Don't subscribe As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. the lower trails, not as steep, would be easier to walk. Since its located in Western North Carolina, it experiences the extremes of all the seasons, including the sweltering heat of summer, the iridescence of fall, the snowy wonderland of winter, and the blooming beauty of spring. WHAT ARE THE DRAWBACKS OF CROWDERS MOUNTAIN STATE PARK? This past weekends trip to Crowders Mountain was an important milestone in our adventures as a family of four Baby Z has FINALLY gotten big enough to transition into the Kelty Kid Carrier we used for Big C (our older model is reviewedhere). While her brother started using it just shy of 6 months,my tiny Baby Z hasnt been able to fit into it until now, a few days away from 7 months. A lock icon or https:// means youve safely connected to the official website. Is it ok for a couple of 40-something so so in shape people? Crowders Trail ends at the Backside Trail which you can follow to the summit of Crowders Mountain or continue on to the parking area. We integrate with the National Weather Service to provide valuable fire advisories to Hosts and Hipcampers. Crowders Mountain is near the North Carolina - South Carolina border in Gastonia, just west of Charlotte, NC. CROWDERS MOUNTAIN STATE PARK 522 Park Office Lane Kings Mountain, North Carolina 28086 Phone: 704-853-5375 Reservations: 877-722-6762 Email: Raptors soar gracefully in the wind; vegetation reaches to the sky; sheer vertical cliffs drop 150 feet. In this article, we start off by discussing some of these policies before discussing many other trail questions in depth. Theres always something happening at Crowders Mountain State Park! As I started up the trail, I glanced in the little mirror thats attached to the strap, and caught Baby Zs eye. This time of year, the creepy-crawlies are not nearly as abundant, and we all ventured inside, letting Big C lead the way with our inflatable Luci Light. Fern Trail and Lake Trail Both easy .8 mile loop trails. We hiked the 4 mile round trip up to the overlook with a toddler in a backpack carrier and a 4 year old that hikes in her own. Geologically speaking, Crowders Mountain is actually considered a. Its believed that this older mountain was gradually withered down by the elements, forming the modern Crowders Mountain. Parking: There are 500 parking spaces located throughout the state park. Is there somewhere i can charge my phone while staying at the campsite. Located in Gaston County,North Carolina,U.S. Charlotte hikers will soon have a new overnight option when they head to Crowders Mountain State Park. The mature climax forest of mostly hardwood trees is home to abundant wildlife, but as the park tends to be very busy most animals keep their distance. This dirty old pack had been through a lot. All participants must register for a permit at the park office.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,50],'taketothetrail_com-leader-1','ezslot_13',177,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-taketothetrail_com-leader-1-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,50],'taketothetrail_com-leader-1','ezslot_14',177,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-taketothetrail_com-leader-1-0_1');.leader-1-multi-177{border:none!important;display:block!important;float:none!important;line-height:0;margin-bottom:7px!important;margin-left:auto!important;margin-right:auto!important;margin-top:7px!important;max-width:100%!important;min-height:50px;padding:0;text-align:center!important}. It is geologically classified as kyanite-quartzite monadnocks, and only the strength of said quartzite has allowed these pinnacles to withstand the wind, water, and other forces that have eroded less resistant peaks. Crowders Mountain is not the only state park in North Carolina to receive improvement funding. This is the only place in the world where rockhounders can find hiddenite, which is the fourth rarest gemstone in the world. No outside firewood is permitted. Specifically, Crowders Mountain is 1625 feet above sea level, rising about 800 feet abruptly from the surrounding terrain. In the summer its a good place to wait out rainstormsso long as you dont mind sharing it with wall-to-wall cave crickets. Privacy Policy. Ive seen rangers on the trail but they arent beri invasive. Crowders Mountain Village, a vacation destination two miles from the parks Sparrow Springs entrance, will feature 35 brick-and-wood rental cottages ranging in size from 350-800 square feet. Reservations need to be made at least one day in advance, so dont expect to show up and snag a site. This peculiar monadnock is thought to have originated hundreds of millions of years ago, though its exact evolution is still shrouded in mystery.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,50],'taketothetrail_com-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_1',184,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-taketothetrail_com-large-mobile-banner-2-0'); Many visitors love to reflect on how nature changes over time when visiting this park. Visit the Crowders Mountain State Park WEBSITE for information concerning additional trails, activities and rules. Crowder's Mountain Mine (Caledonia Gold and Copper Mine), Kings Mountain District, Gaston Co., North Carolina, USA This page is currently not sponsored. Trail Uses Location Kings Mountain (NC) Length 2.5 miles, One Way Difficulty Moderate Surface Gravel/Crushed stone, Natural surface, Boardwalk, Pavement Motorized Vehicles Not Permitted Fees No Pets Permitted on leash Parking Spaces 30 Restrooms Yes Hours I hadnt been on the first two routes in a really long time, and Id forgotten how much fun they are. The paths that are being studied would link downtown Gastonia to Crowders Mountain, which is between Kings Mountain and Gastonia. The peak is believed to be the remnant of a much higher mountain which formed some 400 - 500 million years ago and was . Crowders Mountain is one of two main peaks within Crowders Mountain State Park, the other peak being The Pinnacle. There are many places that people can rockhound in the Charlotte NC area. Crowders Mountain State Park - The Pinnacle Trail In partnership with Kings Mountain, NC Length: 4.00 mi. Home to valleys, foothills, sheer cliffs, and a wooded lake, Crowders Mountain State Park is the ideal setting for everything from hiking and rock climbing to bird-watching, paddling, fishing, and swimming. Double check your datescancellations fees apply. Crowders Mountain Pinnacle Trail Begins to the left of the Visitors Center along the same path as the Crowders Trail 2 mile strenuous hike to the top of Kings Pinnacle. Crowders Mountain abruptly rises nearly 800 feet (240m) above the surrounding terrain, and has an elevation of 1,625 feet (495 m) above sea level. Being in the park can thus offer a portal on history, and this is only enhanced by the various geological features of Crowders Mountain. I have been visiting Crowders for over 20 years. Accessibility guidelines and restrictions change. Be aware that this is a popular area and you will likely be sharing the crag with a number of other climbers. Sandwich shop etc? and our It's basically a walk in the woods but sometimes that's what you need! Once marking the boundary between the hunting grounds of the Cherokee and the Catawba nations, the twin peaks of Crowders Mountain and Kings Pinnacle rise sharply above the North Carolina Piedmont. Its pretty active year round with hikers. The rugged terrain not only makes for challenging hikes, but the abundant wildflowers along the trails such as mountain laurel and rhododendron will compete with the scenic view for your attention. Crowders Mountain State Park. State Government websites value user privacy. 4/12/2022 Cristina B. We think Crowders Mountain State Park is worth the visit not only due to its two distinct peaks but also due to various trails, wildlife, and a lake.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'taketothetrail_com-narrow-sky-1','ezslot_16',183,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-taketothetrail_com-narrow-sky-1-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'taketothetrail_com-narrow-sky-1','ezslot_17',183,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-taketothetrail_com-narrow-sky-1-0_1');.narrow-sky-1-multi-183{border:none!important;display:block!important;float:none!important;line-height:0;margin-bottom:7px!important;margin-left:auto!important;margin-right:auto!important;margin-top:7px!important;max-width:100%!important;min-height:250px;padding:0;text-align:center!important}. Many visitors to Crowders Mountain State Park want to know what time the area opens and closes, as this information allows them to plan their visit more accordingly. The Fern Trail is a looping nature trail around the picnic areas. In November, the park closes at 7pm. The trails extend from one side of the park to another, over 10 miles, with two peaks: Pinnacle and Crow. Conditions Excellent Value Excellent Friendliness Excellent Pace Good Amenities Excellent Difficulty Somewhat Challenging Helpful (0) Not Helpful (0) realasudxgift Played On 08/01/2015 Reviews 150 Handicap 20-24 Skill Intermediate How to Stay Engaged As A Runner Despite Cancelled Races. "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.". 99% of travelers recommend this experience. There is an underground gold mine that is open for self-guided tours, as well as opportunities for visitors to pan their own gold and other minerals. It is near Kings Mountain, North Carolina and on the outskirts of Gastonia, North Carolina, it includes the peaks of Crowder's Mountain and The Pinnacle. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. This gem-mining experience even offers gemstone cutting, so visitors can turn their finds into jewelry. Crowders Mountain is one of the two main mountain peaks that make up Crowders Mountain State Park, the other being The Pinnacle.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'taketothetrail_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_3',172,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-taketothetrail_com-medrectangle-3-0'); Since Crowders Mountain State Park is a North Carolina State Park, there are some policies that govern its usage. Nowadays, between 300,o00 and 400,000 people visit every . Hey there! Beautiful wooded scenery offering shade along the way and a beautiful view at the top. Rocktop Trail Begins at the top of Crowders Mountain 1.5 mile strenuous hike. The weekends and summer months are also most crowded. Nonetheless, at this point, one would want to get away from the looks theyd get from the tattered areas of the bag, & would want a new backpack. Successful, yes. 2023 Hipcamp, Inc. All rights reserved. He was mega-excited to climb all the way up to Daddy, who was waiting for him at the anchors, and later he went on and on about how he got to see a view! Definitely a positive experience on the rock for him, which is fantastic in my book! Pets must not be left unattended, and campers cannot confine pets to enclosed vehicles or tents during the park's quiet hours. Two additional trails, Fern Trail and Lake Trail, are accessible from the picnic area and lake parking lots. Rated 3.9 / 5. Butcher was new for me, which doesnt happen that often anymore at Crowders! Crowders Mountain State Park is a 5,126-acre North Carolina state park in Gaston County. Friends Of Crowders Mountain. My parents and I traveled to Kings Mountain for an overnight trip in July. The Tower Trail will take you to the base of the radio towers on Crowders Mountain. This park is known best for The Pinnacle and Crowders Mountain. 90% of travelers recommend this experience. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Geologically speaking, Crowders Mountain State Park is much more like the foothills region of the Appalachian Mountains than the rolling hills of the Piedmont. Significant value can be derived from visiting the park any time of year, though visitors should make sure they are properly prepared in the winter. Spills into the Pinnacle Trail about half way to the summit and offers access to the Fern Trail as well. One of the main drawbacks of Crowders Mountain State Park is that swimming is not permitted in the man-made lake.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,100],'taketothetrail_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_0',178,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-taketothetrail_com-large-mobile-banner-1-0'); Many people like to go on a long hike and then cool off afterwards through a swim. Both feature 100-150-foot rock cliffs that are perfect for daring climbers. So many possibilities here. These purposes are exclusively nonprofit, charitable, educational, and environmental. Crowders Mountainis one of two main peaks withinCrowders Mountain State Park, the other peak beingThe Pinnacle. From March through April, the park closes at 8pm. This beautiful State Park is not far from the casino, nor from the Comfort Inn where we stayed. Real-time Red Flag Warnings and Fire Weather Watch Warnings help keep our community safe. The hike is a little over 3 miles round trip, and it will really give you a run for the money toward the end. Which meant that our strategy of late has simply been taking turns who wears her for the duration of each nap. GASTONIA, N.C. This week, the Gastonia City Council unanimously voted to rezone an area of Crowders Mountain to pave the way for a new development to . Next time Im out there I think it will go down fairly easily. I did see some families that we heading to the campsite and yesyou have to reserve anything area. About two hours northwest of Charlotte, Crabtree Emerald Mine has been used as an emerald provider for Tiffany Jewelers in New York City. Rain dates are as follows: December 18, January 15, February 12, and March 5. No restrooms past the trailhead. Because of its history, this is a great place for the most passionate rockhounders to visit. Quarterly Meetings with Park Updates and Programs on a wide varietyof Environmental, Recreational, and Natural History topics Hands-On Trail Work Co-Host park events such as Fur, Fangs, and Feathers Fall Festival, We respect your privacy and will never share your information, Copyright 2019. The park office is open daily from 8am to 5pm, allowing visitors to ask questions to a local official and register for any necessary permits or rentals. You may be familiar with the term backpacking across Europe as a favorite pastime for graduating college students who want to taste of Freedom before they settle into their new careers. Crowders Mountain State Park 4.5 214 #1 of 13 things to do in Kings Mountain State Parks Visit website Call Email Write a review What people are saying " Great Pre-lunch Workout " Dec 2021 Hike was a 4 mile roundtrip moderate to strenuous as you reached the top. Crowders Mountain State Park is a 5,217-acre (21.11 km 2) [1] North Carolina state park in Gaston County, North Carolina in the United States. The mountain rises to 1,625 feet (495 m) above sea level. Backside Trail -Begins near the parking lot .8 mile one way strenuous hike to the top of Crowders Mountain. Many North Carolina State Parks are closed on certain holidays or during certain seasons. If you need specific information about parks that you are unable to find online, please email us at state.parks@ncparks.gov for assistance. This could mean missed photography opportunities as well as having to explore the area during more crowded times. Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information. 400,000 people visit every by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness atmosphere. Mountain and Gastonia half way to the Fern Trail and Lake parking.... 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