The National Park Service puts forth a remarkable effort in showcasing a long list of highlights along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The route's 469 miles follows the Appalachian Mountain crests, connecting the Great Smoky Mountains and Shenandoah national parks. One of the historic features, the Cone Mansion, is located near milepost 294 and the town of Blowing Rock. The Moses H. Cone Memorial Park highlights the Flat Top Manor, now a Blue Ridge Parkway visitor center. The mansion is set among 25 miles of hikable carriage road trails, the Cone Cemetery and the Flat Top Observation Tower.
   The magnificent Flat Top Manor was once the summer home of the denim king, Moses H. Cone. The luxurious 20 room home looks down the mountainside toward Bass Lake and the valley below. The Cone's enhanced their 3500 acre estate with an extensive orchard, planting 32,000 apple trees. They also imported hemlocks, white pines and autumn's king of color, the sugar maple. Two of the Blue Ridge Parkway's most popular destinations, Moses H. Cone Memorial Park and adjacent Julian Price Memorial Park, make up the largest recreation development along the parkway. Here in this 4300 acre rec area visitors enjoy hiking, fishing, canoeing, camping, guided walks and evening campfire programs.

     Area Map