Place

Green Knob Overlook

Green forested ridges and valleys stretch to the horizon
View from Green Knob Overlook

Harold Blackwood Photo

Quick Facts
Location:
Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 350.3
Significance:
Scenic views and trailhead parking

Scenic View/Photo Spot, Trailhead

If you liked the movie Last of the Mohicans, you’ll want to visit Green Knob Overlook. The views from the overlook were used by Hollywood for the opening shot in the film. 

Located at approximately milepost 350.3 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, the overlook takes its name from the mountain whose rocky face is located across the parkway. Enjoy spectacular views into the valleys created by the headwaters of the Catawba River. Views to the southwest offer waves of ridges and valleys that continue into the distance. To the southeast, Lake James looks like small puddles nestled among surrounding distant ridges, and the southern end of Linville Gorge offers its last rocky exposure before disappearing into Lake James and the Catawba River Valley. 

The overlook also serves as a trailhead for two United States Forest Service Trails: Green Knob Trail and Snook’s Nose. The Green Knob Trail (FS182) will take you to the fire tower and then connects to the Lost Cove Trail (FS182) which descends to the Black Mountain Campground located on the South Toe River. Snook’s Nose (FS211) descends into the Curtis Creek valley. 

Blue Ridge Parkway

Last updated: April 5, 2024