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
Visitor Photos
No visitor photos yet
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