Skip to content

Mount Jefferson State Natural Area – Sunrise Overlook

Sunrise Overlook sits high on the ridgeline of Mount Jefferson State Natural Area and is the first scenic stop for visitors driving up the mountain. At dawn, and depending upon the weather, early risers can enjoy a beautiful view as soft pinks, oranges, and golds light up the valleys below.

Although the overlook offers beautiful views of the surrounding scenery, it is not as expansive as the panoramas at the Jefferson Overlook or the Sunset Overlook. However, from our experience, it is the quietest of the three overlooks. Accessible from the main park road, the overlook is a peaceful spot to pause, reflect, and take in the surroundings.





Resources

Mount Jefferson State Natural Area Webpage


Location


Home » North Carolina » Ashe County, NC » West Jefferson, NC » Attractions – West Jefferson, NC » Mount Jefferson State Natural Area » Mount Jefferson State Natural Area – Sunrise Overlook

Blue Ridge Parkway Double Dip: Hiking the Cascades Trail & Tomkins Knob Overlook

Blue Ridge Parkway Double Dip: Hiking the Cascades Trail & Tomkins Knob Overlook

We love finding ways to link up different trails to make our hikes more interesting, especially when…

The Williamston Trail Merger: Linking Three Paths for the Ultimate Day Hike

The Williamston Trail Merger: Linking Three Paths for the Ultimate Day Hike

We spent a day in Martin County exploring some of its best trails in Williamston, NC. These trails o…

Your Complete Guide to the Trails of Paddy Mountain Park

Your Complete Guide to the Trails of Paddy Mountain Park

Paddy Mountain Park sits in the heart of Ashe County in West Jefferson, North Carolina, and gives hi…

Discovering Serenity: A Day Hiker’s Guide to Paddy Mountain Park in West Jefferson, NC

Discovering Serenity: A Day Hiker’s Guide to Paddy Mountain Park in West Jefferson, NC

Paddy Mountain Park has 152 acres of cove forest and a 3.6-mile loop trail system. You can check out…

Scenic Stops: Exploring the Drivable Overlooks of Mount Jefferson

Scenic Stops: Exploring the Drivable Overlooks of Mount Jefferson

The drivable overlooks at Mount Jefferson State Natural Area give visitors easy access to some of th…

Trails of Mount Jefferson: A Guide to the Peaks and Paths of the State Natural Area

Trails of Mount Jefferson: A Guide to the Peaks and Paths of the State Natural Area

Hi, fellow adventurers! If you’re looking for a quick getaway in North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountai…