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Aesthetic: Scenic state park known for its rock climbing, hiking trails, and waterfalls. My Favorites: Lower Cascade Falls. Experience: I've been looking for a beautiful park like this since we moved from Oregon, and it was truly magical. The Lower Cascade Falls hike was amazing at the end, I could hang out and swim in that waterfall all day! I can't wait until it warms up to enjoy it more. We also checked out the little cave, and that was an easy hike and interesting area to explore. I'm excited to come back and spend more time one day.
Hanging rock is a beautiful state park not too far from Winston Salem. My husband and I decided to visit the lake for the day. The lake is open for swimming during the summer. It is quite reasonable at six dollars for adults. They have a bath house to shower and change as well as a snack bar if you need refreshments. We brought a picnic lunch and really had a nice time at the lake. It is very clean and cool. They also have lifeguards.
Excellent hiking spot! We hiked about 4 miles total to get up to the top. It was a little longer than we expected - they had changed the trail route - so maybe that's why? Such a nice view from the top! I think if we had been there just a week or two earlier we would have had the peak fall colors, but we still had a pretty view. We spent a little bit of time at the top and then also hung out at the lodge area after our hike, where they had some nice wooden rocking chairs overlooking the lake (bathrooms were also in this spot).
I love being outside and hiking. We decided to drive up here and hike. They have several paths and waterfalls to explore. We came a week after the snow and it was still icy in some areas. It was so cold that the water falls were frozen The hike isn't long but it's slightly difficult due to the inclines. Once you make it to the top and see the view you realize it was all worth it! There are bathrooms and a store filled with goodies. We purchased magnets to add to our fridge!
My wife and I wanted to get out and enjoy our one year anniversary, so decided to go for a hike at Hanging Rock state park. Just a short drive from the Greensboro area, and you can have a nice selection of hiking trails, of varying difficulties and lengths. We took the main trail and hiked to the top which has recently been rerouted to provide a more simplified difficulty level to all hikers. In the past this trail had some really large steps which the park ranger said caused a lot of tripping, but they changed it to avoid falls and injuries. The new path from the parking lot is about 1.8 miles each way. And once you get up there, you can enjoy the fresh air, and the endless views. Once we got back to the car we went for another short hike to one of the multiple waterfalls. If you enjoy the outdoors, Hanging Rock is a great place, event offering camp sites for rent, a lake for swimming on the hot summer days, and lots of beauty to explore.
Hanging Rock has been voted the state's best park before by various sources, and it can be easy to see why. There's hikes for newbies, more seasoned, and veteran hikers. Honestly, I grew up going here almost every weekend in high school and several years beyond. The trails are well marked, can be mixed and matched for a different experience, and have a variety of sites to see. There's an old CCC foundation near the entrance, a large campground, beautiful lake, and remodeled visitor center with exhibit and history. The Hanging Rock trail is only two miles round trip and paved, but it's a climb! My favorite, Moore's Wall, is a beast of a haul following a rocky path up the mountain, but the view from the tower is awesome. The waterfalls are beautiful, and there are several. If you get out early enough, an ice cream store may await you at the bottom of the mountain......
Hanging Rock State Park is a short drive from King, NC, and the area where our grandparents live. The Hanging Rock trail is 1.3 miles and considered moderate difficulty. I felt like the hike to the very top was a little more than "moderately" difficult, especially with the rocks. It was a Saturday, so the crowd at the park included lots of families and kids. Those kids who hiked all the way up were troopers, especially on a cold day. The park was very clean and well kept. I'd love to visit again during the Fall when the leaves change color and the scenery is more beautiful.
Really beautiful natural park. I happened across here a few years back visiting a friend in Winston-Salem and we headed up here for some nature time. It was a cold day so we didn't last too long, but a stunning area with many trails, and many options on how to spend your day. In North Carolina, but close to the Virginia border, so a good spot for many to check out.
Drove out here after picking up a set of tables and chairs for our friend Digger from a Facebook Marketplace listing. Winding roads, farms, fields and forest, it was a beautiful ride out. We stopped to prepare for our hike & met a JW Brother at the park entrance gift shop. Then we hit the trail...only sorta prepared. Mike carried a CVS bag with a store bought water & a park map. It was plenty for a simple out & back 1.8mi each way. The weather was sunny & cool. The trail was easy, well marked and we met maybe a dozen sets of hikers. Super glad we chose today to hike Hanging Rock because the sky was clear and sunny. We could see for miles and miles! Spectacular! Also watched a half dozen large birds play in the wind below us. Definitely recommend.
We hiked the park's iconic namesake trail, Hanging Rock Trail. It was quite short, so it took us about an hour and a half to hike up and back down, including a lunch break at the overlook. The trail was a steep ascent. The overlook had pretty panoramic views. Admission to the park is free. The visitor center has a nice museum exhibit area, friendly staff, free maps, and restrooms. The gift shop was quite empty.
Beautiful hikes with waterfall views and more. Less than an hours drive from Greensboro. Very clean and informative visitors center. Plenty of parking. Filtered water fountains to fill your water bottle. Bring your furry friend. All dogs must be on a leash. Definitely wear hiking boots. This time of year lots of Leaves are on the ground and can be slippery. Take your time and enjoy the scenery.
The visitors center has a mini museum about the local Native history, animals, and plants. I got some cute stickers, a patch, and a t-shirt at the gift shop. The young brunette at the front desk was very helpful, recommending which trails to prioritize based on what I wanted to see, and clarifying the difficulty levels of the trails. I chatted with a local regular who was also very friendly. Free parking, clean restrooms, water fountains, and clear signage to all the trails; this is a perfect rally point to make a full day out of exploring Hanging Rock. Don't skip the deck at the back--beautiful view with tables, would make a good picnic spot! read more
I hiked the hanging rock trail, window falls and hidden falls. The window waterfall was so fun! I almost missed the window; even though there was a sign that pointed in that direction. From the sign/arrow that points at window rock, climb down and you will see the window in the rock to your right. Through the window, you can see a waterfall! Visitor center has nice and clean restrooms. Their water refill station was not working when I went. read more
5 months ago
Hanging rock is absolutely beautiful for a day trip or even a weekend camping trip. They have many different hiking trails and waterfalls and in the summertime they have a lake you can go swimming in. Such a fun place!! read more
Aesthetic: Scenic state park known for its rock climbing, hiking trails, and waterfalls. My Favorites: Lower Cascade Falls. Experience: I've been looking for a beautiful park like this since we moved from Oregon, and it was truly magical. The Lower Cascade Falls hike was amazing at the end, I could hang out and swim in that waterfall all day! I can't wait until it warms up to enjoy it more. We also checked out the little cave, and that was an easy hike and interesting area to explore. I'm excited to come back and spend more time one day. read more
Hanging rock is a beautiful state park not too far from Winston Salem. My husband and I decided to visit the lake for the day. The lake is open for swimming during the summer. It is quite reasonable at six dollars for adults. They have a bath house to shower and change as well as a snack bar if you need refreshments. We brought a picnic lunch and really had a nice time at the lake. It is very clean and cool. They also have lifeguards. read more
1 month ago
Excellent hiking spot! We hiked about 4 miles total to get up to the top. It was a little longer than we expected - they had changed the trail route - so maybe that's why? Such a nice view from the top! I think if we had been there just a week or two earlier we would have had the peak fall colors, but we still had a pretty view. We spent a little bit of time at the top and then also hung out at the lodge area after our hike, where they had some nice wooden rocking chairs overlooking the lake (bathrooms were also in this spot). read more
I love being outside and hiking. We decided to drive up here and hike. They have several paths and waterfalls to explore. We came a week after the snow and it was still icy in some areas. It was so cold that the water falls were frozen The hike isn't long but it's slightly difficult due to the inclines. Once you make it to the top and see the view you realize it was all worth it! There are bathrooms and a store filled with goodies. We purchased magnets to add to our fridge! read more
My wife and I wanted to get out and enjoy our one year anniversary, so decided to go for a hike at Hanging Rock state park. Just a short drive from the Greensboro area, and you can have a nice selection of hiking trails, of varying difficulties and lengths. We took the main trail and hiked to the top which has recently been rerouted to provide a more simplified difficulty level to all hikers. In the past this trail had some really large steps which the park ranger said caused a lot of tripping, but they changed it to avoid falls and injuries. The new path from the parking lot is about 1.8 miles each way. And once you get up there, you can enjoy the fresh air, and the endless views. Once we got back to the car we went for another short hike to one of the multiple waterfalls. If you enjoy the outdoors, Hanging Rock is a great place, event offering camp sites for rent, a lake for swimming on the hot summer days, and lots of beauty to explore. read more
Hanging Rock has been voted the state's best park before by various sources, and it can be easy to see why. There's hikes for newbies, more seasoned, and veteran hikers. Honestly, I grew up going here almost every weekend in high school and several years beyond. The trails are well marked, can be mixed and matched for a different experience, and have a variety of sites to see. There's an old CCC foundation near the entrance, a large campground, beautiful lake, and remodeled visitor center with exhibit and history. The Hanging Rock trail is only two miles round trip and paved, but it's a climb! My favorite, Moore's Wall, is a beast of a haul following a rocky path up the mountain, but the view from the tower is awesome. The waterfalls are beautiful, and there are several. If you get out early enough, an ice cream store may await you at the bottom of the mountain...... read more
2 years ago
Hanging Rock State Park is a short drive from King, NC, and the area where our grandparents live. The Hanging Rock trail is 1.3 miles and considered moderate difficulty. I felt like the hike to the very top was a little more than "moderately" difficult, especially with the rocks. It was a Saturday, so the crowd at the park included lots of families and kids. Those kids who hiked all the way up were troopers, especially on a cold day. The park was very clean and well kept. I'd love to visit again during the Fall when the leaves change color and the scenery is more beautiful. read more
Really beautiful natural park. I happened across here a few years back visiting a friend in Winston-Salem and we headed up here for some nature time. It was a cold day so we didn't last too long, but a stunning area with many trails, and many options on how to spend your day. In North Carolina, but close to the Virginia border, so a good spot for many to check out. read more
7 months ago
It's a bit of a grueling hike due to steep inclines but it is worth the view and physical accomplishment. They have since rerouted the end area of the trail right before the top which is slightly easier but not so easy that you won't feel a challenge. Worth doing at least once! read more
1 year ago
Drove out here after picking up a set of tables and chairs for our friend Digger from a Facebook Marketplace listing. Winding roads, farms, fields and forest, it was a beautiful ride out. We stopped to prepare for our hike & met a JW Brother at the park entrance gift shop. Then we hit the trail...only sorta prepared. Mike carried a CVS bag with a store bought water & a park map. It was plenty for a simple out & back 1.8mi each way. The weather was sunny & cool. The trail was easy, well marked and we met maybe a dozen sets of hikers. Super glad we chose today to hike Hanging Rock because the sky was clear and sunny. We could see for miles and miles! Spectacular! Also watched a half dozen large birds play in the wind below us. Definitely recommend. read more
11 months ago
1 year ago
We hiked the park's iconic namesake trail, Hanging Rock Trail. It was quite short, so it took us about an hour and a half to hike up and back down, including a lunch break at the overlook. The trail was a steep ascent. The overlook had pretty panoramic views. Admission to the park is free. The visitor center has a nice museum exhibit area, friendly staff, free maps, and restrooms. The gift shop was quite empty. read more
3 years ago
Beautiful hikes with waterfall views and more. Less than an hours drive from Greensboro. Very clean and informative visitors center. Plenty of parking. Filtered water fountains to fill your water bottle. Bring your furry friend. All dogs must be on a leash. Definitely wear hiking boots. This time of year lots of Leaves are on the ground and can be slippery. Take your time and enjoy the scenery. read more
What a lovely way to enjoy nature on a Sunday w friends. This was a last minute idea the night prior, and of course we didn't regret it. Such breathtaking views at the top of the mountains. The weather was spectacular and we had a phenomenal time! read more
We had decided to take a drive to explore and found ourselves close to Hanging Rock State Park so, we decided to check it out. We drove to the visitors center and were surprised how big the parking lot was and how many people were there. When we arrived there was a sign at the visitors center saying they would be closed from 1pm to 2pm. We arrived just after 1pm. We strolled around a bit and grabbed a small park map to look at. As we were looking at it, one of the Park Rangers showed up and said he would be opening the visitors center. After he opened the doors a bunch of people walked inside and we did as well. We first checked out the interpretive area because many people were wanting to talk with the Park Ranger and ask questions. We waited our turn and eventually were able to ask a few questions. There are many places to see in this state park but most appear to be longer hikes. We wanted something brief because it was already mid-afternoon. We ended up choosing Tory's Den and Tory's Falls. Tory is a reference to one of the rival political parties in Britain. The Tory's being the British side and sympathizers from the Revolutionary war. They did not believe that America should break away from Britain. The cave and the rock outcroppings at Tory's Den are said to have been a hiding spot of British Loyalists during the Revolutionary War. There is a whole separate story there. To get there, you drive out of the main park entrance and go to another portion of the park. We arrived at the parking area after following the Rangers directions and took the short hike to Tory's Den and Tory's Falls. This was an easy, short hike and really cool to see. It is also very shaded which was nice on a warmer day. After this, we decided to start making our way back to Winston. This was a great experience and we will be back to explore other areas of the park. We are new to North Carolina but we were also pleasantly surprised to see that they did not charge for entrance into the park which seemed very generous. We aren't sure if this is standard for state parks in North Carolina or not? read more
9 months ago
Beautiful scenic hike up and down. I thoroughly enjoyed the views and I'm glad that I welcomed the challenge. I would come back again. The trail was clean and I didn't meet a stranger. The majority of the hikers I encountered were extremely nice and welcoming. It wasn't too busy on the trails but the parking lot was full by the time I left. The visitor center is not open. There is full access to clean restrooms. read more
A great state park with many different levels of trails! The Hanging Rock trail was quite strenuous; I'm glad I had my poles with me! The incline was quite steep, and the terrain was very rocky. The views at the top were great. I took a long loop back to the parking lot. There are two lots here, and they are semi-connected via a quick trail. I really enjoyed this park! read more
This place is absolutely spectacular. The parks in NC continue to simply dazzle me. I love that there are so many different trails here including ones appropriate for handicapped people. We did the hanging rock trail and the small trail to the rock garden and waterfall and both were just so majestic and rewarding with the views. The hanging rock trail is 1.3 miles each way and moderately challenging. The top has a ton of stairs and rocks to cross to reach the peak. We did this with out three year old daughter and she hung in there, this is about the hardest hike I'd try to do with her at this point though. The cascades trail was so easy and the view was amazing, you are able to climb right on side of the waterfall or just enjoy the view from the wooden observation deck. This is a must see for any visitor, so special. read more
Such an amazing experience. We walked Hidden Falls and Window Falls which was about a mile and a half. One of NC State Parks finest parks. They have so many different bike trails, walking trails, and local businesses they were present. If you're looking for a nice walk and adventure, check it out! read more
2 years ago
It was so hot when we went. We will definitely have to go back, so much to see. The park was super clean and well maintained. We got to go to upper and lower waterfalls. It was beautiful. read more
4 years ago
Mom and I decided to go leaf peeping this weekend. We didn't feel like driving all the way out to the Ridge so we decided on Hanging Rock. She had read an article about the scenic byway and wanted to check it out. Wow. Just.....Wow. The park put on a magnificent display of color! Yellows and reds with green interspersed. Just so gorgeous. Sadly the only animals we saw was our dog and a few groundhogs....but both were cute. The visitor center was really informative explaining not only about the park but the rock formations as well as it's history. We have FDR to thank for this park as the CCC cleared the roads and trails. The trails. They range from seriously simple (like walking thru a garden) to there is NO way unless I take a course at REI would I attempt! They are all clearly marked though and lead you to a special secret world. Make your way to the lake and have a picnic. Just remember: Take nothing. Leave nothing. read more
1 year ago
1 year ago
3 years ago
We love going to hanging rock! Especially with our pups, they love going. It's such a beautiful area even going up the wolf rock trail. I also love going to see the waterfalls because they are so beautiful! read more
6 years ago
Came here for a group hike and absolutely loved the 4.3 strenuous look, Moor's Wall Loop Trail. It was the perfect combination of elevation gain, varied walking textures and a view! Do note that I did not have AT&T service in the park. The staff were very helpful in finding a trail to hike, there are two parking lots (one near the visitor center and one near the lake). The visitor center has a mini museum/learning center for adults and kids. Maps available. Bathrooms inside and outside. There is year round camping, RVing, cabins, a lake with boat rental and really amazing hiking trails. I can't wait to be back in warmer weather. Saw very little trash on trail. People were following Leave No Trace! From the visitor center you can see two waterfalls within 3/4 of a mile. Good hiking shoes recommended. Hikes range from easy to strenuous. Rhododendrons everywhere so you can get greenery in the winter! read more
5 years ago
Went here last weekend with a friend and we really enjoyed ourselves! We drove from Raleigh, it was a soldi two hour drive but the views were worth it to me. Lots of dogs and kids along the trail, although I would say that it's definitely a more moderate hike. It's uphill most of the way and there are A LOT of rocks and we just did the hour up and back. It's not imposible by any means but I wouldn't call it "easy". There were some good places to stop along the way and the view at the top is gorgeous. Great day trip from Raleigh or if you live in the area. I will say the closer you get to the actual entrance, go ahead and look at your GPS directions because I lost signal for a while and we got a little turned around. It was great to see all types of different people along the trail, all ages and ethnicities especially because this area is definitely um...giving some conservative energy and maybe a little "Get Out" vibe at times. With that being said everyone was really nice and I got lots of compliments on my Afro . I don't live in NC so I'm not sure I'll be back but I'm really glad I went! read more
Hanging rock is an all time favorite hiking park in the triad. It involves plenty of scenery and a good well paced hike. The view is phenomenal when you reach the peak, and the fresh air is always welcoming. Bring water and food. As you can see i cooked at the peak as a reward to getting there. Bring proper shoes and be careful on the trail. read more
5 years ago
4 years ago
We like to tent camp in all seasons. We decided to try this state park close to where we live and enjoyed the weekend. The hikes are reasonable yet challenging. The view when you reach the top of the Hanging Rock trail is inspiring. The bath facilites are closed in winter months so you have to make do with latrines. We had the best conversations with a helpful ranger who gave us some background and recommendations for great hikes. He totally made our visit. His love for his job was evident and definitely transferred to us. We made plans to return and to enjoy more of the state parks conveniently near us. Nothing like an evening around the campfire. read more
Great camping spot for large groups and families. With spacious campsites and a wide variety of hiking that will take days to complete, Hanging Rock is a great park to leave your life behind and spend a long weekend exploring. Located near Colfax and Greensboro, NC Hanging Rock State Park seems to be one of the closest mountain hiking and overnight campgrounds to the coast. They recommend you make a reservation a couple weeks in advance for larger parties, and even more in advance if you'd like to get the family camp spots which have showers and are closer to the trails. The group camp spots are great too, though, just a little further down the road, with no showers, and you car stays in a lot rather than being parked right next to your camp. Check in is at 3 pm but you're welcome to come earlier, park at the visitors center and hike until your campsite is "ready." You can always try checking in earlier as well, especially if there's a rain storm coming and you need to set up before it attacks, which, you guessed it, is what happened to us. But rain or shine the camping was great, the fire still lit, burgers were cooked, and the hikes weren't too crazy. We hiked the stairway to heaven first, which is really called Moore's Knob Trail but should be called Death of Calves. There are a million stairs only going upwards and yes the view is pretty awesome but I wouldn't suggest starting your day with that hike, it is definitely more on the strenuous side. We also did Hidden Falls, Widow Falls, Hanging Rock, and a couple others I cannot remember. Hanging Rock was by far the best view and so gorgeous at sunrise being above the blanket of clouds floating over the forest. There is fresh water spouts for your water bottles and decently clean bathrooms at the group sites. The visitor's center, where you initially check in before seeing the camp host and get your car pass, has a vending machine with a few snacks, and there's a couple general stores down the road you can purchase last minute needs at. There are also a few mom and pop restaurants down the road if it's pouring down rain and you can't get your fire going. I would definitely recommend hiking/camping here if you live in Eastern NC and are looking for a woodsy, low key getaway. Campsites are about $20 and vastly spacious so bring all your friends, a cooler, some firewood and Smores stuff, and have a blast! The only reason I didn't go the full 5 stars is because there was very little water in the falls and while everything was very beautiful it wasn't anything I'd drop my jaw for. Especially given the incredible Blue Ridge Mountains hikes I've been on in the past. But again, give it a try, if anything, visit during the color changing seasons - they say the valley goes full rainbow and it's the most beautiful site to see. read more
6 years ago
Hanging Rock State Park is a recreation wonderland that we definitely must return to explore more fully. We ventured here on the tail end of a weekend trip to Blackburg, VA. I chose to stop here on our way back home to Atlanta, to which my wife would have rather I'd just drove straight home. Located within the park boundaries are multiple waterfalls, scenic cliff hikes, a cave, beautiful rivers and a mountain lake. But when Miss Thang is in a mood, I prefer not to push my luck! So I pleaded my case for a quick solo hike to the Lower Cascade waterfall while she and my son stayed behind in the car. It has been said that "since its creation as a 1930's Civilian Conservation Corps project, Hanging Rock State Park has offered the best of a traditional outdoor experience with 73-site campground, picnic grounds, stocked lake for swimming and canoe rentals and more than 20 miles of hiking trails that climb onto spectacular views and weave alongside clear streams and waterfalls." THAT VERY STATEMENT made this a must see for me, even if I could only choose one place in the park to visit. ~ THE EXPERIENCE From the parking area, the lower cascades is just under a 1/2 mile hike, which seemed easy enough for me to make a quick run of it. However, the very last part of the hike involves a steep decent using both wooden and stone steps. I do not have an official count, but lets just say the walk back from the base of the waterfall will be StairMaster torture. You'd have to be in amazing shape to do it without stopping to catch your breath and rest the burn in your legs. The waterfall has a decent sized shallow pool for adults and children to cool off in its waters. There are also multiple shallow areas to sit and several people actually brought folding lawn chairs and did just that! I counted at least a dozen families that brought enough provisions such as chairs, coolers and blankets to spend the entire day here. It is not a large area, but that doesn't seem to stop the crowds. ~ OTHER FEATURES 8,605+ acres Established in 1935 20+ miles of Hiking trails w/spectacular views 8.4 miles of Mountain Biking trails (permit required) WATERFALLS - Tory's Falls (100') + Tory's Den - Upper Cascades (25') - Lower Cascades (35') - Window Falls (27') - Hidden Falls (13') 73-site tent & trailer campground Stocked lake for fishing & swimming Boating & canoe rentals Lake Bathhouse Paddling on the Dan River Rock Climbing @ Moore's Wall & Cook's Wall (permit required) 10 Vacation Cabin Rentals Picnic areas Visitor Center w/free interpretive programs complement the education offerings of a park museum that explores the natural and cultural history of the Sauratown Mountains. NOTE: According to Wikipedia, two venomous snakes live within the park: Copperhead and timber rattlesnake. So be cautious and especially try not to venture off trail. ~ FINAL THOUGHTS It was a last minute decision to visit with very little time to explore, but next time it will be a planned trip! With so much to see and do here, I simply must return! However, if you only have one thing you can do and very little time to do it, I highly recommend choosing the Lower Cascades. Times being what they are, check for any COVID-19 closures before planning a visit. 2020 / 46 read more
6 years ago
We came here for a day trip during the COVID-19 pandemic. It's a perfect spot for socially distant adventuring! We started with Hidden Falls and Window Falls before going on to the Hanging Rock trail. That trail is 1.3 miles one way, and the way out is certainly an incline. If you're moving fast, you easily get your heart rate up! People were very considerate, moving to the side when someone else is passing. The Hanging Rock itself has fantastic views of the surrounding area. On our way back, we realized we could still hike for a bit longer, so we took the Wolf Rock trail around to get back to the parking area. This trail was not as heavily trafficked and was more narrow. It also had wonderful views. I recommend heading out here if you haven't been. We had a wonderful day! read more
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More info about Hanging Rock State Park
1005 Visitor Center Dr
Westfield, NC 27053
Directions
(336) 593-8480
Call Now
Visit Website
http://www.ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/haro/main.php
Hours
Indoor Amenities
Outdoor Amenities
