Crowders Mountain State Park
Crowders Mountain State Park is the 26th park in our 2025 North Carolina State Park Challenge. The main attractions of the park are the two mountain peaks (The Pinnacle and Crowders Mountain) that give gorgeous overlook views. There are three access points to this park: Sparrow Spring Access (where the Visitor Center is located), Linwood Road Access, and Boulders Access.
It was a warm day and we knew we only had time for one of the two peaks before it got too hot- so we decided to take the Pinnacle Trail out to the viewpoint instead of the namesake trail hoping to have less traffic. The cloud coverage held the off the heat until we got to the peak. It was a 2 miles trail that started out gradual and became steep the last half mile with a small section of stairs right at the end. Once you get to the top there is a slight rock scramble to the view point- someone has drawn (in chalk) a path off to the left if you have a dog. Just follow the white arrows around the rocks and you’ll make it up top without too much trouble! If you’re going up to Crowders Mountain there are multiple options to choose from that are either moderate or strenuous. Make sure you bring enough water for yourself and your dog! Both of these trails are fairly exposed and on a warm summer day you’ll go through water quickly! There are multiple signs before heading onto the trail reminding you about water- there is also a spigot right at the trail head for Pinnacles/Crowders Mountain to fill up!
There are multiple easy trails down by the Visitor Center including The Lake Trail. It’s a flat 0.8 miles that takes you around the fishing lake and pier. It honestly seems like the perfect spot for a fall hike or picnic- there are tables along the shore but also a flat area to lay out a blanket!
There are campsites at the park, but they are backpack-in primitive tent sites that are about 1 miles from the Visitor Center parking area. You’ll have to register at the Visitor Center and get an overnight pass for your car. Stop in and grab your passport stamp at the same time. Enjoy!
Park Details:
ADDRESS: 522 Park Office Lane, Kings Mountain NC 28086
HOURS: November-February: 8am-6pm
March-April & October: 8am-8pm
May-September: 8am-9pm
**Park is Closed on Christmas Day**
VISITOR CENTER: Open Daily 9am-5pm
PASSPORT STAMP: Located at the Visitor Center
ENTRANCE FEE: No Entrance Fee
TRAILS: 30 miles of hiking trails
ACTIVITIES: Hiking, Paddling, Fishing, Rock Climbing, & Bouldering
DOG RULES: Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6ft and are not allowed in park buildings. Please pick up after your pet!
Check out our videos about this Park on instagram @axel.theadventurepup
