Hanging Rock State Park

Hanging Rock State Park sits about 30 miles north of Winston Salem in Stokes County. It is part of the Sauratown Mountains, an isolated mountain range that rises up from the rolling Piedmont landscape. The park covers 3,703 acres and it has some of the most dramatic scenery in this part of the state. Quartzite cliffs, waterfalls, a lake for swimming, and serious rock climbing all exist in one place. Admission is free.

The quartzite rock formations here are roughly 500 million years old. The Sauratown Mountains are sometimes called "the mountains away from the mountains" because they stand alone, separated from the Blue Ridge by about 25 miles of lowland. That isolation makes this park feel like something you would expect to find much further west. It was established as a state park in 1936 and remains one of the most popular parks in the NC system.

Hanging Rock Trail

The Hanging Rock Trail is the park's signature hike. It is 1.8 miles one way, 3.6 miles round trip, and rated moderate. The summit sits at 2,159 feet with 639 feet of elevation gain from the trailhead. At the top you get panoramic views across the Piedmont and into the Dan River valley. On clear days you can see all the way to Pilot Mountain to the southwest.

The trail is well maintained and easy to follow. It starts with a gentle climb through hardwood forest before getting steeper near the top. The final stretch involves some rocky sections and short scrambles. Plan about two hours for the round trip, longer if you want to spend time at the summit taking in the views.

One thing to know: Big Pinnacle itself has been closed to visitors since the late 1970s. The metal staircase that once led to the top was removed at that time. You can still get very close and the views from the area around it are outstanding, but you cannot climb the pinnacle itself.

Moore's Wall Loop

Moore's Wall Loop is 4.6 miles and rated strenuous. It takes you to the highest point in the Sauratown Mountains at 2,497 feet. At the top there is an observation tower with 360 degree views. This is the best viewpoint in the entire park and one of the best in the Piedmont region of North Carolina.

The trail is best done in a clockwise direction. Going clockwise means you tackle the steeper sections on the way up rather than coming down them, which is easier on your knees and safer on the rocky terrain. Expect the loop to take three to four hours depending on your pace and how long you spend at the tower.

The Waterfalls

Lower Cascades Falls

Lower Cascades Falls is the most popular waterfall in the park. The hike is only 0.8 miles round trip and rated easy, making it a great option for families or anyone who wants a short walk. The waterfall drops 35 feet into a natural pool at the base. That pool is one of the best natural swimming holes in the Piedmont. The water is cool and deep enough to swim in during the warmer months.

Hidden Falls

Hidden Falls is about 0.4 miles from the visitor center. It is a smaller waterfall at roughly 10 feet tall. The trail is short and easy. This one is less visited than Lower Cascades, so you may have it to yourself on weekdays.

Window Falls

Window Falls is about 0.6 miles from the visitor center and drops roughly 25 feet. What makes this waterfall unique is the natural rock window that frames the falls. The rock opening creates a dramatic view of the water falling through it. This is one of the more photographed spots in the park.

Swimming

The park has a man made lake that is open for swimming from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Admission is $6 for adults and $4 for children. The lake area has a bathhouse, restrooms, and a small beach. It is a great option for families, especially if you want a full day at the park combining a hike in the morning with swimming in the afternoon.

If you prefer natural swimming, the pool at the base of Lower Cascades Falls is the spot. There is no fee to swim there and it is open whenever the park is open. The water is cold even in summer, which feels great after a hike.

Rock Climbing

Moore's Wall is one of the best rock climbing destinations in the Southeast. The cliffs reach up to 400 feet in height. There are over 500 bouldering problems across the park and trad climbing routes ranging from 100 to 200+ feet. The rock is quartzite, which provides excellent friction and interesting features.

A permit is required for all climbing in the park. You can get a permit at the park office or online through the NC State Parks system. The climbing community here is active and welcoming, but this is serious climbing on real rock. Experience and proper gear are essential.

Camping

Hanging Rock has 49 campsites and 10 cabins. The campground has modern restrooms with hot showers, which is a nice upgrade from more rustic parks. The camping season runs from March 15 through November 30. Reservations can be made up to six months in advance and it is smart to book early, especially for weekends in October when the fall color peaks.

The cabins are simple but comfortable and make a great option if you want to spend a full weekend exploring the park without setting up a tent.

Best Time to Visit

Late October is the top pick. The fall color in the Sauratown Mountains is spectacular and the views from the cliffs are at their best when the leaves are turning. The park gets busy during peak fall weekends, so arrive early in the morning.

Spring is excellent for wildflowers and for waterfall flow. The waterfalls run strongest from late winter through spring after rain. If you want the best waterfall experience, visit between March and May.

Winter and early spring are great for open vistas. Once the leaves drop, the views from the trails expand dramatically. You can see much further through the bare trees and the rock formations stand out more against the winter sky. The park is also much less crowded during the cooler months.

Frequently Asked Questions