Discover the Natural Wonders of South Mountains State Park
Explore the breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and endless outdoor adventures at South Mountains State Park, a must-visit destination in North Carolina.
Nestled in the heart of North Carolina, South Mountains State Park is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Featuring over 21,000 acres of diverse landscapes, it offers a myriad of recreational activities including hiking, biking, and wildlife observation. With breathtaking scenery and well-maintained trails, this state park provides an ideal escape for tourists looking to connect with nature and experience the tranquility of the great outdoors.
A brief summary to South Mountains State Park
- 3001 S Mountain Park, Connelly Springs, North Carolina, 28612, US
- +1828-433-4772
- Visit website
- Monday 7 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-10 pm
- Thursday 7 am-10 pm
- Friday 7 am-10 pm
- Saturday 7 am-10 pm
- Sunday 7 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and potentially spot more wildlife.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as some trails can be steep and rocky.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially if you plan on hiking longer trails.
- Check the park's website for trail conditions and any alerts before your visit.
- Don’t forget your camera; the views, especially at sunset, are spectacular.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving, start by heading towards Connelly Springs, North Carolina. From the Blue Ridge Mountains, locate NC-181 S. Follow NC-181 S for approximately 15 miles until you reach the intersection with NC-70 E. Turn left onto NC-70 E. Continue on NC-70 E for about 5 miles, then turn right onto S Mountain Park Road. Follow S Mountain Park Road for about 3 miles, and you will arrive at the entrance of South Mountains State Park, located at 3001 S Mountain Park, Connelly Springs, NC 28612. Parking at the park is free.
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Public Transportation
Public transportation to South Mountains State Park can be challenging as direct services are limited. However, you can take a Greyhound bus to Morganton, NC. From there, you would need to arrange for a taxi or rideshare service (like Uber or Lyft) to reach the park. The taxi ride will be approximately 20 minutes and could cost around $30-$40. Make sure to check the bus schedules in advance and confirm the availability of taxi services.
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Bicycle
For the adventurous, biking to South Mountains State Park can be a rewarding experience. Starting from Morganton, take NC-181 S for about 15 miles. This route has some elevation changes, so be prepared for a challenging ride. After reaching the intersection with NC-70 E, turn left and follow the road until you reach S Mountain Park Road. The total distance from Morganton to the park is approximately 20 miles. Make sure to wear a helmet and bring plenty of water.
Discover more about South Mountains State Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mountain View
14.3 km
Explore Mountain View, a historical landmark in Morganton, NC, where rich history meets serene beauty, perfect for every traveler and history enthusiast.
Bakers Mountain Park
24.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and outdoor adventures at Bakers Mountain Park in Hickory, NC, perfect for hikers and nature lovers alike.
Old Piedmont Wagon
32.5 km
Discover the Old Piedmont Wagon, a historical landmark in Hickory, NC, where the past comes alive and stories of adventure await every visitor.
Lake Hickory Riverwalk
32.9 km
Explore the stunning Lake Hickory Riverwalk, a tranquil hiking area perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts in Hickory, North Carolina.
Hickory Antiques Mall Inc.
33.0 km
Explore Hickory Antiques Mall for an unforgettable journey through time with unique vintage treasures, collectibles, and nostalgic finds in North Carolina.
Market on Main
33.4 km
Discover Hickory's charm at Market on Main, a vibrant event venue showcasing local culture, art, and community gatherings.
Hickory North Carolina
33.5 km
Explore Hickory, North Carolina: A vibrant city blending rich history, stunning nature, and Southern hospitality, perfect for every traveler.
Sails On The Square
33.7 km
Discover Sails On The Square, Hickory's premier event venue, blending rustic charm with modern amenities for unforgettable gatherings.
Parking Spot, Oktoberfest
33.8 km
Experience the vibrant Oktoberfest in Hickory, NC with convenient parking at the Oktoberfest Parking Spot, ensuring hassle-free access to all the festivities.
Trade Alley Art
33.8 km
Explore the creative heart of Hickory at Trade Alley Art, where local talent meets contemporary artistry in an inspiring gallery setting.
Hickory Historic Preservation
34.0 km
Explore Hickory's rich history at the Historic Preservation Commission, where the past meets the present in a charming Southern city.
Bechtler Mint Site Historic Park
34.1 km
Explore Bechtler Mint Site Historic Park, a unique blend of history and nature in North Carolina's gold country, perfect for all ages.
Salt Block Foundation
34.4 km
Experience the vibrant cultural hub of Hickory at the Salt Block Foundation, a unique space for community art and engagement.
McComb Park/Beaver Memorial Garden
34.8 km
Experience the serene beauty of McComb Park and Beaver Memorial Garden in Hickory, NC - a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and tourists alike.
Hickory Metro Convention Center & Visitors Bureau
35.9 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Hickory Metro Convention Center, where culture, business, and community come together in North Carolina.
Unmissable attractions to see
High Shoals Falls
4.7 km
Explore High Shoals Falls, a breathtaking waterfall in South Mountains State Park, where nature's beauty meets adventure in North Carolina.
Silver Fork Winery
14.2 km
Discover the enchanting Silver Fork Winery in Morganton, NC, where fine wines, live music, and breathtaking views await every visitor.
Foothills Conservancy of North Carolina
15.3 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and vital conservation efforts at Foothills Conservancy of North Carolina, where nature and education intertwine.
Blueberry Bistro at Perry's Berry's Vineyard & Winery
22.9 km
Experience the perfect blend of local flavors and stunning vineyard views at Blueberry Bistro in Morganton, NC.
Perry's Berry's Vineyard and Winery.
22.9 km
Experience the best of Morganton's wine country at Perry's Berry's Vineyard and Winery, where delightful wines, fresh produce, and homemade ice creams await.
Hidden Cove Boat Ramp
22.9 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Hidden Cove Boat Ramp in Nebo, NC, perfect for boating, fishing, and enjoying nature's serenity.
Lake James Beach
23.4 km
Experience the serene beauty of Lake James Beach, a perfect destination for swimming, picnicking, and enjoying nature in North Carolina.
Paddys Creek Area
23.4 km
Explore the natural beauty of Paddys Creek Area, a tranquil park in Nebo, NC, perfect for hiking, fishing, and enjoying the great outdoors.
Lake James Sunset Cruises
23.5 km
Unwind on Lake James with breathtaking sunset cruises, perfect for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility on the water.
Lake James State Park
23.6 km
Discover the serene beauty of Lake James State Park, a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility in North Carolina's natural paradise.
Paddy's Creek Campground
23.7 km
Discover the tranquility of Paddy's Creek Campground, a nature lover's paradise in Nebo, NC, perfect for camping, hiking, and family fun.
Fonta Flora County Park and Connector Trailhead
25.9 km
Explore Fonta Flora County Park: A Scenic Hiking Paradise in Morganton, North Carolina, Perfect for Nature Lovers and Adventurers.
Lake Hickory Haunts
27.8 km
Discover thrilling haunted adventures and spine-chilling escape rooms at Lake Hickory Haunts, a premier attraction in Hickory, NC, for horror enthusiasts.
Lake Hickory Escape
27.8 km
Experience thrilling adventures and immersive storytelling at Lake Hickory Escape, a must-visit escape room center in Hickory, North Carolina.
Spinners
28.5 km
Experience the thrill and excitement of Spinners in Hickory, NC - a vibrant tourist attraction perfect for family fun and friendly competition.
Essential places to dine
The Angus Steakhouse
28.5 km
Experience mouthwatering steaks and exceptional service at The Angus Steakhouse in Hickory, NC - a true haven for steak lovers.
Amos Howards Brew Pub
29.4 km
Experience delicious American cuisine and local craft beers at Amos Howards Brew Pub in Hickory, NC – a perfect blend of comfort and charm.
Duck N' Good Food Place Hmong Restaurant
29.6 km
Experience authentic Hmong cuisine at Duck N' Good Food Place in Hickory, NC – where every dish tells a story.
Circus Hall of Cream
30.6 km
Experience delicious American fast food and delightful ice cream treats at Circus Hall of Cream in Hickory, NC.
West End BBQ
30.7 km
Experience mouthwatering Southern barbecue at West End BBQ in Hickory, NC – where every bite is a celebration of flavor.
MOUNTAIN Fried Chicken
31.5 km
Discover MOUNTAIN Fried Chicken in Hickory, NC – where comfort food meets Southern hospitality with a unique twist on fried chicken.
Charolais Steakhouse
32.8 km
Indulge in Hickory's finest steaks at Charolais Steakhouse - where every meal is a flavorful experience.
Hart & Soul Café
33.4 km
Discover delicious meals made from fresh ingredients at Hart & Soul Café in Hickory, NC – your go-to spot for breakfast and lunch delights.
Duke's Restaurant and Wine Bar
33.5 km
Discover culinary excellence at Duke's Restaurant and Wine Bar in Hickory - where exquisite dining meets an exceptional wine selection.
Crescent Moon Cafe
33.7 km
Discover delicious vegetarian cuisine at Crescent Moon Cafe in Hickory, where fresh ingredients meet creative flavors for a delightful dining experience.
Olde Hickory Station
33.7 km
Discover the flavors of the South at Olde Hickory Station - where great food meets warm hospitality in the heart of North Carolina.
Olde Hickory Tap Room
33.7 km
Experience authentic American cuisine and craft brews at Olde Hickory Tap Room in Hickory, NC – where flavor meets tradition.
Vintage House Restaurant
33.8 km
Experience exquisite cuisine and elegant ambiance at Vintage House Restaurant in Hickory, NC – a fine dining gem for every occasion.
FOURK
34.7 km
Discover FOURK in Hickory: where innovative American cuisine meets warm hospitality in a cozy setting.
KOBE - Japanese House of Steak & Seafood
34.9 km
Experience the best of Japanese cuisine at KOBE - where skilled chefs bring your meal to life with exceptional teppanyaki flair.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The JAMB
16.0 km
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The OG Shoppe
30.5 km
Explore The OG Shoppe for unique finds and local treasures in the heart of Marion, NC, where every item tells a story.
Vintage Market Marion
30.6 km
Explore Vintage Market Marion, a charming antique store filled with unique treasures and local art, perfect for collectors and casual shoppers alike.
Mystical Uniques
31.4 km
Explore Hickory's Mystical Uniques for a diverse selection of gifts and handcrafted treasures, capturing the essence of North Carolina's local artisans.
The Otaku Hangout LLC
32.3 km
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Vintage Memories
32.5 km
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Vintage Blue: Mid Century to Modern Furniture & Decor
32.5 km
Explore Vintage Blue in Hickory, NC for exquisite mid-century modern furniture and unique home decor treasures that bring character to your living space.
The Hickory Tree
32.6 km
Explore The Hickory Tree in North Carolina for unique antiques, vintage furniture, and distinctive decor that captures the essence of local heritage.
King & Queen Consignment Shop
32.6 km
Explore the King & Queen Consignment Shop in Hickory, NC, for unique, gently used clothing and accessories at affordable prices.
The Sally Company
32.6 km
Explore The Sally Company Gift Shop in Hickory, NC, for unique treasures, local crafts, and a taste of Southern hospitality.
Plum Pretty Consignment
32.8 km
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Safe Harbor's ReSource Warehouse
32.8 km
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June & Ivory Boutique
32.9 km
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Jenny's Gifts & Accessories
33.3 km
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Mint + Modern LLC
33.6 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Son Of The South Saloon
29.6 km
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After 5 Pub & Grill
30.5 km
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The Gateway Pub & Grill
32.5 km
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Neon Waves
32.9 km
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Dive Bar Hickory
33.8 km
Experience Hickory's vibrant nightlife at Dive Bar Hickory, where exciting games and great food come together for a memorable outing.
the oak room
34.8 km
Discover the charm of The Oak Room in Hickory, a beloved bar offering craft drinks and a cozy atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Windy City Sundries
34.9 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and unique local vibe at Windy City Sundries, Hickory's favorite bar for great drinks and entertainment.
Bootleggers' Whiskey Bar - Grill
35.5 km
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Shooters Lounge
35.6 km
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On The Low Lounge
35.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at On The Low Lounge in Hickory, NC, featuring live music, affordable drinks, and an inviting atmosphere.
Hickory Tavern
36.6 km
Experience delicious American comfort food in Hickory, NC, at Hickory Tavern, where great taste meets a lively sports atmosphere.
Wizard's Restaurant & Saloon
37.2 km
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13 Twenty Hickory Pub - 1320 Pub
37.5 km
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670 on Oak Tavern and Grille
48.1 km
Discover the warmth of Southern hospitality at 670 on Oak Tavern and Grille in Spruce Pine, where local flavors meet a cozy atmosphere.
Legends on the Lake
48.8 km
Experience the flavors of Legends on the Lake, where stunning views meet delicious food in a family-friendly atmosphere.
