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CROWDERS MOUNTAIN STATE PARK

Climb Crowders Mountain on a clear day and witness breathtaking views with the city of Charlotte visible off in the distance.

Mother Nature blessed Gaston County with a pop-up mountain range in the heart of the Carolina Piedmont. This small range is anchored by Crowders Mountain and Kings Pinnacle, the centerpieces of Crowders Mountain State Park. Crowders is an adventure lover’s dream — 5,210 undisturbed acres just 15 minutes from downtown Gastonia and easily accessible by Interstate 85.




The park, one of the most popular in the North Carolina State Parks system, was founded in the early 1970s thanks to an effort by Gaston Conservation Society to preserve this unique mountain range from the threat of a large-scale mining operation. More land was acquired in 1988, and in 2000, an additional 2,000 acres were added to connect Crowders Mountain State Park with Kings Mountain National Military Park just across the state line in South Carolina.

Crowders Mountain State Park

Activities

Within the park’s confines are adventures big and small. Hike the short but steep trail to the summit of Crowders Mountain to view Charlotte’s modern skyline in the distance, or stretch it out with the 12-mile (round trip) Ridgeline Trail that connects Crowders Mountain to Kings Pinnacle. Softer adventure can be had on several other trails, or enjoy paddling and fishing in the park’s secluded seven-acre lake.




Park staff hosts events and volunteer workshops throughout the year, and primitive camping is available in two areas. A family camping area has 10 sites, and a group camping area (ADA accessible) has 11 sites. Each area offers grills, picnic tables, tent pads, drinking water and vault toilets.
 

crowders mountain climbing feature

Climb
Many outdoor enthusiasts are satisfied with the strenuous hike to the “top of the world” at Crowders Mountain’s rocky peak. Conquering this steep, rocky ascent is a worthy achievement, and the payoff is a spectacular view of the North Carolina Piedmont.


Heartier souls prefer another method of conquering Crowders: scaling the 150-foot sheer rock cliffs to the summit. Rock climbing is allowed by park permit, and climbers must bring their own equipment. An even stiffer challenge is bouldering, which is also allowed by park permit. Park at the Boulders Access Area and hike one mile to the Boulders.

Dog Walk at Crowders Mountain Visitor Ce

Pet Friendly
Crowders Mountain State Park allows dogs on all 11 trails, provided they are on a leash no more than six feet in length. The 11 trails vary in difficultly from easy to strenuous, so be sure to pick the right route for your pup (and you).


Please note the trails at Crowders Mountain are quite popular with humans, particularly during weekends, so keep that in mind when planning a hike with your dog. If you visit during a peak time, you will likely encounter a lot of two-legged and four-legged traffic along the way.

 

VISIT CROWDERS MOUNTAIN TODAY

Places in Crowders Mountain

Crowders Trail

The Crowders Trail is part of the trail system at Crowders Mountain State Park and runs 2.5 miles through this popular park.

2.5 miles, One Way

Moderate

Natural Surface, Boardwalk, Gravel

Places in Crowders Mountain

Fern Trail at Crowders Mountain

This loop trail connects with a portion of the Turnback Trail and follows a creek for some portions of the trail.

0.80 miles loop

Easy

Natural Surface

Places in Crowders Mountain

Tower Trail at Crowders Mountain

Begins at the Linwood Access Area and ends at the radio towers on Crowders Mountain.

1.8 miles one way

Advanced

Natural Surface

Places in Crowders Mountain

Rocktop Trail at Crowders Mountain

This trail crosses several rock ledges and requires good footwear and careful attention to staying on the trail.

1.4 miles one way

Advanced

Natural Surface

Places in Crowders Mountain

Pinnacle Trail at Crowders Mountain

The Pinnacle is the highest point in Gaston County at 1,705 feet.

2 miles one way

Advanced

Natural Surface

Places in Crowders Mountain

Lake Trail at Crowders Mountain

The trail circles the park lake.

0.8 miles loop

Easy

Natural Surface

Places in Crowders Mountain

Ridgeline Trail at Crowders Mountain

Connects you to a 16-mile hiking trail loop at Kings Mountain State Park.

8 Miles One Way

Advanced

Natural Surface, Gravel

After your hike go relax in town

After Your Hike Go Relax In Town

Places in Crowders Mountain
Places in Crowders Mountain

Gastonia

Gastonia is the largest town in Gaston County, North Carolina and can be found just south of I-85 off of exit 17 in the center of the county. Hwy 321 runs north and south straight through town giving even better access to this booming metropolis.

WHAT'S HAPPENING AT CROWDERS MOUNTAIN

VISITORS GUIDE

Get your FREE Gaston County Visitors Guide and start planning your vacation today!A printed version of our FREE visitor guide can be sent by mail. Simply fill out and submit the form below.
Gaston County Visitor Guide 2020 Cover.j
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