The Shining Rock Wilderness Area in Canton, North Carolina, is home to several breathtaking phenomena. It is the largest Wilderness area in the state, boasting many mountains that exceed 5,000 feet with three peaks exceeding 6,000 feet. But maybe even more desirable is the lookalike natural wonder of the Dragon Tree, which is underrated compared to its surroundings. For one, the fantastic Skinny Dip Falls which has changed due to some flooding is still worth the hike. And the beginning of the trail couldn’t hold a more magnificent spot than the Looking Glass Rock Overlook. How can a tree follow this gloriously famous landmark you ask? It is the intimacy that maximizes your experience — somehow touching it and feeling its perplexing aura might compel you to write a poem.   

The starting point for the one-mile out-and-back hike is beyond impressive.

Trisha Smith/AllTrails Drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway to milepost 417, between U.S. Highway 276 and N.C. Route 215, and park at the Looking Glass Rock Overlook. Looking Glass Rock Overlook, North Carolina 28716, USA

When you finally tear yourself away from the breathtaking view, cross the street and pick up the short path that leads to Mountains-to-Sea Trail.

Amber Taylor/AllTrails

While the excursion is small, take a well-needed rest along the way to breathe in your surroundings.

Sarah Cait/AllTrails We don’t want to miss anything.

When you reach the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, look for white circle markers then turn left.

Jennifer Turner/AllTrails

You will close in on the mysterious Dragon Tree, where legend meets history.

Matt Boudreaux/AllTrails It feels a little eerie as you approach, as though you are intruding.

You will get quiet as you step around it slowly and consider its dynamic architecture.

Matt Miles/AllTrails Just look how gorgeous it is in the fall. Some think it is an American Indian trail marking tree, pointing to a water source.

Others see a face of a dragon as it majestically dips down in greeting.

Lily Carothers/AllTrails

Tell us — what do you see?

Christine J/AllTrails

In the summer, climb the jagged rocks and take a dip in some of the smaller swimming holes.

Adam Hill/AllTrails

The gorgeous Skinny Dip Falls has endured some flood damage, but the new terrain is interesting.

Destiny Crawford/AllTrails

And the way out is uphill and slower.

Sarah Cait/AllTrails Are you brave enough to pass the Dragon Tree at night?

Choose a season, pack your bag, and be inspired by this lookalike natural wonder. And if you go, be sure to check out other hiking trails at Shining Rock Wilderness Area.

Trisha Smith/AllTrails

Drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway to milepost 417, between U.S. Highway 276 and N.C. Route 215, and park at the Looking Glass Rock Overlook.

Looking Glass Rock Overlook, North Carolina 28716, USA

Amber Taylor/AllTrails

Sarah Cait/AllTrails

We don’t want to miss anything.

Jennifer Turner/AllTrails

Matt Boudreaux/AllTrails

It feels a little eerie as you approach, as though you are intruding.

Matt Miles/AllTrails

Just look how gorgeous it is in the fall. Some think it is an American Indian trail marking tree, pointing to a water source.

Lily Carothers/AllTrails

Christine J/AllTrails

Adam Hill/AllTrails

Destiny Crawford/AllTrails

Are you brave enough to pass the Dragon Tree at night?

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Address: Shining Rock Wilderness, Canton, NC 28716, USA