Parking spaces face Price Lake and the boat rental area. The Amphitheater is to the far left of the lake and is not far from the road. Handicap parking faces the short path to the amphitheater. Loop A campsites run directly behind the amphitheater and places campers in the perfect spot for attending events.

This outdoor amphitheater seats 300 people and various events are held here during the summer and fall seasons. Tucked away by trees, and surrounded by Price Lake, it’s a relatively shaded area. Sunday mornings in the summer (June-August) church services are held and open to the public.

For more information on this amphitheater and possible upcoming events you can contact Parkway Headquarters at 828-271-4779.

About 20 feet from the gift shop and camp store, was an amphitheatre for the campground. Here, campers could go for solitude as it stretched out across a grassy field and was far from disturbances. The campsites were just beyond the amphitheatre and could be reached by a short trail leading from the gift shop. That way, if campers ever forgot an essential like their toothbrush, were craving some candy, or wanted ice to keep their food cold, the gift shop wasn’t far for them to journey.

Crabtree Meadows Campground was the quietest campground I have been to thus far. Tucked away beyond the parkway main road, it was very serene and peaceful. Whether you have an RV or a tent, you are handicapped or ready to hike; Crabtree Meadows has facilities for the whole family. Campsites were surrounded by large trees and spread out from neighboring sites.

This campground is near an ample amount of activities for folks of all ages. The ranger programs go on throughout the summer and different activities happen in the evening at the amphitheatre. Mt.Mitchell is only a couple miles from Crabtree Meadows and accessible by car for a daytime adventure. Also Crabtree Falls is only one mile from the campground entrance sign. Which means the trail is smack dab in the middle of the campsite for hikers to utilize during the daytime hours.

Visit Virtual Blue Ridge to view and print a free map of this campground.

In my opinion, Flat Top Manor is a hidden gem of the Parkway. With only a brown sign reading “Moses Cone Memorial Park”, I never imagined there could be a 3,600-acre estate on the other side of those trees.

As I navigated my car down the narrow road leading to the Manor, I had a feeling it was going to delight my camera lens.

Sure enough, the view was breathtaking and the house looked just remarkable in its surroundings. Immediately, I could see why Moses and Bertha Cone spent every summer relaxing among the rhododendron blossoms and breathing in the mountain air. Runners, hikers, and those who had horses could be seen all throughout the property trails.

On the porch of the manor sat a Ranger who was in charge of organizing the tours. After she passed out a tag to all those who had made prior reservations for the tour, we gathered on the front porch. Her enthusiasm and knowledge of the Manor made the tour worthwhile.

Not only did she tell us interesting information about the home, but she also shared many stories about the family that helped us understand why and how they went about their daily lives. The upstairs contained no furniture but beautifully let sunlight in through every window.

The craft demonstration that I got to observe was a man making wine toppers. As I spoke with him, I found out he was using a small machine called a mini lathe. The colorful wood was cut from a larger chunk of wood and whittled down by the machine into the shape of a wine topper. This woodcraftsmen was from Alabama and had journeyed up the Blue Ridge Parkway to share his abilities.

For more information about Moses H. Cone and his estate visit Virtual Blue Ridge.

Also click here for a virtual tour of the manor, visitor center and craft shop.

Photo Gallery:

Brinegar Cabin was about a mile past the Doughton Park entrance. I parked my car and walked towards the quaint cabin. The cabin was home to Martin and Caroline Brinegar in 1876 when they purchased the 125-acre property.

As rather evident from the modest cabin, neither Martin nor Caroline came from wealthy or famous families. But to their neighbors they were very important. The way the cabin is set up makes visitors feel as if they are taken back in time to the actual home of the Brinegars.

Loom demonstrations are done for the public on weekends to show how Caroline Brinegar and women of the time period provided clothes for her family. As I walked inside, two park rangers were doing loom demonstrations. What surprised me was their passion for the craft they were doing and the enthusiasm on their faces. This “demonstration” was more like an “observation” of their work.

They spent the weekends spinning the wool and then weaving it into different cloths. When asked questions about the process, these women were eager to share each step of the long process. One of the Rangers even told me she loved to weave in her free time.

Behind Brinegar cabin along the path, is a Spring House. As I peered in the door, it looked like a scene from Tuck Everlasting. The sparkling spring trickled down from the rocks with a roof and three walls around it.

In addition to drinking and cooking water, Caroline and Martin supposedly used this as a refrigerator to keep their food chilled. Also on site, were an outdoor pantry structure and a flourishing garden.

Visiting Brinegar Cabin will surely give you a peek back into our Appalachian culture.

Get a free map of Doughton Park trails at Virtual Blue Ridge.

Information inside tells how their roof is layered with soil and plants. Green roofs help in absorbing rainwater, providing insulation, and creating a habitat for animals.

Walking inside was like walking into a history museum of the Parkway. But not just any old museum, this one was interactive and interesting. When younger people think of museums they think of strictly history with no hands-on exhibits.

Every station I stopped at stole my attention. Even up until it closed for the day, there were children inside begging their parents to stay longer so they could play.

Two of the stations had wooden pieces for children to pick up and make something. History about the trains of the area was paired with a build-your-own train track out of wooden pieces.

Next to this, was a huge photograph of a view from one of the many Parkway overlooks. The activity was called “Frame your Own View”. Here, children or adults chose which wooden pieces with scenes on them they wanted to place in the frame to create their own view.

The Destination center also had a theatre. One film was shown every hour throughout the day. This film, called “The Blue Ridge Parkway-America’s Favorite Journey” was my favorite part of my time at the center.

The film reminded me of why I came to the Destination Center in the first place, and my love for the Blue Ridge Parkway. It touched on many topics such as Appalachian music, artisans in the area, and the history of the parkway.

A couple minutes into my trip a deer ran across the road in front of me. Thankfully, the speed limit was only 35mph at that portion of the parkway so I did not even have to slow down before the deer was safely to the other side of the parkway.

As I continued south for a while, I came to “Sims Pond Overlook”. By stopping to read the nice wooden map I noticed the Green Knob Trail began just beyond Sims Pond.

Welcomed by wildflowers, I followed a dirt path to the Sims Pond Bridge past the Pond, and into the woods. Rhododendron bushes point hikers in the right direction as well as giving the atmosphere a distinct smell.

Once I was in the forest and on my way, I glanced down at some unusual leaves that happened to catch my eye. Immediately I was down on my hands and knees taking photographs of this greenery that was covered in water droplets.

This wonder occurs the morning after a heavy mountain rain. Water drops are left behind as the downpour ceases and the sun comes up. The rays of light pass through each drop and give it a shimmer affect.

It’s a photographers dream to be able to capture this magic on camera. The whole forest seemed to sparkle in the early morning sunlight from then on.

About halfway through the trail, hikers come upon a cow pasture. Thinking the entirety of the trail would be beside the creek, this surprised me. However, it turned out to be one of my favorite parts of the trail.
At the beginning there is a tree with its branches spread out to shade hikers from the direct sunlight. Under the branches is also a bench where I sat and rested for a while. All that could be heard was the sound of bugs buzzing around the wildflowers and tall grass.

Serenity can be found under that tree as you glance out over the sunny hills. After walking a while through the grass and back into the woods, I came upon another tree with a bench under it. This one was significantly larger than the other and had an incredible view.

As I stopped to sit on the bench, I gazed ahead to what seemed to be a hole in the tops of the trees. Mountains off in the distance and clouds could be clearly seen from this hole.

The rest of the trail was down hill and passed through another portion of a pasture. This path was narrow and clearly lined with plants on either side. Before long, the trail flattened out and ended on the parkway across the road from the beginning of the trail.

The Green Knob Trail was a moderate hike that doesn’t lack changes of scenery or places to rest your feet! I recommend you check out this trail and bring your friends along for a good hike.

For those who haven’t had the opportunity to soak up the inconceivable views, sleep among the North Carolina trees, or feel the cool evening breeze all around them.

Reality is, those privileged enough to call the mountains home, love the surroundings just as much as the visitors of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

On my trip to Linville Falls Campground, I stopped at several parkway overlooks. Around milepost 300 the parkway opens up on the left side and there are no longer trees blocking the view of the mountains.

The mountains stretch as wide as the eye can see, and just tall enough to make you feel like an ant. With monarch butterflies stopping on each wildflower, it was a beautiful sight.

I saw many cameras, and even some bikers stop to take a breather from their cycling. In the daytime I spotted numerous cyclists.

Soon after, around milepost 315 I crossed the Linville River Bridge. Next, on the right came signs leading to Linville Falls visitor center and campground. Once the road split off, the first turn was to the campground.

I stopped at the registration center to pick up some information and was greeted by two very friendly hosts of the campground. They directed me in the steps of registration as I picked up a few maps.

I continued on to loop A to check out the river behind some of the campsites. The sound of the river created a very peaceful atmosphere and a great place to set up camp. Out of all the sites, these were my favorite.

Just off the road through the campground, there is a large open field with a forest at the edge. This edge also houses a few campsites for visitors to set up camp. The contrast of the field against the trees leading into the riverbank was very picturesque.

Like any campground, Linville Falls was filled with that inviting smell of a campfire. The thing I liked most about this campground was how quaint it was. The entirety was about medium size, as the sites were fairly spread out.

In my opinion, it was big enough to be able to walk around and explore, but small enough for it not to feel crowded. Sites in Loop B had a large field beside them. This allows children and pets to roam around freely.

Also with Linville Falls large trail system right around the corner, the days spent in the area are sure to be exciting. What I gathered from my trip to Linville Falls Campground was that it is a peaceful, charming area that should be taken advantage of.

Whether you venture north or south on the parkway from the campground, there is plenty to keep you occupied and plenty of views to take in.

Since it was around 8:30pm when I arrived, the office window was shut. Leaving two options- the self-registration drop box, or reservation by telephone.

Curious about the grounds, I went to the camp host house located directly behind the reservation office. During my trip to Price Park Campground I asked several questions to different people sitting on the porch of the Host house. Each time I was graciously welcomed and all of my questions were answered.

The campsites in particular were laid out nicely with not too little space in between your site and your neighbors.

I came across several nice stone water fountains and well structured bathhouses in every loop. The bathhouses had two sinks and three restroom stalls on both the men and women’s sides. It was very clean and well kept!

Perusing through the grounds reminded me of why I love camping. During my trip I came across locals as well as those new to the area. All were very pleasant and up for chatting.

If you chose to camp here, don’t be afraid to say hello to your neighbors, you may learn some new things or meet folks from the opposite side of the country. License plates I spotted on my journey included: Arkansas, Texas, South Carolina, and Virginia.

I spotted several bikers riding through the paved roads on the campground. Bikes are only permitted on roads due to the unexpected terrain of the hiking trails.

Although it is permitted, cycling on the parkway needs to be done with much caution, due to the winding roads!

If you enjoy a waterfront view, I’d suggest camping at a site in loop A, Price Lake is no more than a five-minute walk from your site. The lake was breathtaking at sunset, and during the day there were boaters.

Also, Canoes and paddleboats were available for rent. In the evening I came across many people fishing in the lake. Not sure how much they caught, but fishing is a nice way to relax on your camping trip.

In addition to fisherman, many people brought their pets along for the trip. With so many activities to choose from, your kids definitely won’t be caught bored.

One of the best things about this campground are the hiking trails that surround it. Even if you aren’t an avid hiker, there is a trail or path fit for your level.

I spent four hours on the Boone Fork Trail hiking and photographing every surrounding. The average hiker can hike it in 3 hours. Just incase you have an emergency such as a wildfire, 1-800-Parkwatch is a valuable resource/helpline to keep Parkway visitors safe.

Overall my trip to Price Park Campground was more than pleasant. Please take advantage of all this campground has to offer!

On Monday I took a friend and set out to hike the Boone Fork Trail! This trail conveniently loops around Price Park Campground allowing campers to hike through many different environments during their stay.

More than half of the trail runs beside Bee Tree Creek, which includes many interesting sections of moderate to slow moving rapids.

It would be a good idea to wear appropriate hiking sandals so you can get your feet wet. Chacos or Tevas are among sandals that were made for the type of terrain Boone Fork Trail entails.

I dipped my feet in the cold mountain water at every creek crossing. It was very refreshing on this warm summer day. If you enjoy being alone, plan your hike for a weekday and you won’t be disappointed!

We started at 4:30 in the afternoon and hiked on into the summer evening. On weekends the trails tend to be busier, but a 5-mile stretch allows hikers to set their own pace and generally be alone. Just be sure you allow at least three hours of daylight to complete the trail.

I would go as far to say this is my favorite North Carolina hiking trail. With so many changes of scenery, it is far from being dull. About a quarter mile into the trail, I heard some rustling in a thicket behind me. Suddenly a light brown figure came running towards the trail.

Not used to seeing wildlife on the weekdays, I immediately thought “Oh no! Someone has lost their golden retriever”. To my surprise a large deer had emerged from the trees and ran across the path.

This time camera ready, another deer crossed at the same spot just in time for me to get a photo. Wildlife is prominent in this area and at any time of the year you may come across one of these creatures. I also saw grey squirrels, dragonflies, and a very neatly constructed beaver dam.

Rhododendron bushes greet hikers on every mile of the wooded journey. In my opinion, this plant gives the North Carolina Mountains its distinct smell. If you don’t smell rhododendron, check to make sure you are still in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

White or pink blooms and long slick leaves set these bushes apart from the rest of the forest. Pine trees can also be found along the Boone Fork Trail. These become recognizable when the path starts to be scattered with brown pine needles.

A personal favorite of mine were the ferns. Not as frequent as the rhododendron, but certainly as enjoyable, the ferns lined at least a quarter of the trail.

I highly recommend this trail to hikers ready for a long picturesque walk. Take a friend with you, bring some water, and set out to enjoy this awesome trail!

If you plan to spend a day in the area, also take advantage of the campgrounds in addition to this trail.

Camping is available for those that are competing in the games, or those who desire to soak in the full experience. This year, the games began with the opening ceremonies on Thursday evening following a foot race. The winner of the race ran a victory lap around the track with the torch in hand.

For anyone curious about the Highland Games and not sure which days to attend events, I would suggest a weekend pass. With my weekend pass wrapped around my arm, I journeyed towards the fog-covered Grandfather Mountain.

Scottish apparel was the first thing that greeted me, and it felt as if I had gotten off a plane in Scotland. Young and old had adorned their bodies with plaid for the events.

The yellow lights cut through the fog and created a silhouette out of every object in sight. I sat in amazement as 150 clans called out their name and a fact about their heritage. If you have seen the movie Braveheart, some felt only the need to yell a battle cry like William Wallace did before war.

Each clan had chosen a representative who stood in the center of the field with a torch. After introducing their clan, each torch was left in the center and the ending result was a pyramid-like structure. It was a sight to see, and could not have been a more beautiful night.

The next three days of the games were packed full of events for the whole family to watch. Celtic music in the grove was among my favorite. With two concert groves and a number of other small stages, music was for sure not lacking.

The groves were rock formations around a stage at the bottom of a sloping hill. It made for a great sound and even if you were at the very back of the crowd, most could still see all that was happening. There was everything from traditional Celtic, to Scottish Romantic music. Each band got the crowd involved in their music and many chose to dance a jig in front of the stage.

Games for men and women to compete in were only during daylight hours. Before dinner time each day, were a handful of events for the clans to showcase their abilities.

Caber tossing was definitely the most foreign for the Americans to watch. This event consisted of particularly large men picking up a 150 pound, 18 foot long log and throwing it as far as they could. There were also a handful of relays, high jumping, and pole vaulting.

Every so often throughout the day, an old Scottish man with a wooden staff would direct his border collie to heard sheep in and out of their pen. Often, the dog would chase the sheep into the path of an event such as the foot races.

These were just an overview of everything that went on this weekend in July. The Highland Games are a unique taste of Scottish heritage that you don’t want to miss next year.

View the 2009 Grandfather Mountain Highland Games Photos.