Best Places for a Blue Ridge Mountain Picnic

As the mountain air slowly warms up and the trees begin to bud their bright green leaves, the Blue Ridge Mountains are just calling to be explored –– and what better way to enjoy the natural splendor of the region than with a spring picnic? With blossoming wildflowers dotting the mountain peaks and views as far as the eye can see, a Blue Ridge Mountain picnic is the perfect way to spend a spring day.

In this post, we will give you a few tips to make sure your picnic is planned perfectly, along with several locations in the Blue Ridge Mountains worth checking out. 

Picnicking Tips for Your Outdoor Adventure

Picnicking is a good way to spend time with friends and family –– and to make your picnic experience more enjoyable, there are a couple of things you can do. First, be sure to bring a large, padded blanket if you plan to embrace the full experience and set it up on the ground. You may want to bring along a pillow or two for extra comfort. Prepared food and drinks should be packed in an insulated bag or cooler to keep them fresh until it’s time to eat. Most importantly, pick the right spot to set up your picnic. Look for a shady area with a scenic view to take in while you enjoy your meal. 

So, now that you’re ready to get outside and explore –– here are a few picnic areas along the Blue Ridge Parkway you should consider visiting this spring. 

1. Peaks of Otter

Located in Virginia, Peaks of Otter is home to a charming picnic area with many picnic tables scattered along the Little Stony Creek. There is even a spacious open meadow to lay out your blanket and spend the afternoon taking in the beautiful scenery. After your meal, go on one of the three hikes to take in the views of Jefferson National Forest, which surrounds the area.

2. Julian Price Park 

With its level terrain and easy access, the Julian Price Park picnic areas are a perfect choice for those not interested in venturing off the beaten path. This park offers more than 100 picnic sites that provide a charming backdrop for your afternoon in the mountains. 

Comprised of 4,200 acres at the foot of Grandfather Mountain, this park offers plenty of land to explore after you’ve had a bite to eat. Here, you can enjoy hiking and biking trails, and a 47-acre lake within the park for boating, fishing, and even camping.    

3. Linville Falls 

Picnic amid the sound of rushing, three-tiered waterfalls found at Linville Falls. Many of the tables in the picnic area offer a river view, a few of which are under a covered pavilion. This well-known park includes a hiking trail that meanders along the river banks as it flows into the Linville Gorge. 

4. Crabtree Falls 

Another secluded Blue Ridge Mountain picnic area is Crabtree Falls. Within this park, there are three designated picnic areas, each of which houses many tables for added comfort. Some of these tables offer views of the neighboring mountains, while many others are tucked away in the lush forests –– making for a quiet and peaceful experience. After your meal, you can hike the moderately strenuous 2.5-mile trail for a scenic view of the falls. 

5. Craggy Gardens

Another picturesque place to spend the afternoon is Craggy Gardens. One of the most colorful floral displays along the Blue Ridge Parkway, this hiking trail and picnic area are located in a delightful area to sit and take in the beauty that surrounds you. Most famously, the Catawba rhododendrons, which bloom in late spring, cover the forest ground in vibrant pinks and purples. So, be sure to plan your Blue Ridge Mountain picnic in June to see the most beautiful scenery.   

6. Mount Pisgah

Located just outside of downtown Asheville, Mount Pisgah can be found in the many acres of the Pisgah National Forest. With views of the soaring mountain peak in the distance, this is a great place to set up your picnic and take it all in. There are also grills and picnic tables in the designated picnic area if you are looking for a little more comfort during your outing. 

A Blue Ridge Mountain Picnic in Your Own Backyard

There’s nothing like a private picnic to awaken the senses and bring you closer to nature –– and when you live at The Cliffs, you can enjoy a scenic meal outdoors, from the comfort of your own luxury mountain home.

Our private luxury community is located in Western North Carolina and Upstate South Carolina, providing endless possibilities for an outdoor adventure for our members. With private hiking trails, outdoor venues, and countless social events held throughout the year, the lifestyle at The Cliffs embodies the mountain spirit and transforms the way you enjoy the region.

At The Cliffs, we are home to seven luxury communities divided into three regions, each with their own character and charm. This makes it easy to find a home that meets all of your needs and allows you to partake in your favorite activities, all while still having exclusive access to the other communities. 

To learn more about the three regions at The Cliffs, click on the button below –– and if you have any questions as you begin to discover the different communities, please do not hesitate to contact us. We look forward to showing you the many opportunities available to you and your family.