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South Mountains State Park is located in Burke County, 20.5 miles south of Morganton. From I-40, turn south on NC 18, travel 11.1 miles and make a right turn onto SR 1913 (Sugarloaf Road). Take SR 1913 to Old NC 18 4.3 miles and turn left. Travel 2.7 miles and make a right turn onto SR 1901 (Ward's Gap Road). The park is 1.4 miles off SR 1901 on SR 1904 (South Mountains Park Avenue).
Lying at the edge of the North Carolina piedmont, South Mountains are a wonderful place to hike and experience the mountains without really driving all the way to Blue ridge mountains. The park has really pretty waterfalls and great trails that also offer significant elevation gains for a good workout. When the water levels are low, you can go off trail and scramble up boulders near the Big bear waterfall for added adventure.
A great hike within reasonable distance that offers day hikes and overnight backpacking. The camp sites are well maintained and there are multiple locations (streams) to refill your water (with a purifier) and lockers to securely store your food.
This is a great place to camp, hike, and enjoy nature. The hiking trails are well marked and distinct! The 2.7 mile hike to High Shoals Waterfall is worth the step incline. Hikers beware: this is a strenuous hike. You will need proper shoes for the terrain! There are heated bathrooms at the enterance and the vistors center is very informative! There is also places to picnic, benches to take breaks and nature to enjoy!!!
I had the best time! My family enjoyed this trail, and my children did pretty well all the way to the waterfall, I really recommend this beautiful trail. Only one thing: people please be respectful of nature and the hikers and do not bring your Bluetooth speaker on full blast.
This is my absolute favorite hiking spot. Beautiful waterfalls, moderate hiking, and a fun creek for warmer weather. The picnic area is very shady and the tree cover in summer makes the hike much cooler. There is no cell service so download maps of the park and the way out well before you get here. No food shops/restaurants in the vicinity so you will need to come prepared. There are basic charcoal grills in the picnic area.
