Image of a colorful sunrise viewed from Afton Overlook. Low clouds hang over the valley below.
0-30 Minutes

Enjoy Sunrise at the Afton Overlook

Blue Ridge Parkway

The Afton Overlook provides an excellent introduction to the Blue Ridge Parkway. The view is spectacular at any time, but the colorful skies produced at sunrise can be truly breathtaking. And remember: No two sunrises are the same. So if you can, plan a few return visits to this unique overlook.

The Afton overlook provides visitors with magnificent views of the valley 1,000 feet below and east to the mountains beyond. Perhaps the most spectacular views occur at dawn when the rising sun sends ribbons of color streaming across the morning sky. Located just 0.2 miles from the beginning of the parkway, the overlook is named after the small town of Afton situated in the valley below. Once a prized destination for tourists seeking to escape the crowded cities and enjoy the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Afton is now the site of the western trailhead of the Blue Ridge Tunnel, a former railroad tunnel converted into a pedestrian trail. Hiking through the tunnel is a truly unique hiking experience!

Tags

Scenic DrivingMountainsScenic ViewsOverlooksViewvalleyMountain ViewPhotographyscenic view

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Details

Duration

0-30 Minutes

Fees Apply

No

Seasons

Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall

Time of Day

Dawn

Accessibility

The overlook area is flat and paved. The view is accessible from the parking area with no walking or hiking required.

Pets

Yes — Pets must be on a leash no longer than 6' in length.

Reservations

No

Location

Afton Overlook

View on NPS.govBack to Blue Ridge

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