Photo Credit: Blake Patterson / Flickr
Charlotte, North Carolina has long been known for offering an epic outdoor lifestyle to accompany its posh urban metro. If you are the type that likes to walk the line between city life and wild Appalachia, then you will love exploring the mountains near Charlotte NC on your next vacation. Whether you’re an experienced mountaineer, a mere hobby hiker looking to conquer a new summit, or simply taking the kids out for some romping around in the woods, you’ll be delighted with the variety of trails and sights to explore among the mountains near Charlotte NC.
Morrow Mountain State Park
These jagged hills stand in contrast to the easy rolling countryside of the Piedmont region, bearing witness to what was once a rugged mountain range. Morrow Mountain offers a surprising variety of activities from hiking or riding along their miles of trails, to taking a dip or heading out fishing in Lake Tillery or the Pee Dee River. This mountain haven is surprisingly close to Charlotte, making it the perfect day trip on your next stay in the area.
Crowders Mountain State Park
Home to the epic Kings Pinnacle peak measuring in at 1,705 feet, Crowders Mountain is the perfect place for day hikers among the mountains near Charlotte NC. Just 25 miles from the city, all of its trails offer spectacular panoramas of the Piedmont, and a variety of routes to the top of Crowders Mountain. These Appalachian foothills are covered in the high elevation vegetation you would expect to see in the western North Carolina mountains, like Mountain Laurel and Highbush Blueberry. This is the perfect place to find some solitude from the busy city while you take in a breathtaking view of the wonderful place you’re visiting!
South Mountains
Yet another Appalachian foothills peak, the South Mountains are another great hiking destination in the mountains near Charlotte NC. With peaks ranging from 1100 to 3000 feet in elevation, you can be sure to find a variety of trails for every ability level. The High Shoals Falls Loop and the Chestnut Knob Overlook are both popular routes where hikers meander alongside rivers, stopping by the occasional waterfall or swimming hole. Ultimately, hikers are treated to breathtaking views of the Charlotte skyline, which can always be seen on a clear day on of the South Mountain peaks. The South Mountains offer perhaps the most challenging hikes in the area and are surrounded by nearly 17,000 acres of preserved and well maintained land for wilderness lovers.
Whether you would consider yourself the outdoorsy type or not, exploring the mountains near Charlotte NC is worthwhile when you are visiting the area. If a mountain hike is not what you’re looking for, head to a mountainous state park and take a drive through its roads with the windows rolled down to appreciate the fresh air and stunning views.
For more ideas of things to do in the area, both in nature and otherwise, check out this free vacation guide full of great suggestions for every interest!
