No matter where you are in North Carolina, there is bound to be beauty. It is a coastal state, and also home to part of the Appalachian Mountains. What an amazing variety we have in North Carolina from the Outer Banks to the Blue Ridge Parkway. However, not all trails are created equal, and every visitor to the Tar Heel State must hike the Craggy Pinnacle Trail.

The Craggy Pinnacle Trail is a one-mile out-and-back trail in the Blue Ridge Parkway, which is known for its diverse scenery and ghostly atmosphere.

It is a pretty popular trail, and there are always people hiking, walking their dogs, and taking in the breathtaking views.

March through October is the optimal time to visit Craggy Pinnacle, weather permitting. You will want to try to plan your visit on a clear day. That being said the mountains have their own weather patterns that are wildly unpredictable, so if you are there on a nice day make sure you hike this trail.

There is an overlook at the top of the trail, and standing near the edge makes it seem as if the world has dropped away.

Mountains rise up in the distance for miles, and the blue sky seems to stretch on endlessly.

Benches and a nice knee-high rock wall make it easy for hikers to rest and enjoy nature.

Hikers are encouraged to stay behind the wall for their safety, but the natural beauty can be seen from anywhere.

Craggy Pinnacle Trail also winds through some wooded areas, which makes for a great change in scenery.

In certain areas, it looks as if the trees are reaching toward the trail to pluck hikers off their feet!

The sunrises and sunsets are particularly brilliant on Craggy Pinnacle Trail. As the sun falls in line with the mountains, the rays of light shine over the valleys in a display of the divine.

It can get particularly busy near sunset, so it is recommended to get there way before the sun starts its descent.

The Blue Ridge Parkway has no shortage of views but in our experience, the scenery from the top of Craggy Pinnacle is second to none. If you are a photographer this is a perfect place for a quick hike and snap a few photos. Even if you are a casual observer of nature this is one spot you will not want to miss.

When we hiked this trail it was a beautifully clear day and we could see mountain layers for miles and miles. The simple trail leading to the summit was also filled with its own adventure. The trees at this elevation and in these mountains take on a different look with twisted roots making narrow passageways. The trail itself was fun but the best reward is clearly at the end when you just get to soak in the views.

One of our favorite views is the one in which you can see the majestic and mighty parkway winding in and out of the mountains. This road truly is a feat and an accomplishment. So whenever you plan on taking a trip along the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina make sure you stop by and hike this glorious trail. You are sure to love it as much as we did.

the Craggy Pinnacle Trail is located near Barnardsville, North Carolina. You will find the trailhead close to Milepost 364, which you will want to write down because there is little to no cell phone reception in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Gear up and get out there early to make sure you get a good spot on the trail! One super helpful tool we use on the trail is the AllTrails app, we would recommend you check it out and add it to your must-have hiking essentials too. If you want to see more of this trail before you go make sure you check out this Adventuring in the Moment video when we hiked this beautiful summit.

Another great spot on the Blue Ridge Parkway is just down the road. Pair this hike with a trip to Crabtree Falls to make one epic adventure in the mountains.