Tanbark Ridge Overlook

View from Tanbark Ridge Overlook

NPS Photo / Laura White

Quick Facts

Location:

Milepost 376.7

Significance:

Scenic Overlook

Amenities

3 listed

Parking - Auto, Scenic View/Photo Spot, Trash/Litter Receptacles

Enjoy an expansive view at this beautiful overlook located just north of Asheville.

Sunrise can be spectacular as this overlook faces east. Tanbark Ridge Overlook is a favorite with stargazers as well. In the small valley below, which is mostly forested, there is a little community aligned with Bull Creek Road. In the distance the mountains are High Swan, High Knob, and Lane Pinnacle. Behind the overlook, Tanbark Ridge ascends another 700 feet. Swan Mountain is behind Tanbark Ridge. 

The name tanbark comes from a leather tannery that is said to have been located on this ridge. Tanneries by their nature were foul smelling and usually located away from towns. A tannery situated on this ridge had the advantage of nearby resources—tannins from the bark of oak and hemlock trees and mountain breezes to blow away the smell of tannic acid and putrid animal hides.