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91 North Lakeshore Drive, Lake Junaluska, NC 28745
(828) 944-0761
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NC scenic drives in HAYWOOD COUNTY

Always take the scenic route

Awe-inspiring views await around every curve in Haywood County, NC. Roads lining the mountainside open up to long-range vistas worth stopping for along scenic byways, highways, and the Blue Ridge Parkway.

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your favorite nc scenic drives

A destination worth the detour

Head off the beaten path to scenic drives in Haywood, home to the best motorcycle routes in North Carolina like The Rattler and Tail of the Dragon, America’s favorite drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway, and traffic-less byways teeming with roadside views.

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Vertical gallery

Best Blue Ridge Parkway Stops

Brake for breathtaking views

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Cowee Mountain Overlook
Canton
Canton
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Roy Taylor Forest Overlook
Waynesville
Waynesville
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Richland Balsam Overlook
Canton
Canton

Take the long way ‘round

In Haywood County, even the simplest of drives will take your breath away, but these routes go above and beyond with sweeping mountain views, forest-shrouded curves, and photo-ready vistas at every turn.

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Blue Ridge Parkway

Take in the Parkway’s best views along its 46-mile stretch through Haywood County, including the motorway’s highest peak.

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The Rattler on NC-209

Wind through the countryside from Lake Junaluska through Clyde’s rural farmland and beyond on this official NC scenic drive.

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NC-215 & US-276

Explore cultural and logging history in Waynesville and Canton along the Forest Heritage Scenic Byway, which loops through the Pisgah National Forest area.

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Heintooga Spur Road

Take the road less traveled by near Maggie Valley with beautiful hiking trails, picnic areas, and elk viewing on this short route.

Cars & motorcycle events

Rev up for fun

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Upcoming events

Hit the throttle on Haywood’s lineup of vintage and niche car shows, competitions, and motorcycle rallies. Running early spring through fall, join fellow auto-enthusiasts on scenic rides, trade in swap meets, and more.

See All Car & Motorcycle Events
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Take a motor tour

Book a Jeep, Slingshot, or UTV tour of the Smokies to see wild elk, waterfalls, and mountaintop views. Or, take the self-guided route with a motorcycle or e-bike rental from local companies.

See Guided Motor Tours & Rentals

VISIT HAYWOOD BLOG

Road trip therapy

See All Blog Posts
Ultimate Guide to the Ice Block Party in Downtown Waynesville
Arts & CultureUltimate Guide to the Ice Block Party in Downtown Waynesville
A Visit Haywood Ice Fest Weekend Guide: 4 Days of Winter Fun in the Smoky Mountains
Seasonal EventsA Visit Haywood Ice Fest Weekend Guide: 4 Days of Winter Fun in the Smoky Mountains
Start the New Year Right with Outdoor Adventures & Wellness in the NC Mountains
OutdoorsStart the New Year Right with Outdoor Adventures & Wellness in the NC Mountains

Put the hustle & bustle in your rearview

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Things to Do
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Where is Haywood