The best walks and hikes in Stokes County
4.9
(42)
910
hikers
29
hikes
Hiking in Stokes County, North Carolina, offers diverse outdoor experiences within the Sauratown Mountains, an isolated range rising from the Piedmont. The region is characterized by distinctive geological formations, including prominent rock outcrops and monadnocks, alongside lush forests and scenic waterways. Two state parks, Hanging Rock State Park and Pilot Mountain State Park, provide the primary access to these varied landscapes. Trails lead to panoramic viewpoints, waterfalls, and river sections, catering to a range of hiking preferences.
Best hiking trails…
Last updated: April 26, 2026
5.0
(1)
23
hikers
12.6km
04:15
400m
330m
Embark on the Indian Creek Trail for a moderate hiking experience through diverse woodland scenery, where the pleasant sound of water often accompanies you. This route runs parallel to Indian…
2
hikers
7.75km
02:52
330m
100m
Embark on the Moores Wall Loop Trail for a moderate hiking experience through Hanging Rock State Park. This 4.8-mile (7.7 km) route challenges you with 1074 feet (327 metres) of…
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6
hikers
6.78km
02:16
120m
120m
The Wolf Rock Loop Trail offers a moderate hiking experience through diverse natural beauty, including dense forests and impressive rock formations. You'll cover 4.2 miles (6.8 km) and gain 393…
6
hikers
3.21km
01:20
240m
10m
Embark on the Moore's Knob Lookout Tower Trail, a moderate hiking route that spans 2.0 miles (3.2 km) with a significant elevation gain of 784 feet (239 metres). You can…
5
hikers
3.69km
01:16
20m
190m
Embark on the Cooks Wall Trail for a moderate hike spanning 2.3 miles (3.7 km), offering a rewarding experience in Hanging Rock State Park. You'll navigate a varied landscape of…
3
hikers
14.6km
05:08
570m
280m
If you're looking for a challenging hike, the Indian Creek and Moore's Wall Loop Trail delivers. This difficult 9.1-mile (14.6 km) route climbs 1883 feet (574 metres) over about 5…
4
hikers
4.27km
01:29
90m
80m
Embark on the Moores Wall, Magnolia Springs, and Cooks Wall Trail Loop for a moderate hiking adventure. This route covers 2.7 miles (4.3 km) and involves an elevation gain of…
1
hikers
997m
00:22
0m
80m
Embark on a moderate hike along the Indian Creek Trail to discover Hidden and Window Falls. This short route covers just 0.6 miles (1.0 km) with no elevation gain, making…
1
hikers
8.95km
03:19
280m
260m
Embark on the Torys Den Trail, a moderate hiking route spanning 5.6 miles (8.9 km) with an elevation gain of 905 feet (276 metres). You can expect to complete this…
1
hikers
8.95km
03:19
280m
260m
Embark on the Torys Den Trail for a moderate hike that takes you through diverse forest landscapes. You will cover 5.6 miles (8.9 km) and ascend 905 feet (276 metres),…
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Tips from the Community
Moore’s Knob Tower, located in Hanging Rock State Park, is a popular destination for hikers in North Carolina. Originally a fire lookout tower, it has been replaced by a stone observation tower that offers sweeping views of the surrounding area - on clear days you might be able to see the cities of Greensboro and Winston-Salem! There are two main routes to reach the tower: a shorter hike of 3.8 miles on the Moore’s Knob Loop Trail starting at the lake, or a longer 4.5-mile loop.
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Tory's Den is a cave in the Hanging Rock State Park and is named after the Tories who used the cave during the American Revolution between 1775 - 1783. You can enter the cave and take a look at the inside.
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Tory's Falls is a small waterfall in an area called Tory's Den in the Hanging Rock State Park. While you can usually get a nice view of the waterfalls from the overlook, the waterfalls sometimes dry out in summer.
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With an elevation of almost 2,600 feet, Moore's Knob is the highest mountain in the Sauratown Mountains. The Lookout Tower on top of the mountain nowadays serves as an observation platform and a panel provides information about the surrounding area.
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Balanced Rock is one of many masterpieces of nature, that can be found in Hanging Rock State Park. To get there, it only takes a very short detour from Moore's Wall Loop Trail and Moore's Knob. Make sure to not miss the sight of such a perfectly balanced rock on top of another one.
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Located close to Cole Gap Mountain and along Wolf Rock Trail, Wolf Rock is a nice viewpoint over the area. From here, you can see the two cities of Winston-Salem and Greensboro in the distance.
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House Rock is located along Cook's Wall Trail and is named like that because the overhanging cliff forms something like a rooftop for the 'house' below. Standing on top of the cliff, offers you a great overview.
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Next to the parking lot at State Park Road, there is a lake called Hanging Rock Park Lake. The lake can be accessed from the parking lot or from the Cook's Wall Trail and Moore's Wall Trail Loop. The lake includes a small beach where you can enter the lake and refresh yourself.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking in Stokes County?
Stokes County offers diverse landscapes, primarily within the Sauratown Mountains. You'll encounter distinctive geological formations like prominent rock outcrops and monadnocks, lush forests, and scenic waterways. Both Hanging Rock State Park and Pilot Mountain State Park provide access to these varied environments, with trails leading to panoramic viewpoints, waterfalls, and river sections.
Are there any trails that feature waterfalls in Stokes County?
Yes, Hanging Rock State Park is home to several picturesque waterfalls. You can explore trails like Hidden Falls & Window Falls, which leads through forested areas to these beautiful cascades. Other notable waterfalls include the Lower Cascade and Upper Cascade Falls, accessible via dedicated trails within the park.
What are some of the most scenic viewpoints in Stokes County?
Stokes County boasts several spectacular viewpoints, especially within Hanging Rock State Park. The summit of Hanging Rock offers expansive panoramic views. Other notable spots include Moore’s Knob Observation Tower, View from Wolf Rock, and House Rock, all providing rewarding vistas of the surrounding Piedmont and Sauratown Mountains.
Are there any circular hiking routes available in Stokes County?
Yes, several circular routes offer varied terrain and rewarding experiences. For a challenging loop, consider the Wolf Rock, Cook's Wall & Moore's Knob loop in Hanging Rock State Park. Another option is the Moore's Knob & Balanced Rock loop via Tory's Den Trail, which also provides a comprehensive tour of the park's features.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Stokes County?
The best time to hike in Stokes County is generally during spring and fall. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, while fall offers spectacular foliage colors, especially around the prominent rock formations. Summer can be warm and humid, but shaded trails provide relief. Winter hiking is also possible, offering crisp views without the crowds, though some trails might be slick.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for families or beginners?
Yes, Stokes County offers options for various ability levels. While many trails involve elevation changes, there are easier sections and shorter paths suitable for families and beginners. For example, the trails leading to the Lower Cascades in Hanging Rock State Park are generally less strenuous. Always check the specific trail difficulty before heading out.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Stokes County?
Generally, dogs are welcome on trails in both Hanging Rock State Park and Pilot Mountain State Park, provided they are kept on a leash. However, it's always recommended to check the specific park regulations or individual trail signage for any restrictions before your visit, as rules can vary.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Stokes County?
The hiking experiences in Stokes County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 25 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the unique geological formations, the rewarding panoramic views from peaks like Hanging Rock, and the serene beauty of the waterfalls. The diverse range of trails catering to different difficulty levels is also a common highlight.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced trekkers?
Absolutely. For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, Stokes County offers several difficult routes. The Wolf Rock, Cook's Wall & Moore's Knob loop is a difficult 8.5-mile path traversing multiple peaks with significant elevation changes. Another strenuous option is the Moore's Knob & Balanced Rock loop via Tory's Den Trail, which covers over 14 kilometers with considerable ascent.
What are the main natural attractions or landmarks to look out for?
Beyond the trails themselves, Stokes County is rich in natural landmarks. In Hanging Rock State Park, you can find the iconic Hanging Rock Summit, the distinctive Balanced Rock, and Window Falls. Pilot Mountain State Park is famous for its unique 'Big Pinnacle' monadnock, a prominent landmark visible for miles.
How many hiking trails are available in Stokes County?
Stokes County offers a wide array of hiking opportunities, with over 19 distinct hiking routes recorded. These trails vary in difficulty, from easy strolls to challenging ascents, ensuring options for every type of hiker.
Is parking available at the state parks in Stokes County?
Yes, both Hanging Rock State Park and Pilot Mountain State Park provide designated parking areas for visitors. It's advisable to arrive early during peak seasons or on weekends, as parking lots can fill up quickly, especially at popular trailheads. Check the respective park websites for any specific parking fees or permit requirements.
Most popular attractions in Stokes County
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