly clear.
Why Go With a Guided Scenic Tour
Driving mountain roads can be intimidating if you’re not used to curves, elevation, or changing conditions. A guided scenic Jeep tour lets you sit back, relax, and simply enjoy the ride.
With Asheville Tours & Excursions, you’ll:
- Follow tried-and-true scenic routes
- Stop at the best overlooks and photo spots
- Hear local stories and tips you won’t find in guidebooks
It’s a great choice if you’re short on time—or you just want to maximize your vacation instead of staring at a GPS.
