Points of Interest - Milepost 216 to 248
- Cumberland Knob - Milepost 217.5- A 1,000 acres park and the northernmost visitor center in North Carolina. Picnic areas and trails. Take the 15 minute loop trail to Cumberland Knob, described on the Parkway guide as and ideal lazy-day walk, or the more strenuous Gully Creek Trail , a 2 hour loop meandering by a stream into Gully Creek Gorge. Sparta-Milepost 229, then about 7 miles north on Highway 21. FREE
- Fox Hunter's Paradise - MP 218.6 An overlook & parking area with 10 minute trail walk to the Paradise, where old-time hunters listened for their hounds. Alt. 2,805. FREE
- Stone Mountain State Park - 1 hr. to a whole weekend - Milepost 229, then take Highway 21 South to Roaring Gap. The park entrance is 7 miles southwest of Roaring Gap off SR 1002, then follow John P. Frank Parkway. The park offers several hiking trails, to include one to the summit of the 600-foot granite dome. Among the camping choices available are: family type ,backcountry, and group camping. For fishing the park offers more than 17 miles of designated trout waters. FREE
- Little Glade Pond - A nice place to picnic and try your luck at fishing! (NC fishing license required) FREE
- Mahogany Rock Mountain - Located on the Parkway, Mahogany Rock Mountain is a prime place to view hawks sailing the updraft and thermals along the Blue Ridge on their southern migration. The best time to view the migration is in late August and early September. Most activity starts around 10am and continue through 4:30 or 5:00 pm. FREE
- Shelton Vineyards - 21 miles from Milepost 199.5 or 215-286 Cabernet Lane, Dobson. The rolling hills of the Yadkin Valley provide the ideal drainage and topography for growing premium vinifera grapes. Daily tours and tastings *Gift shop* Handcrafted Artisan Cheeses* Summer Outdoor Concert Series* Beautifully landscaped grounds and picnic area. 336-372-2562, 800-650-3236 or www.sheltonvineyards.com FREE
- Doughton Park - MP 238.5 - 244.7 - Visit the restored Brinegar Cabin and, during the summer months, watch hand-weaving demonstrations. The park is located in seven thousand acres of land and offers picnic areas and 30 miles of hiking trails. Trout fishing (you need a state fishing license) and primitive back-country camping sites are also available. Reserve with park officials. During the winter months go cross-country skiing in Doughton Park- park has gently rolling terrain and numerous trails. When park is accessible. (call parkway ranger's office at 336-372-8568). FREE
- Thistle Meadow Winery - Milepost 246 (Laurel Springs). Take Elk Knob Road (SR 1143) just before milepost 246, drive for 3 miles to the Burgiss Farm. A winery that allows you to see just how wine is made daily and how you can make wine to YOUR taste. Visitors Welcomed @ Thistle Meadow Winery. 1 800-233 1505 or check them out online at www.thistlemeadowwinery.com