Located 4,000 feet above sea level, this rocky outcropping emanating from a huge cliff overhangs the Johns River Gorge 3,000 feet below. This landmark has been a travel attraction since 1933. It got its unique name due to a spectacular phenomenon: Light objects that are dropped from it fly upwards! The rocky walls of the gorge form a flume through which the northwest wind -- the prevailing wind -- blows through the gorge toward The Rock with such force that when someone throws a relatively light object off of the outcropping toward the chasm below, that object will return! The wind's path of least resistance is up the steep slopes surmounted by the outcropping, resulting in a nearly vertical and strong wind.
Visitors to The Rock are treated to magnificent and breathtaking vistas -- to the southwest are Hawksbill Mountain and Table Rock. To the west are Grandfather Mountain (the highest peak in the Blue Ridge chain) and Mount Mitchell (the highest peak east of the Mississippi). There is no other place in the world quite like this fantastic landmark! Take advantage of Choice Hotels and all they have to offer you while you are near The Blowing Rock. Hotels in the area allow you to stay conveniently close to where you want to be. When you stay at Choice Hotels, you can enjoy affordable rates, many amenities, and friendly service. Reserve your room near this popular attraction today! We look forward to hosting you soon!