Crowders Mountain State Park
Experience challenging hikes and stunning panoramic views at Crowders Mountain State Park, a gem for outdoor enthusiasts.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Crowders Mountain State Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience challenging hikes and stunning panoramic views at Crowders Mountain State Park, a gem for outdoor enthusiasts.
"The views are beautiful, even on cloudy days."
Hydration is Key! :droplet:
Bring plenty of water, especially for strenuous trails. Electrolyte drinks are recommended.
Sturdy Footwear Essential :athletic_shoe:
Wear hiking boots or shoes with good grip. The trails can be rocky and steep.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
King's Pinnacle Summit
Pinnacle Trail
Conquer the strenuous climb for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding foothills and beyond.
Crowders Mountain Summit
Crowders Mountain Trail
A less strenuous option than Pinnacle, offering rewarding vistas and a sense of accomplishment.
Lake Trail
Sparrow Springs Road Access
An accessible, easy loop trail around a serene lake, perfect for a relaxed stroll or family outing.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Tackle the Trails Wisely
Beat the Crowds & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Hydration is Key! :droplet:
Bring plenty of water, especially for strenuous trails. Electrolyte drinks are recommended.
Sturdy Footwear Essential :athletic_shoe:
Wear hiking boots or shoes with good grip. The trails can be rocky and steep.
Check Trail Difficulty :hiking_boot:
Pinnacle Trail is strenuous; Crowders Mountain Trail is moderate. Choose based on your fitness level.
Arrive Early for Parking :car:
Parking lots fill up fast, especially on weekends. Aim for an early start.
Tips
from all over the internet
Hydration is Key! :droplet:
Bring plenty of water, especially for strenuous trails. Electrolyte drinks are recommended.
Sturdy Footwear Essential :athletic_shoe:
Wear hiking boots or shoes with good grip. The trails can be rocky and steep.
Check Trail Difficulty :hiking_boot:
Pinnacle Trail is strenuous; Crowders Mountain Trail is moderate. Choose based on your fitness level.
Arrive Early for Parking :car:
Parking lots fill up fast, especially on weekends. Aim for an early start.
Leashed Pups Welcome :dog:
Many trails are dog-friendly, but keep them on a leash.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning panoramic views from the summits, calling them breathtaking and worth the challenging hikes. The park is well-maintained and offers a welcoming atmosphere for all ages. However, some find the strenuous trails, particularly the Pinnacle Trail, underestimated in difficulty, leading to warnings about hydration and proper footwear.
"This place is popular and busy, at least the parking lots. The trails are challenging but even a beginner can hike as long as they take their time.
The views are beautiful, even on cloudy days. My biggest complaint would be having more benches to rest as they are very few and far between.
Like I said, trails are busy but not overcrowded, with plenty of room to pass others coming the opposite direction. We had a great time throughout our hike and the trails are kept clean, either by the park service or the hikers, but clean non the less."
Jason Seig
"Very beautiful once you reach the top...IF you reach the top! This is a VERY strenuous hike all the way to the top with not enough warning at the bottom Linwood Rd Access. PLEASE TAKE WARNING to be hydrated before walking, take water or sports drink with you. I would strongly suggest (especially for people over 40) take a walking stick, wear sturdy hiking shoes and do not walk alone. I went with my husband and I'm 47, in pretty great shape/health (5'8" and 134 lbs) and drank a Liquid IV before starting the hike, but was grossly underestimating the extent of the hike and like most people, thought it couldn't be too bad since it's less than a mile. There were several times I pondered turning around, but people coming down were saying it was worth the hike, so I pushed through, taking small breaks along the way. After we reached the steps, we thought WHEW, we are ALMOST THERE....NOT! The hundreds of steps kept going and winding around and finally when we could see the lookout sign, we knew we were getting close to the top, but my body couldn't take it anymore. I started feeling very bad and feeling a faint coming. I sat down on the rock to rest and fainted. Luckily, my husband caught me before my head hit the rock and there was two sweet ladies and a very prepared couple that were coming down just as I fainted. Since it was the first time I've fainted in front of my husband, he had no idea what to do. Those kind strangers helped out so much (my angels at the right time!) They helped lift and elevate my legs and once I was able to try to sit up, another lady held up my hair and fanned fresh air on the back of my neck. The couple gave me a water and dropped an electrolyte tablet in. After they knew I was okay, they continued on and I regained my strength in about 15 minutes and continued up the last of the 25-30 steps. It was very breathtaking and lots of people enjoying the view, but not too crowded. They also offer rock climbing and decent off the pinnacle rock. Was it worth it? Let's just say, my husband and I will not be going back, we are just too old for it. If I were in my 20's - 30's, for sure I would go back, especially to enjoy it in the Fall. I will stick with the other access (Sparrow Springs Rd) easy lake trail. I didn't take my phone and did not get photos of this area, but took photos of the park map at the other entrance a few months back along with photos of the Lake Trail."
Julie Butler
"This hiking spot is the best, we always love it. It's even good for the kids, with lots of trails, and even camping areas. The peak is amazing to watch, and there's so much scenery. We tried other places where the roads weren't visible, but we enjoyed this one the most."
Amol G.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Crowders Mountain State Park has multiple access points. The main entrances are off Linwood Road (for Pinnacle Trail) and Sparrow Springs Road (for the lake and other trails). Both are accessible by car. GPS coordinates are helpful for navigation.
Yes, there are parking lots at both the Linwood Road and Sparrow Springs Road access points. However, they can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak seasons. Arriving early is highly recommended.
Public transportation options to reach Crowders Mountain State Park are limited. It's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services.
Yes, Crowders Mountain State Park is connected to Kings Mountain State Park in South Carolina, offering extended hiking opportunities across state lines.
Park maps are available at the visitor centers and trailheads. Downloading an offline map on your phone is also a good idea, as cell service can be spotty in some areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Crowders Mountain State Park is free to enter. There are no admission fees required to access the park and its trails.
The park is generally open from dawn to dusk. Specific hours for facilities like visitor centers may vary, so it's best to check the official North Carolina State Parks website for the most up-to-date information.
No, tickets are not required for entry as the park is free. However, if you plan to camp, reservations are necessary.
There are no age restrictions for hiking, but the strenuous nature of some trails, like the Pinnacle Trail, means visitors should assess their own fitness levels.
Yes, dogs are welcome in Crowders Mountain State Park as long as they are kept on a leash.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The most popular trails are the Pinnacle Trail (4 miles roundtrip, strenuous) and the Crowders Mountain Trail (various options, moderate). The Lake Trail is an easier option. 
The Pinnacle Trail is considered strenuous due to its steep inclines and the final section with many stairs. While some find it moderate if they are used to incline trails, it's crucial to be prepared.
Benches are very few and far between on the trails, especially on the more challenging routes. Be prepared to take breaks on rocks or the ground.
You can expect beautiful panoramic views of the rolling foothills and surrounding landscape from the summits. Even on cloudy days, the views are often described as beautiful.
Yes, Crowders Mountain offers trails suitable for beginners, such as the Lake Trail. For more challenging hikes, beginners should take their time and be well-prepared.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants or cafes directly within Crowders Mountain State Park. Visitors are encouraged to pack their own food and drinks for picnics.
Nearby towns like Kings Mountain offer dining options. Big Red's Cafe in Kings Mountain is a recommended spot for post-hike meals.
Yes, picnic areas are available within the park, making it a great spot to enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.
While some facilities might have water access, it's best to carry sufficient water with you, especially for longer hikes. There's a spot at the base of Pinnacle Trail where you can get water.
Pack plenty of water, snacks, and a packed lunch if you plan to spend several hours. Electrolyte drinks are also a good idea for strenuous hikes.
📸 📸 Photography
The summits of King's Pinnacle and Crowders Mountain offer the most iconic photo opportunities with expansive views. The lake on the Lake Trail also provides scenic shots.
While you can take photos on the trails, be mindful of other hikers and the terrain. The final ascent to the Pinnacle summit can be challenging to navigate with a camera.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for landscape photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
Drone usage is typically restricted in state parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Check the official park regulations for specific rules.
The panoramic views from the top are a must-capture. Also, consider the unique rock formations and the serene lake for different photographic perspectives.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families with older, more active children, the Crowders Mountain Trail offers a moderate challenge with rewarding views. The Pinnacle Trail is generally considered too strenuous for young children due to its steepness and the final ascent with many stairs. Always pack plenty of snacks and water, and be prepared for the possibility of crowds, especially on weekends.
💪 Fitness Enthusiasts & Serious Hikers
For those looking for a longer day, consider combining trails or exploring the connection to Kings Mountain State Park in South Carolina. The park also offers opportunities for rock climbing on the Pinnacle Rock, adding another dimension for adventure seekers.
🐶 Pet Owners
Remember to bring extra water for your dog, especially on warmer days or longer hikes. Be mindful of the trail conditions, as some sections can be rocky and steep, which might be challenging for some pets. Always clean up after your pet to help keep the park pristine for everyone.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Conquering the Pinnacle Trail
Despite its difficulty, the reward at the top is significant. The panoramic views from the King's Pinnacle summit are described as breathtaking and well worth the effort. Many hikers find encouragement from others on the trail. It's important to listen to your body, take breaks as needed, and be aware of your limits. The park service does offer some assistance and water at the base of the trail, but self-sufficiency is key.
For those who might find the Pinnacle Trail too daunting, the park offers alternative routes. The Crowders Mountain Trail provides a less strenuous option, and the Lake Trail accessible from the Sparrow Springs Road entrance is an easy, family-friendly loop. These alternatives still offer beautiful scenery and a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the park.
Planning Your Visit: Timing and Crowds
Social media content often highlights the beauty of the park, which contributes to its popularity. TikTok and Instagram reels showcase stunning views, encouraging more people to visit. While this is great for sharing the park's appeal, it also means you should be prepared for company on the trails. If you prefer a more solitary experience, consider visiting during off-peak hours or on less popular days.
The best time to visit for optimal weather and fewer people is generally during the spring and fall. These seasons offer cooler temperatures ideal for hiking and beautiful natural scenery. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter can bring colder conditions, though it also offers the fewest crowds.
Accessibility and Family-Friendly Options
Even on the more strenuous trails, the park community is often supportive. Many reviewers mention encountering helpful fellow hikers who offer encouragement. For families, it's important to assess the capabilities of younger children before attempting more difficult trails. The park also has camping areas, which can be a great way for families to extend their visit and experience the park more fully.
At the base of the Pinnacle Trail, there's a spot where visitors can get assistance, water, and check out a small gift shop, adding a layer of convenience for those tackling the hike.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit