The Blowing Rock is an immense cliff 4000 feet above sea level, over-hanging Johns River Gorge 3000 feet below. The phenomenon is so called because the rocky walls of the gorge form a flume through which the northwest wind seeps with such force that it returns light objects cast over the void. The current of air flowing upward from the Rock prompted the Ripley's "Believe-It-Or-Not" cartoon about "the only place in the world where snow falls upside down." Enjoy the scenic views and observation tower, gardens, small garden waterfall and unique gift shop.