Tips on Eloping at Wiseman’s View in Linville Gorge
If you can get there, this public overlook is a nice option for micro-weddings or elopements
4x4 Recommended Location
Make sure your vehicle has extra clearance and off-roading capabilities
Accessible Views For Micro-Gatherings
Considering an elopement, but want to include a teeny guest list? Read on…
Often, when couples inquire, they sometimes have a few guests in mind. But for many public outdoor locations that are often celebrated at, those sensitive areas can be stressed when groups larger than 10 or so gather in a spot for a ceremony or celebration. Think: more foot-traffic on trails, cars in parking lots, etc.
As the group size increases, so does the importance of finding the proper location for you and your group. Part of this consideration in the elopement planning phase is accessibility for everyone. Wiseman’s View can be an attractive option if you have a small group and mobility might be an issue. Or, your celebration requires having a paved access (like this location does.)
Parking Area and Approach
Hike length: is less than 10 minutes at a normal pace.
The parking area is pretty sizeable, so parking is typically not a problem, however it’s suggested visitors carpool whenever possible.
Once you make the walk out to the overlook area, you’ll see two prominent structures of stone, cement, and timber.
Off to the left there are a few other areas that are less visibly man-made looking. These spots are more craggy and natural looking - something that I always prefer - and you might too!
When Should You Marry at Wiseman’s?
First things first: time of day. For most photographers, time of day is important. Morning and evening are typically the best light, but occasionally the weather upends that and the light can be beautiful the whole time. Of particular note though is this location faces east and southeast. For this reason, I don’t love to be here for sunset because your sunset will be obscured by the trees. Because of this fact, this location can make for a wonderful sunrise location before parting with family and sneaking in a couples session someplace else - like a waterfall or nearby summit.
What season?
This location is a great option from April until Early November. After the first week or so of November, we lose a lot of color in the fall foliage, and everything can begin to look a bit brown. However, if that’s your preferred date, we can make that work! A pop of color in your attire can be stunning!
Wiseman’s View FAQs
What’s the road like getting there?
The road to Wiseman’s View Scenic Overlook is often very difficult or impossible to drive without AWD/4WD and a bit of clearance (read: more than my Prius). I highly recommend that couples (and their guests) consider this before choosing this location. With the right vehicle, or a little luck with road conditions, getting the Wiseman’s View isn’t that remarkable. The road conditions vary quite a bit throughout the year depending on rainfall and visitors to the area. Bottom line: SUV-type vehicles are best, as is carpooling folks in. The last thing you want is the inability to get to your ceremony location day-of!
How far away is Wiseman’s View from Asheville?
It’s about 63 miles from Asheville to reach the parking area for Wiseman’s View. On average, the drive typically takes about 1.5 hours.
What is the hike/approach like?
From the parking area to the overlook, it’s about 2/10 of a mile on a paved path. The path is accessible by wheelchair and will not get muddy after or during a rain for couples who are concerned about that.
Which vendors do we need to hire first?
First, make sure you have an experienced adventure elopement photographer like me! Fill out my inquiry form and let’s set up a time to talk!
Second, find your officiant. My vendor page has a few I have worked with and recommend, but the Register of Deeds accepts online ordination, too. Grab your best friend and have them become ordained to marry you if that’s more in line with your vision.
A note on professional officiants: It’s been my experience that a hired officiant adds a level of professionalism and weight to the moment that is hard to beat. They are friendly, warm, down-to-earth folks who make your ceremony beautiful and memorable. Pro-tip: Book them early! Officiants book up fast.
Do we need a NPS permit to get married there?
No. On the NPS website it states, “The following locations are not within the boundary or jurisdiction of the Blue Ridge Parkway and do not require a Special Use Permit from the NPS: Wiseman’s View, Black Balsam Knob, Sam’s Knob, Grandfather Mountain, Mount Mitchell, and Jump Off Rock. Wiseman’s View Scenic Overlook doesn’t require a permit.
How do you get there?
Drive US 221 to the community of Linville Falls (~24 miles). Turn right onto NC Highway 183. Drive one mile to the large “Linville Gorge” sign (on the right), turning onto the Kistler Memorial Highway (also known as 1238 and old NC 105). Drive four miles to Wiseman's View parking area (a lot on the left-hand side).
Are there any amenities at Wiseman’s View?
There is a bathroom available in the parking area of Wiseman’s View. It’s not the prettiest bathroom around, having it there is sorta nice. If you need a spot to change, though, just let me know and I can bring my one-person changing tent. There is no potable water there, so don’t forget to pack extra water along in case you get thirsty.
Can we bring our dog?
Yes! Dogs are allowed at Wiseman’s View. But, be respectful by keeping them leashed up and remember to clean up after them. Don’t forget to bring a few bags along and make sure you pack everything out at the end.
What is the best time of year to get married at Wiseman’s View?
I recommend April-October. The rhododendrons bloom around late May through mid June.
Rainfall: late spring and summer means more rainfall - so arrive prepared by packing a rain jacket and some clear umbrellas just in case.
Who should elope here?
I think Wiseman’s View is a great spot for couples that want easy proximity to views, a minimal hike for a small guest list, but also want access to adventure should they want to have an adventure session afterward at any number of absolutely stunning overlooks and waterfalls nearby.
What days of the week are best for getting married here?
If you can make it work, I recommend considering a mid-week ceremony. There are *typically* fewer visitors mid-week, which makes the experience feel a little more private here. In general, I never recommend couples schedule their weddings or engagement sessions on Saturdays and Sundays for the simple reason there will be a greater likelihood of sharing the spot with other marrying couples or tourists.
Let’s Talk!
Even if you only have a slight idea about what this might all look like, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m chill! Let’s talk and figure out what you really want on your wedding day.
Linville Gorge Info
The Linville Gorge Wilderness is the third largest wilderness area in North Carolina and one of only two wilderness gorges in the Southern United States. Maintained by the United States Forest Service, it comprises 11,786 acres around the Linville River, and is situated inside the Pisgah National Forest.
The river is approximately 1,400 feet (400 m) below the ridge, thus hiking in and out of the Gorge is challenging and enjoyable for those who like serious hiking. The plant and animal community is extremely diverse, with a dense hardwood/pine forest and a wide variety of smaller trees and other plants as well as bear, fox, raccoon, trout, grouse, wild turkey, vultures, owls, hawks, copperheads, and timber rattlesnakes.
Source: Wikipedia
Linville Gorge is my current favorite area to photograph couples. Every time I shoot an elopement, engagement or proposal there, I see new perspectives of spots I’ve been to many times before, as well as finding new spots for future shoots. Leaving Linville Gorge typically has me making notes of things to check out next time, shots I should try doing, etc. I know a spot is worthy when I always leave excited to come back and try to explore more and find better and better shots.
Wiseman’s View video tour
Here’s a short tour video about Wiseman’s by HD Carolina. They have a lot of great, informative videos of the region.
Client Testimonials
“ABOVE AND BEYOND”
“Andy captured every beautiful moment of our Asheville elopement and then some. His personality made us feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera. It felt like one of our most professional friends were behind the camera. He went above and beyond to help pull this off within a matter of 24 hours after first speaking to him on the phone. We cried when we saw the beauty he captured on our summer sunset elopement at Craggy Gardens. Truly couldn’t recommend someone better than MountainWed!”
— Chloe W.
“A FANTASTIC CHOICE”
“Andy is truly a magnificent artist! We never imagined we'd see such incredible photos of ourselves for our Engagement Shoot. His knowledge of local photogenic spots and natural lighting, combined with his agility to climb anywhere for the right angle, makes him a fantastic choice for a mountain shoot! Fun fact: we had so much fun just hanging out with him during our shoot at the Chimneys that we'd consider any good photos to just be a bonus to that amazing time we had......but of course, we were completely blown away when he finished our gallery!
Of note: We are two women and felt completely comfortable, celebrated, understood and respected the entire time we were with Andy. In a vulnerable situation like this, it was very important to us.”
— Sara C.
“OUR PICTURES ARE DIVINE!!!”
“Andy was INCREDIBLE! He always responded promptly and he was super professional, both in the months leading up to our wedding and after our wedding. On the day of our wedding he was on time and his vibe created such a calm and fun environment for us! Not to mention, our pictures are DIVINE!!! Jaw dropping. And we got back so many. He did such an outstanding job. His attention to detail and efforts to get the shot no matter what it took were everything! He also got us sneak peaks back the next morning and continued to send us some in the meantime and communicate to us until the rest came. We truly had so much fun with Andy and that meant a lot, considering weddings are usually stressful, but not for us! He’s the best of the best!”
— Jacqueline H.
