The Lump Overlook sits at Milepost 264.4 on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Purlear, North Carolina. This small, grassy hill rises gently above the nearby mountains and offers one of the Parkway’s favorite panoramic views. On clear days, you can see layers of the southern Blue Ridge stretching to the horizon, with Grandfather Mountain often visible in the distance.
The overlook got its unusual name from the shape of the hill. For years, it has been a popular place for picnics, flying kites, or just lying in the grass and watching clouds drift by. A short, easy trail circles the top of The Lump, giving visitors great views and information about the area’s natural and cultural history. At about 3,450 feet, the overlook is one of the first Parkway stops to bloom with wildflowers in spring and one of the last to keep its autumn colors, making it a quiet favorite for locals and photographers all year.
Resources
National Park Service – Blue Ridge Parkway Webpage
Blue Ridge Parkway Association Website
Location
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