Spruce and fir trees stand tall against a cloudy, overcast sky. White snakeroot blooms in foreground

Islands in the Sky: Guided High Elevation Hike (Waterrock Knob Visitor Center - Milepost 451)

Blue Ridge Parkway

  • Nov 7, 2026 at 10:45 AM
  • Free

Southern Appalachian spruce-fir forests are a unique extension, or “arm,” of the northern boreal forests which stretch from the northeastern US into Canada. Spruce-fir forests in the southeast are home to many endemic, endangered species. Unfortunately, spruce-fir forests face a number of threats to their long-term survival. Discuss these topics with a ranger on a 2 mile round-trip, strenuous hike to an overlook through a high elevation forest.

All trails at Waterrock make for a strenuous hike on rocky terrain. Expect the trail to be slick, especially if there has been dense fog or rain recently.

You must wear closed-toed shoes appropriate for a trail walk. Please bring water and rain gear in case of a turn in the weather. If there is light rain, the hike will continue if everyone is sufficiently prepared. In the event of thunder or other dangerous conditions, the hike will be canceled.

Fees

The program is free with no tickets or reservations required.

Location

Meet in front of the Waterrock Knob Visitor Center, which is at Milepost 451 on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Schedule

Date:

Nov 7, 2026

Time:

10:45 AM

Duration:

1 hour and 30 minutes

This 90-minute hike starts at 10:45AM.

Contact Information

Park Staff
(828) 348-3550
Contact Us

Event Type

  • Hike