Drive the Crowders Mountain Drive

Crowders Mountain State Park is the closest green space to downtown Charlotte and it will not disappoint. There are two peaks worth checking out: The Pinnacle and Crowders Mountain. Crowders Mountain stands at 1,600' offering incredible views of the surrounding area and on a clear day you can see downtown Charlotte. Start at the visitors center and head out on the Crowders Trail and then take t...

This 118 mile drive in South Carolina can be driven during different seasons (storms permitting). Along this route, aside from stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, you'll have the opportunity to take in historic locations, towns, and monuments. Make sure to bring your camera! Here is a link to a helpful map of the route.

The journey begins at the Cicero Branch Parking Area along South Mountain Road, following Jacob Fork River Trail. The trail runs along the Fork before ascending Chestnut Knob. After completing the trail, you will find yourself on the highest peak of the South Mountain chain, where there are breathtaking views. The trail starts out with an easy walk along the river, but becomes slightly more ch...

High Shoals Waterfall and H.Q. Loop Trail is a loop trail that takes you by a waterfall located near Connelly Springs, North Carolina.

From the Jacob Fork parking area in South Mountains State Park, it is a short 1 mile walk over the Jacob River to the High Shoals Waterfall (80'). If you choose to continue past the observation deck, High Shoals Falls Trail (blue circle) climbs up above the waterfall, crossing the river. Keep right at the intersection to loop back to the parking lot.

This 6.2-mile total trip will take you through the highlights of South Mountains State Park with an overnight stay in one of the drier campsites.  OPTIONAL: You can get a warm-up in by starting with a 2.5-mile loop to High Shoal Falls that you can do without packs before picking up with a 3-mile each way out and back.  Begin by parking at the large parking area near the Hemlock Nature Center....