There are a lot of overlooks on the Blue Ridge Parkway, more than 200. It is understandable that some will be more famous than others, but Pine Tree Overlook (milepost 95.2) is one that doesn’t get the attention it deserves. It is beautiful in all seasons and anytime of day, especially at sunrise.
Pine Tree Overlook near Roanoke, Virginia is very small. The parking area amounts to a little more than a pull off, unlike many other overlooks with parking lots
The roadside viewpoint is rimmed by a short wooden fence and a towering pine rests just of the parkway. It seems clear the overlook was named for this feature.
What is not captured in this name is the incredible view of the surrounding mountains and valley. The Upper Goose Creek Valley sits between the Pine Tree Overlook and the Peaks of Otter.
Sharp Top and Flat Top Mountains stand far in the distance and dominate the horizon.
The Best times to visit Pine Tree Overlook
Sunrise is the most beautiful time to visit. The sun rises slowly from behind the Peaks of Otter.
A lot of timing goes into catching a great sunrise. Catching one at Pine Tree Overlook is a bit easier because of the tall mountains and the huge pine tree.
You can be a little late to reaching the overlook and still catch the beautiful early morning light. To get the best picture you’ll need to walk up the narrow sidewalk past the pine and face toward Sharp Top mountain.
Beauty throughout the seasons
Spring and Summer are beautiful here, but surprisingly both Fall and Winter have the potential to be even more beautiful.
- Spring is at it’s best once the leaves start to bud on the trees. The elevation is 2490 feet so spring comes to the parkway here at almost the same time as the lower valley which is usually early to mid April.
- Summer at Pine Tree Overlook is best early in the morning. It gets hot even on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia.
- Fall is a great time to visit because of the surrounding deciduous trees. The trees on the mountains and valley change at almost the same time. Usually the last week of October is the prime leaf peeping.
- Winter can be the most beautiful time to visit, but it really depends. First, the Blue Ridge Parkway closes frequently in winter. But on the rare occasions when it snows at higher elevations and the parkway stays open it is breath taking.
One thing to note is that the Blue Ridge Parkway isn’t treated for winter weather. If you decide to drive on the parkway after cold wet weather you will likely encounter slick, icy, or snowy roads. Check for closures and use your best judgment before making a trip.
Other things to do nearby
Pine Tree Overlook is beautiful but it isn’t really a destination unless you are wanting to catch a quick sunrise. Because it is between Roanoke and Peaks of Otter there are a lot of things to do.
Other great overlooks for sunrise
Pine Tree Overlook is the premier overlook for sunrise in this section of the Blue Ridge Parkway but it isn’t the only great sunrise overlook between Roanoke and Peaks of Otter.
These other overlooks are awesome spots to see sunrise.
- View Montvale (95.4)
- Peaks of Otter Viewpoint (93.7)
- Bobblet’s Gap Overlook (93.1)
These are all very close and there is plenty of time to reach all of the overlooks during one sunrise. View Montvale and Peaks of Otter Viewpoint have a very similar view.
Bobblet’s Gap is on the opposite side of the road but there is an elevated position where you can look across the parkway.
Great nearby hikes
Pine Tree Overlook is only about a fifteen minute drive from Peaks of Otter (85.6). There are quite a few hikes at Peaks of Otter.
Sharp Top and Apple Orchard Falls are the most popular by far. Another great option if you aren’t feeling like making an intense climb is Johnson Family Farm.
Explore Park is another option if you are heading back toward Roanoke. There are several hikes available and none are very intense.
There are several historic buildings scattered across Explore Park as well as quite a few other activities.
Pine Tree Overlook should be on your list of overlooks to check out. Despite being a small and having an unassuming name it is stunning.
If you love sunrises you probably love sunsets too! We have a list of amazing overlooks of for sunset on the Blue Ridge Parkway that we think will help you catch those late day rays.
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