Moses H. Cone Memorial Park
A preserved Gilded Age estate with 25 miles of scenic carriage trails, historic manor, and beautiful lakes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Wildflowers and lush greenery bloom
Moses H. Cone Memorial Park
Best Time
Wildflowers and lush greenery bloom
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A preserved Gilded Age estate with 25 miles of scenic carriage trails, historic manor, and beautiful lakes.
"It's definitely worth a stop if you're on the Parkway and is honestly a destination unto itself."
🚶♀️ Explore the Carriage Trails
Lace up your walking shoes! Over 25 miles of trails await. Great for hiking, biking, and even horseback riding.
🛍️ Shop for Local Crafts
Don't miss the shops inside Flat Top Manor for unique, locally made souvenirs and gifts.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Flat Top Manor
Moses H. Cone Memorial Park
A majestic 20-room mansion offering a glimpse into Gilded Age architecture and housing local craft shops.
Bass Lake
Moses H. Cone Memorial Park
A picturesque man-made lake surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for a serene stroll or a moment of reflection.
Carriage Trails
Moses H. Cone Memorial Park
Over 25 miles of scenic, well-maintained gravel paths ideal for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
Observation Tower
Flat Top Mountain
Hike to the summit for panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the surrounding estate.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Carriage Trails
Visit the Historic Manor
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Explore the Carriage Trails
Lace up your walking shoes! Over 25 miles of trails await. Great for hiking, biking, and even horseback riding. 
🛍️ Shop for Local Crafts
Don't miss the shops inside Flat Top Manor for unique, locally made souvenirs and gifts.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Adventures
Bring your furry friends! Dogs are welcome on leash along the trails and carriage ways.
🚗 Ample Parking Available
Finding a spot is usually not an issue, with plenty of parking areas throughout the park.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Explore the Carriage Trails
Lace up your walking shoes! Over 25 miles of trails await. Great for hiking, biking, and even horseback riding.
🛍️ Shop for Local Crafts
Don't miss the shops inside Flat Top Manor for unique, locally made souvenirs and gifts.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Adventures
Bring your furry friends! Dogs are welcome on leash along the trails and carriage ways.
🚗 Ample Parking Available
Finding a spot is usually not an issue, with plenty of parking areas throughout the park.
📸 Capture Stunning Views
The park offers numerous picturesque spots, especially around the lakes and from Flat Top Mountain.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Moses H. Cone Memorial Park for its stunning natural beauty, extensive and well-maintained carriage trails, and the charm of the historic Flat Top Manor. It's considered a must-visit for its serene atmosphere and picturesque views, offering a peaceful escape and a glimpse into the past.
"My husband and I loved this place! The house is so beautiful to look at, inside there are some small shops with interesting items for sale. There are a lot of options for hiking with family and friends and all so beautiful. We went to the Cone graves as well as the lake. The views were absolutely amazing. The trails are well maintained and ready for anyone ambitious. We will come back soon!"
CINTHYA O. DICKINSON
"Ok, so not only is it easily accessible, it's also gorgeous. Tons of walking/running and hiking trails coupled with beautiful mountain scenery. The manor itself is pretty, but it pales compared to the scenery. Pristine wilderness, cery pretty bass lake, quirky stairs to nowhere. It's definitely worth a stop if you're on the Parkway and is honestly a destination unto itself."
James McCallum
"Quickly stopped by on our blue ridge parkway road trip, was a nice view and to see the mansion too. Didn't want the trails nearby.
Portaloos/portapotties were available on site if needed.
Plenty of parking too."
Charlotte Humphreys
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Moses H. Cone Memorial Park is conveniently located just off the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 294, near Blowing Rock, North Carolina. It's easily accessible by car, and many visitors stop here during a Blue Ridge Parkway road trip.
Yes, there is plenty of parking available at Moses H. Cone Memorial Park, making it easy for visitors to access the manor and trails.
While the park is directly on the Blue Ridge Parkway, you can also access the general area via local roads leading to Blowing Rock, NC. However, the most scenic approach is via the Parkway.
Portaloos or portable toilets are typically available on-site for visitor convenience.
The park is situated near the charming mountain towns of Blowing Rock and Boone, North Carolina, offering additional dining and lodging options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Moses H. Cone Memorial Park is a public park and does not require an entrance fee. You can explore its grounds and trails for free.
The park grounds and trails are generally open from dawn to dusk. The shops within Flat Top Manor may have specific operating hours, so it's best to check locally if you plan to visit them.
Since there is no entrance fee, no advance booking is required to visit Moses H. Cone Memorial Park. You can visit anytime during its open hours.
While official guided tours might not be regularly scheduled, the park's historical significance and natural beauty are easily explored independently. Carriage rides are available through private services.
Yes, the interior of Flat Top Manor is accessible and houses several shops selling local crafts and artisanal goods.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The park boasts over 25 miles of carriage trails, perfect for leisurely walks or more vigorous hikes. Popular spots include trails around Bass Lake and the hike up to the observation tower on Flat Top Mountain.
Absolutely! Families will enjoy the open spaces, gentle trails around Bass Lake, and the opportunity to explore the historic manor. It's a great place for a picnic and outdoor fun.
Yes, dogs are welcome at Moses H. Cone Memorial Park as long as they are kept on a leash. It's a great place for a walk with your canine companion.
Activities include hiking, walking, biking, photography, picnicking, and exploring the historic Flat Top Manor and its craft shops. Horseback riding is also popular on the carriage trails.
Many visitors enjoy exploring the extensive carriage trails on foot or by bicycle. For a unique experience, consider a carriage ride offered by local services.
📸 📸 Photography
Bass Lake offers beautiful reflections and scenic views, especially with the manor in the background. The carriage trails provide lovely framed shots, and the summit of Flat Top Mountain offers panoramic vistas.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Golden hour can be particularly magical here.
Look for the historic Flat Top Manor, the serene lakes, the expansive carriage trails, and the diverse flora and fauna. Autumn foliage provides stunning color opportunities.
Drone usage is typically restricted in National Park Service areas to protect wildlife and visitor experience. It's best to check specific regulations before flying a drone.
A versatile lens, like a 24-70mm, is great for landscapes and the manor. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive views, and a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The historic Flat Top Manor also provides an engaging element, with its unique architecture and the opportunity to browse the craft shops. It's a chance to introduce children to a piece of local history in a relaxed and accessible setting. The open fields and scenic views make for memorable family photos and a fun day outdoors.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
🚗 Blue Ridge Parkway Travelers
+1Take a break from driving to wander through the Flat Top Manor, browse the craft shops, or embark on a short hike around Bass Lake. The park provides a refreshing interlude on your Parkway journey, showcasing the blend of history and natural beauty that defines the region.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Moses H. Cone
+1After Cone's death, Bertha continued to manage the estate and eventually donated it to the National Park Service in 1949, with the stipulation that it be preserved for public enjoyment. This act of generosity ensured that the beautiful landscape and historic structures would be accessible for generations to come. The park stands as a testament to Cone's foresight and his commitment to conservation.
Today, Moses H. Cone Memorial Park is a beloved destination for its historical significance and its stunning natural environment. Visitors can walk in the footsteps of the Cone family, appreciating the Gilded Age architecture and the carefully cultivated landscapes that remain remarkably preserved. It's a place where history and nature beautifully intertwine.
Exploring the Carriage Trails
+1These trails are ideal for hiking, jogging, and cycling. Many are relatively gentle, making them accessible for most fitness levels. For those seeking a bit more challenge, the trails leading up to Flat Top Mountain offer elevation gain and rewarding views. Dogs on leashes are welcome, making it a fantastic spot for a walk with your pet.
+1Beyond recreation, the carriage trails offer a unique way to experience the park's history and natural beauty. As you traverse these paths, you can imagine the Cone family enjoying their estate in a bygone era. The well-maintained nature of the trails ensures a pleasant experience, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the serene mountain environment.
+1Seasonal Beauty and Activities
+1Summer brings lush foliage and pleasant temperatures, making it ideal for longer hikes and picnics by the lakes. The hydrangea gardens near Bass Lake are particularly stunning during this time.
Autumn is arguably the most spectacular season, with the Blue Ridge Mountains ablaze in a riot of red, orange, and yellow. The park's rolling hills and expansive views are breathtaking during fall foliage season. While winter can bring snow, dusting the landscape in white, the park remains open for those who enjoy a quiet, serene winter walk. The carriage trails are still accessible, offering a peaceful escape. Regardless of the season, Moses H. Cone Memorial Park provides a beautiful and restorative natural setting for visitors.
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