Howard's Knob Park
Breathtaking, free panoramic views of Boone and the Blue Ridge Mountains from a scenic hilltop.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds
Howard's Knob Park
Best Time
Clearer skies, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Breathtaking, free panoramic views of Boone and the Blue Ridge Mountains from a scenic hilltop.
"Great views of Boone and Blowing Rock from an aerial view."
Check Park Status First
Park may be closed for season/construction. Verify before you go! :informationdeskperson:
Drive Carefully Up
Steep incline! Take your time on the drive up to the summit. :oncoming_automobile:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Boone Views
Main Overlook
Breathtaking aerial views of Boone, ASU's campus, and surrounding Blowing Rock. Perfect for photos!
Picnic Spot
Designated Picnic Areas
Enjoy a meal with a view. Tables are available, though some may require a quick clean-up.
Short Scenic Drive
Access Road
A quick, steep drive from Boone offers stunning vistas without a strenuous hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check for Closures & Seasonality
Parking & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Howard Knob
Check Park Status First
Park may be closed for season/construction. Verify before you go! :informationdeskperson:
Drive Carefully Up
Steep incline! Take your time on the drive up to the summit. :oncoming_automobile:
Howard Knob?
Visiting Boone, top attractions?
Explore the Full Circle
Don't stop at the first view. Drive the full circle for the best overlook. :round_pushpin:
Bring a Picnic Blanket
Tables can be a bit dirty. A blanket makes picnicking more comfortable. :blanket:
We are visiting Boone in November. What are some of the must-do places… I’m open to restaurant suggestions, attractions both indoor and outdoor etc. I know it’s kind of an in-between time of year. Apples and leaf change are done but snow activities have no yet begun.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Park Status First
Park may be closed for season/construction. Verify before you go! :informationdeskperson:
Drive Carefully Up
Steep incline! Take your time on the drive up to the summit. :oncoming_automobile:
Explore the Full Circle
Don't stop at the first view. Drive the full circle for the best overlook. :round_pushpin:
Bring a Picnic Blanket
Tables can be a bit dirty. A blanket makes picnicking more comfortable. :blanket:
Strict Closing Times
Be mindful of closing hours; gates can lock you in! :alarm_clock:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Howard's Knob Park is praised for its stunning, free panoramic views of Boone and the surrounding mountains, making it a popular spot for photos and quick scenic escapes. While the drive is steep and parking can be limited, visitors appreciate the accessibility and beauty. Some note that facilities like picnic tables could be better maintained.
"Drove up on a warm mid March afternoon but the park was still closed for the season. Great views of Boone and surrounding areas from the top, but parking can be scarce during busy times in nicer weather. Worth the short drive up when in the area for the views alone"
Mike D
"Nice picnic spot and short, relatively easy excursion just minutes from downtown Boone. Takes 5-10 mins to drive up the mountain, but grade is steep. Keep driving around the circle at the top of the mountain, as the overlook is on the far side. Porta potty and picnic tables available but the walk to the overlook takes all of 30 seconds. It was a bit overgrown in summer, so we couldn't climb down to the lower level overlook, but the views are still excellent, and it's a peaceful break from the hustle and bustle of the city below. Park entrance is free, and the proximity to Boone makes this an easy activity to take up an hour or so."
Samantha
"Neat quaint location with ramada, picnic tables and porta potties. A bit run down and dirty but worth the drive. Charcoal grills and some benches…
Thank you from your Arizona friends 😎🙏😇"
Joseph Robson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Howard's Knob Park is a short, steep drive from downtown Boone. Follow the signs for Howard's Knob Road. The drive itself is scenic, offering glimpses of the surrounding landscape as you ascend. Be prepared for a winding, uphill journey.
Currently, there is no public transportation that directly serves Howard's Knob Park. It is best accessed by private vehicle.
The drive is a steep, winding incline. While short, it requires careful driving. Many visitors note the grade is significant.
Yes, there is parking available at the park. However, it can become scarce during busy periods, especially on nice weather days.
Yes, GPS navigation systems will generally guide you to Howard's Knob Park. Ensure your map application is up-to-date for the most accurate directions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Howard's Knob Park offers free admission. It's a great option for a budget-friendly scenic experience.
The park has variable hours and is closed during the off-season. It's crucial to check the official website or local advisories for current operating status and hours, as they can be strict about closing times.
No, Howard's Knob Park is not open year-round. It is typically closed during the off-season and may also be closed for maintenance or construction, as it has been recently for expansion projects.
Yes, visitors have reported that the gates can be closed and locked after operating hours, potentially trapping vehicles inside. Always be mindful of the posted closing times.
The primary restriction is adhering to operating hours. During construction or off-season, access will be denied.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the panoramic view of Boone and the surrounding mountains. There are also picnic tables and a short walk to the overlook.
While there are short paths to the overlooks, Howard's Knob Park is not primarily known for extensive hiking trails. It's more of a scenic viewpoint accessible by car.
Facilities include picnic tables, charcoal grills, benches, and a porta-potty. Some areas might appear a bit run-down or overgrown.
Absolutely! It's a popular spot for photographers due to the stunning aerial views of Boone and the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Yes, picnic tables are available, making it a nice spot for a casual meal with a view. Some visitors suggest bringing a blanket as tables might not always be perfectly clean.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for capturing the panoramic views. Midday can be harsh, but still offers clear visibility.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscape. A telephoto lens can be useful for zooming in on details within Boone. Don't forget a tripod for low-light conditions.
The main overlook provides the most iconic shots. Exploring the edges of the park might reveal unique angles, but stick to designated paths.
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check local FAA guidelines and any park-specific rules before flying a drone to ensure compliance.
Capture the sweeping vistas of Boone, the Appalachian State University campus, and the rolling Blue Ridge Mountains. Sunsets and sunrises are particularly spectacular.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's important to note the steep drive up; ensure your vehicle is comfortable with inclines. Always check the park's operating status before heading out, as it's not open year-round and has had recent closures for improvements. The free admission makes it an excellent budget-friendly option for family fun.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
While the main overlook is the primary spot, explore the edges of the park for unique angles. A wide-angle lens is recommended to capture the vastness of the landscape. Be mindful of the park's operating hours and potential for crowds during peak times.
🚗 Day-Trippers from Boone
Spend an hour or two enjoying the views, having a picnic, or taking photos. Remember to check if the park is open for the season and be aware of the closing times to avoid any issues. It's a perfect, free activity to break up your day.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Howard's Knob Park: A Local Gem
Recent developments indicate plans for expansion and ADA accessibility, including a new walkway overlook and path improvements, following storm damage. While this means temporary closures, the future promises an even more inclusive experience. Visitors should always check the park's current status before planning a trip, as it is also closed during the off-season. The steep, winding drive up is part of the adventure, rewarding travelers with unparalleled vistas of the High Country.
Key features include the stunning panoramic views, picnic facilities, and its convenient location. It's a place where you can enjoy a peaceful moment, capture memorable photographs, or simply appreciate the natural beauty of the region. Despite some reports of the facilities being a bit run-down, the core appeal of Howard's Knob Park remains its magnificent, unobstructed views.
Navigating Howard's Knob Park: Practicalities
Facilities at the park are basic but functional, including picnic tables, charcoal grills, and a porta-potty. Some reviews mention that the picnic areas might be a bit dirty or overgrown, suggesting that bringing a blanket for seating might be a good idea. The park is known for its strict adherence to closing times, so be sure to leave before the gates are locked to avoid being stranded.
Important considerations for visitors include checking the park's seasonal operating status, as it is not open year-round and has undergone recent closures for construction. The free admission is a major draw, making it an accessible attraction for everyone.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit