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Are you feeling it? You know, the warm fuzzies mixed with lump-in-my-throat, mixed with “what will she say?!” mixed with “oh no, what if I faint?” That feeling.
The one that surfaces when you want to propose to the most beautiful, talented, special person in the world.
If you know what I’m talking about and you’re feeling it, read on. We’ve identified 10 of the best, most iconic, most beautiful places in Virginia’s Blue Ridge to propose marriage to the love of your life.
Take a deep breath and let your happily ever after begin. After all, doesn’t sharing the rest of your lives together sound like a really nice idea?
1. Roanoke Star Overlook | Roanoke
Virginia’s Blue Ridge has several iconic locations, but one of the most visible and recognizable is the Roanoke Star on Mill Mountain. Its neon shines brightly and sometimes its colors change. The view from the star is breathtaking and sweeping. Really, there is no reason to wonder why it’s likely the most popular spot to pop the question.
>> 10 Fun Things to Do on Mill Mountain
2. McAfee Knob | Catawba
One of the most photographed locations on the Appalachian Trail is McAfee Knob. You’ll want to stay on the path to preserve the gift of such a place. If you want incredible photography of your moment, have a friend arrive before you and ask them to take the trail to the left and look back toward the rock where you’ll be on a knee asking for forever. This is your “I’m the king of the world” moment.
>> 10 Great Hiking Trails in Virginia's Blue Ridge
3. Sharp Top Mountain & Picnic at Abbott Lake | Blue Ridge Parkway - Milepost 86
The Peaks of Otter are landmarks along the Blue Ridge Parkway and Abbott Lake is their mirror. Pack a picnic to enjoy by the lake. It’s not typically flooded with people, so privacy will be easy to come by. If you don’t pop the question there, perhaps conquering a mountain will be ideal. From Sharp Top, 360-degrees of views will take your breath. Take you partner's breath away with the rock in your pocket.
>> 8 Must-See Spots on the Blue Ridge Parkway
4. Cascade Falls | Pembroke
One of Virginia’s most celebrated and impressive waterfalls is Cascade Falls. If possible, plan your trip for a weekday when the trail and picnic area are less crowded. Pro Tip: Bundle up and head to the falls after a few below-freezing days. (Hear me out!) The 69-foot-tall falls will be frozen and unlike you’ve seen them before. This is memory-making we’re talking about.
>> See the 7 Natural Wonders of Virginia's Blue Ridge
5. Roaring Run | Eagle Rock
A series of waterfalls make Roaring Run a popular hike in Virginia’s Blue Ridge. The trail zig-zags across the stream, wildflowers pop up in spring, and there are historic sites along the way, too. Without a doubt, you’ll find “the spot” without trying too hard.
>> Waterfall Hikes in Virginia's Blue Ridge
6. Rooftop at Center in the Square | Roanoke
As part of your Blue Ridge Day in Downtown Roanoke, the rooftop at Center in the Square is a dreamy place for a “yes.” You'll be surrounded by the unique architecture of downtown and the Blue Ridge Mountains frame the horizon. It’s a great location to celebrate the big moment.
>> Free Things to Do in Virginia's Blue Ridge
7. Smith Mountain Lake | Huddleston
A beach proposal is not out of the question in Virginia’s Blue Ridge. Hop on over to Smith Mountain Lake State Park and wait for the perfect moment to ask the biggest question of your life. Maybe under the stars on a crystal clear night or first thing in the morning as the sun’s rising?
If a proposal on a boat sounds more like you two, there are rentals available at various sites around the lake. Perhaps a sunset/twilight moment on the water while the boat drifts?
>> 7 Ways to Get on the Water at Smith Mountain Lake
8. Natural Bridge State Park | Natural Bridge
A soaring limestone natural bridge is the centerpiece of Natural Bridge State Park. It’s also one of Virginia’s most iconic national historic landmarks. Walk the Cedar Creek Trail to Lace Falls to find your perfect spot along the way. Will you take a knee right under the bridge or with the bridge in the background? This is one moment you’ll probably want to capture, so plan ahead or bring friends who will fall back for the photo.
>> Bucket List for Virginia's Blue Ridge
9. A Blue Ridge Parkway Overlook | Mileposts 92.1 to 167
We’ve previously identified 7 Iconic Overlooks on the Blue Ridge Parkway and we’re certain one of them could be your go-to for a time such as this. Psst! Our pick would probably be Roanoke Mountain Overlook at MP 120.3. It’s a four-mile loop route with two incredibly scenic options. Consider a sunset proposal here.
>> Scenic Mountain Drives in Virginia's Blue Ridge
10. Explore Park | Blue Ridge Parkway - Milepost 115, Roanoke
Park at Lot D or E and take the River Walk, which remains parallel to the Roanoke River. A sunset proposal anywhere along the river would be stunning.
>> 6 Easy Hikes in Virginia's Blue Ridge
Map of Locations
After you’ve conquered the hardest part of all – the asking – lead your fiancée to these resources for wedding planning. We have it all covered in Virginia’s Blue Ridge!
