Mount Jefferson rises abruptly to more than 1,600
feet above the surrounding landscape, serving as
a landmark for area motorists. Acquaint yourself
with this mighty peak by viewing it first from the
Mount Jefferson Overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Rising as a long, forested prominence, its dark
color is conspicuous among neighboring peaks on
the Ashe plateau.
Though the mountain is magnificent from a distance,
Mount Jefferson is best appreciated up close.
On a clear day, you can see for miles from its
peak. A great part of Ashe County spreads out
below; fields, farms, forests and mountains mingle
in kaleidoscopic patterns. On the horizon, the
Blue Ridge Mountains form a striking backdrop.
Yet what looms in the distance is no more spectacular
than what is right before your eyes, for the forests
of Mount Jefferson are a botanical paradise. The
interesting and unusual plant life of the park
rendered it worthy of designation as a national
natural landmark.
Park hours
November-February, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
March and October, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
April, May, September, 9 a.m.-7 p.m.
June-August, 9 a.m.-8 p.m.
Closed Christmas Day
Park office hours
8 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays
Closed state holidays
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