Cool down with a road trip to the scenic heights of the Blue Ridge Mountains

Story by Sheila Paz

When the Lowcountry summer starts to feel like someone turned the oven to broil, a drive to the mountains can feel like stepping into another world. The Blue Ridge Mountains offer a cool, quiet break from the heat and humidity of Beaufort County. These rolling, blue-hued ridges stretch across the Carolinas, Georgia and beyond, offering stunning overlooks, breezy trails and the kind of fresh air that makes you forget what 90 degrees with 80 percent humidity feels like. Here are a few favorite stops to help you trade sea level sweat for mountain chill, all within a day’s drive from Hilton Head.

Table Rock Mountain

Driving distance: 4.5 hours (230 miles)

This granite giant in Pickens County is hard to miss. Rising more than 3,000 feet, Table Rock serves up one of the best summit views in South Carolina. The hike to the top is a challenge: about 7.2 miles round trip with steep, rocky stretches, but the reward is a sweeping, blue-tinted panorama of the surrounding hills and the shimmering Table Rock Reservoir. The mountain is part of Table Rock State Park, a scenic 3,000-acre retreat filled with waterfalls, shaded forest trails and a peaceful swimming lake with a sandy beach. You can rent a pedal boat for a relaxing float across the water or stay overnight in one of the park’s historic cabins built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, a public work relief program created in 1933 as part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal during the Great Depression. Whether you’re hiking to the top or just enjoying the lake breeze, it’s a refreshing summer escape. Go early to beat the heat, bring plenty of water, and don’t rush the experience. There’s plenty to enjoy at your own pace.

Nearby hot spots

Caesars Head State Park (25 minutes): Home to the dramatic Caesars Head overlook and the Raven Cliff Falls trail.

Jones Gap State Park (30 minutes): Part of the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area, Jones Gap offers over 60 miles of trails, including the popular Rainbow Falls Trail leading to a 100-foot waterfall.

Pretty Place Chapel (30 minutes): A mountaintop open-air chapel with one of the most stunning views in the state, perfect for a peaceful morning visit.

Great Craggy Mountains

Driving distance: 5.5 hours (310 miles)

Just north of Asheville, the Great Craggy Mountains are known for their rugged rock faces and high ridgelines. For a short but rewarding hike, try the Craggy Pinnacle Trail off milepost 364 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. The path is steep but manageable, leading to a 360-degree overlook that shows off the soft blue waves of mountains stretching far into the distance. Wildflowers peak in late spring, and fog often rolls in during the morning. Wait it out for the best views.

Nearby hot spots

Asheville (30 minutes): A mountain city full of breweries, art galleries and eclectic restaurants.

Mount Mitchell (45 minutes): The highest peak east of the Mississippi at 6,684 feet.

Brasstown Bald

Driving distance: 5.5 hours (290 miles)

Georgia’s highest peak sits at 4,784 feet and offers panoramic views from its summit observation deck. On clear days you can see as far as Atlanta to the south and the Smokies to the north. You can hike up or take a shuttle from the visitor center. Afternoon storms are common in summer, so go early. Check shuttle availability if you want to avoid the steep hike.

Nearby hot spots

Vogel State Park (35 minutes): A peaceful spot for picnicking, swimming and waterfall hikes.

Helen (45 minutes): A quirky Bavarian-themed town with tubing, dining and unique shopping.

Grandfather Mountain

Driving distance: 6 hours (340 miles)

This North Carolina landmark offers a true mountaintop experience. Walk across the Mile High Swinging Bridge for breathtaking views, then explore the nature museum, wildlife habitats and miles of hiking trails. It’s a great mix of scenic beauty and family-friendly attractions. Buy tickets online to reserve entry. The wind picks up at the bridge, so secure your hat.

Nearby hot spots

Linville Falls (40 minutes): One of the most photographed waterfalls in North Carolina.

Blowing Rock (45 minutes): A charming town with boutique shops, great food and its namesake cliffside overlook.

Linn Cove Viaduct

Driving distance: 6 hours (330 miles)

One of the most photographed stretches of the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Linn Cove Viaduct winds around Grandfather Mountain in a graceful curve. Stop nearby and walk the short trail beneath it for a view of both the structure and the surrounding ridgelines. Early morning is the best time to catch the fog lifting through the trees. Parking is limited. Go early or on a weekday.

Nearby hot spots

Rough Ridge Trail (10 minutes): A short hike with sweeping views and rock outcroppings.

Moses Cone Memorial Park (30 minutes): Known for its historic mansion and peaceful carriage trails.

Beech Mountain

Driving distance: 6.5 hours (360 miles)

At 5,506 feet, Beech Mountain is the highest town east of the Rockies. Even in July, nighttime temps can dip into the 50s, making it a perfect retreat from the Lowcountry heat. Ride the scenic chairlift at Beech Mountain Resort for postcard-worthy views, then grab a drink at the Skybar or explore nearby hiking trails and waterfalls. Bring a light jacket even in summer, and check the chairlift schedule before visiting.

Nearby hot spots

Banner Elk (20 minutes): A cozy mountain town with great dining and shopping.

Elk River Falls (35 minutes): A beautiful 50-foot waterfall just a short hike from the road.

Clingmans Dome

Driving distance: 6.5 hours (375 miles)

At 6,643 feet, Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and all of Tennessee. A paved half-mile walk leads to the observation tower, where you can see ridgelines stretch across seven states on a clear day. Even when it’s hazy, the layers of misty blue make for a memorable view. The temperature at the top is often 15-20 degrees cooler than the base, so bring layers.

Nearby hot spots

Gatlinburg (1 hour): A busy tourist town with restaurants, rides, and shops.

Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail (1 hour): A one-way scenic drive with waterfalls, streams and hiking trails.