Hanging Rock State Park

The summit of Hanging Rock

If you are looking for something different to do this weekend and don't want to spend a lot of money, consider taking a drive out to Hanging Rock State Park located in the picturesque town of Danbury in Stokes County, North Carolina.  Located less than an hour north of Winston-Salem, Hanging Rock is easily accessible from the Piedmont Triad region of north carolina, 2 hours north of Charlotte and about 2.5 hours northwest of Raleigh and the Research Triangle.

The Upper Cascades at Hanging Rock

Hanging Rock has a lot to offer for everyone from families with small children looking to spend some quality time together to the outdoor adventurist in search of a good workout.  There are a range of hiking trails available from the very short and very easy, to long difficult trails meant for more experienced hikers.  Most recommended is Hanging Rock trail, which winds its way 1.2 miles one way to the top of the escarpment that gives the park its name.  Listed as a moderate trail, this hike gives great rewards to those who make it to the top and requires no special climbing equipment other than a good pair of walking shoes.  Climbing 2,579 feet above sea level yields great views of downtown Winston-Salem to the southeast and even as far as Greensboro on a clear day.  To the west the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains are majestically laid out before you.  If you are worried about the 2,500 foot climb, the trailhead actually starts at about 800 feet, cutting down the workload to about 1,700 feet.  If shorter hikes are more your style, the Upper and Lower Cascades trails offer breathtaking views of several waterfalls, which can even be accessed for a quick dip in the refreshingly cool waters.

Visitors Center at Hanging Rock State Park

In addition to hiking, Hanging Rock State Park also has a decent sized lake for boating and swimming as well as cabins and a camp ground (permit required).  Picnic shelters are scattered throughout the park for your enjoyment.  As far as facilities go, Hanging Rock State Park is very well maintained with its centerpiece being the main visitors center in the middle of the park.  Here you will find helpful park staff with all the information you need to have a great time in the park as well as water fountains and spotless restrooms, which can sometimes be a rarity at state parks.
On your way to or from the park, be sure to check out the quaint and charming town of Danbury.  The Danbury General Store offers all of your equipment needs, a grocery store and restaurant as well as a launching place for a river tubing adventure on the Dan River.  More pictures of my adventure at Hanging Rock State Park can be found on my website at
www.ryanellisphotography.com/North-Carolina/HangingRock


For more information on Hanging Rock State Park please visit...
http://www.ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/haro/main.php


...and for the Danbury General Store
www.danburygeneralstore.com