Howard Knob County Park officially unveiled a new aerial overlook and expanded visitor amenities in June, enhancing access to its renowned panoramic views. The project includes a new ADA-accessible scenic walkway, a picnic shelter equipped with charcoal grills and tables, and a significantly expanded parking area, aiming to provide a more inclusive and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Designed by Destination by Design, the new panoramic walkway offers an impressive 200-degree view from an elevation of 4,396 feet. This addition significantly upgrades the park’s longstanding overlook, making the stunning vistas of the High Country more accessible.
The initial concept for these improvements was developed in 2018 as part of Imagine Watauga, a 15-year strategic plan. According to its website, Imagine Watauga aims to “improve the quality of life” throughout Watauga County and is spearheaded by the tourism authorities of both Watauga County and Boone.
Scott Carter, who took over as the Watauga County Parks and Recreation Department Director in July, visited the new overlook just two weeks into his tenure. He recalled the positive impression it made, saying he brought his 13-year-old daughter, and upon arrival, "she looked at me and said, ‘Wow.’ I replied, ‘I know, isn’t it great?’" Carter has returned multiple times since and expressed his hope that the new picnic shelter will become a popular spot for community activities and small gatherings.
Visitors are already experiencing the changes. James Blair, an Appalachian State University alumnus, recently revisited Howard Knob, noting the significant development since his last visit in 2018 during his freshman year. Blair mentioned the area was "less developed then," and he returned to compare it to his earlier memories.
Jamie and Joanie Ogden, visiting from Banner Elk, also explored Howard Knob. Joanie Ogden, whose daughter graduated from App State in 2007, found the view of Boone from Howard Knob to be different than she had imagined. She remarked on the "impressive" scenery, particularly noting the beautiful trees after recent rains, and added, "It would be amazing to see it in autumn." Carter echoed this sentiment, anticipating that the view during peak fall foliage will be "spectacular." Case Neal, a senior landscape architect at Destination by Design, also highlighted the changing seasons as a draw, stating there is "always something new to see."
A key feature of the new overlook is its completely flat surface, which greatly contributes to its ADA accessibility. Joanie Ogden specifically recognized this improvement, noting that in the past, visitors had to climb over rocks to reach the viewing areas. She observed that "as we get older, climbing those rocks would no longer be so easy." Jamie Ogden, a cartographer, drew a comparison between the panoramic view and his professional work, stating, "I’m used to seeing this perspective, and I’ve always loved it. I really enjoy looking down and using images to observe the Earth."
While the new amenities are open for public enjoyment, an official inauguration ceremony is still pending. Hope Thingelstad, Director of Partnerships and Outreach for the Boone Tourism Development Authority, indicated that the Boone TDA hopes to hold the ceremony before the end of the year.
Howard Knob County Park operates daily from May 1 to October 20, with hours from 8:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
