If you love hiking as much as we do, Stone Mountain State Park in North Carolina should definitely be on your bucket list. With a wide variety of trails suitable for every level this state park has it all. The park has an abundance of wildlife, a handful of waterfalls and stunning views. A well preserved and maintained Homestead sitting at the bottom of the massive rock formation is also a top attraction.
If you want to read more about the main trails in the park check out our other article on the website that gives details on that however today we would like to share a less popular trail in the park that we have recently discovered and thoroughly enjoyed exploring.
Wolf Rock Trail begins at the lower parking lot. Ample parking is available right by the bathroom facilities and large map is located there that has a list of trails and descriptions. Follow the main trail that splits several times (see pictures bellow) before reaching the sign pointing right where the Wolf Rock Trail begins.
The Wolf Rock trail is about 2.5 miles and a moderate hike with slight inclines but certainly not strenuous. The first part after turning right by the sign is the steepest with straight incline for about .2 miles before it switches to gradual incline for about .5 miles and than flattens up. It’s an absolutely stunning hike between the large trees especially in the fall and spring months. Watch out for roots and rocks and keep your eyes open for deer that often graze by the side of the path. The trail is very well marked, greatly maintained and super easy to follow.
A short while after passing by the stone wall that sits by the side of the trail you’ll come about another sign pointing right. If you choose to follow it you’ll find yourself before magnificent views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. That is the perfect spot for a short break and picnic if you choose to pack and bring one. For all the times we have hiked this trail we have never encountered another hiker and have had this spot all to ourselves.
Heading back to the trail follow the path that passes by the abandoned building sitting still in the woods hugged between the trees. If you are looking to extend your hike take the Blackjack trail that would add 4.4 miles to your trip. If not take a left and follow the Cedar Rock trail that brings you to a different point view of the Stone Mountain. If you are lucky you’ll be able to see people rock climbing the massive rock. Sit there for a moment and try to spot the tiny figures in the distance.
Once you pass by here follow the trail that goes essentially straight downhill before connecting to the main trail. If you are just doing the Wolf Rock trail turn left at the bottom and continue on the trail pass the homestead and back to the parking lot. If you choose to extend the distance turn right and head over to the falls or even to the whole loop. Again you can read more about these trails in our other Stone Mountain article that covers these trails in greater details.
Whichever way or trail you choose to do we wish you happy trails and hope you enjoy this special spot as much as we have and make lasting memories with family and friends! #HappyTrails