The Saddle Overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway

View: ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ / 5
Trails: Rock Castle Gorge Trail
Picnic Tables: None

The Saddle Overlook is unique in that there are excellent views from both sides of the Blue Ridge Parkway. The view on the parking lot side is of The Saddle and is best visited in the early afternoon since it is facing east. The photo above was taken at 4:30 PM, while the one below was taken around 10:30 AM, and you can see how washed out it is with the sun shining in my face.

View from the Saddle Overlook (parking lot side of the Blue Ridge Parkway)

Of course, if the sun is shining in your face on one side of the Blue Ridge Parkway, it’s behind you on the other side. Thus, if you can’t get a good photo of The Saddle, walk across the Parkway for an excellent view of Buffalo Mountain to the west. This area was once farmland, but it has long since been abandoned, and now the forest is growing back. Mornings will be the best time to get a photo in this direction.

Buffalo Mountain as seen from The Saddle Overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway

Panoramic view of Buffalo Mountain from the Saddle Overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway (click to enlarge)

Because there are views to both the east and west at The Saddle Overlook, this is one of the few spots on the Blue Ridge Parkway where you can see both the sunrise and the sunset.

Sunset at The Saddle Overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway (facing Buffalo Mountain)

You can also pick up the Rock Castle Gorge Trail from here. The trail runs right across the front of the parking area. See the Rocky Knob Hiking Trails web page for details.

Next Stop South | Next Stop North | Scenic Overlooks

Back to the Top