20-Minute Cliff overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway
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Trails: None
Picnic Tables: None
The mountains at the 20-Minute Cliff overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway run perpendicular to the viewing area, allowing you to see into the valley as it recedes towards the horizon. This makes for a much more interesting photo than mountains that run parallel to the overlook, as perpendicular mountains add depth to the scene. The only problem is that there are many trees near the sidewalk that get in the way, so instead of having a panoramic vista, there are little windows of view between the trees.
A view between the trees at 20-Minute Cliff on the Blue Ridge Parkway
A view between the trees at 20-Minute Cliff on the Blue Ridge Parkway
The story behind 20-Minute Cliff is told on a wayside exhibit next to the parking area. In June and July, if you are in the community of White Rock in the valley below, you will see the sun hit the cliff wall (below where you are standing) 20 minutes before sunset. For those wanting a photo, this means that the sun will be shining in your face late in the day, so 20-Minute Cliff is best visited in the morning.
Next Stop South | Next Stop North | Scenic Overlooks
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Last updated on November 2, 2023
