This is a very popular overlook along the Blue Ridge Parkway. It serve as a an access point for the Tanawha Trail that originates at Beacon Heights and ends at Price Lake. If you want to stretch your legs, it’s just a short hike south to one of the better views of the Linn Cove Viaduct. The hike is a little steep to begin with, but then it opens up to a long wooden platform. The platform contains several bulletins of information of the steps the NPS has taken to protect the lichens on this southern bald. On the opposite side of the road from the parking area, you will have a grand view of the piedmont of North Carolina. As you look out, you will be seeing the towns of Hickory and Lenoir. On really clear days, you can see the Charlotte skyline.