Pilot Mountain State Park
Iconic 2,400-ft. quartzite knob offering panoramic views, challenging hikes, and rock climbing opportunities.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful hikes
Pilot Mountain State Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful hikes
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic 2,400-ft. quartzite knob offering panoramic views, challenging hikes, and rock climbing opportunities.
"This is a very pretty and serene place. It’s worth the effort."
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is a Must
Trails are rocky and can be steep. Hiking poles are highly recommended for stability and to ease your knees.
☀️ Pack Sunscreen & Bug Spray
Essential for warm weather hiking in the Southeast to protect against sun and ticks.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Big Pinnacle
Summit
Iconic 2,400-foot quartzite knob offering panoramic views and challenging rock climbing opportunities.
Pilot Knob Trail
Summit Loop
An easy, 0.8-mile loop around the base of the Big Pinnacle, perfect for quick views and accessible hikes.
Grindstone Trail
Visitor Center to Summit
A more strenuous 3.5-mile (one-way) hike from the visitor center, rewarding hikers with varied terrain and great exercise.
Visitor Center
Base of the park
Informative exhibits, ranger programs, and a starting point for many trails, great for families.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Trail Preparedness is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is a Must
Trails are rocky and can be steep. Hiking poles are highly recommended for stability and to ease your knees.
☀️ Pack Sunscreen & Bug Spray
Essential for warm weather hiking in the Southeast to protect against sun and ticks.
🚗 Drive or Hike to the Top
You can drive to the summit parking lot or hike the Grindstone Trail from the visitor center.
🐶 Dogs on Leash Welcome
Your furry friends can join the adventure, but they are not allowed on the park shuttle.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is a Must
Trails are rocky and can be steep. Hiking poles are highly recommended for stability and to ease your knees.
☀️ Pack Sunscreen & Bug Spray
Essential for warm weather hiking in the Southeast to protect against sun and ticks.
🚗 Drive or Hike to the Top
You can drive to the summit parking lot or hike the Grindstone Trail from the visitor center.
🐶 Dogs on Leash Welcome
Your furry friends can join the adventure, but they are not allowed on the park shuttle.
📸 Drone Permits Required
Flying drones requires a permit; check park regulations before your visit.
🧺 Picnic Spots Galore
Plenty of scenic spots to enjoy a packed lunch with family and friends.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Pilot Mountain State Park for its stunning natural beauty and the iconic views from the Big Pinnacle. The challenging trails offer a great workout, and the park is a beloved spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Some reviewers note that the view from the immediate overlook has become slightly obstructed by trees, encouraging a short hike for the best vistas.
"I love the views from Pilot, but the overlook from the parking lot is not what it used to be. Some young trees have grown up, so if you really want to get a look at the stunning valley view you’ll need to do a little hiking or rock climbing. That said, this is a very pretty and serene place. It’s worth the effort.
The trails have a lot of boulders for steps and can be challenging. Hiking poles are highly recommended, particularly if you are an active older person looking to get exercise while minimizing your risk of falling. Likewise you might want to avoid hiking up or down Three Bears Gully - which is on the scary side. I’d suggest bug spray to keep ticks at bay and sunscreen as well. Nothing out of the ordinary for warm weather hiking in the south eastern US.
Ravens nest on the pinnacle so it can’t be climbed, but there is a trail that loops around the base. Hiking at Pilot can be a really great workout for your quads!"
Marlys de Alba
"I have always loved Pilot Mountain State Park! When I was little, my family would go camping here every year. I'm glad it is still thriving and loved that they have added a shuttle for more people to be able to enjoy the Knob. It was certainly busy but there are many different trails to choose from. If you bring a dog, they are not allowed on the shuttle. We took the Grindstone trail from the visitors center up to the knob (3.5 miles one way). There were definitely some strenuous sections but also some flattish sections that provided a bit of a break. Bathrooms at the top were clean and there were working water fountains outside the bathroom!"
Lydia Miller
"It was raining hard by the time we arrived at the summit parking area. We waited until the rain stopped so we only had 16 minutes to walk around. Yet during that brief period of time, we saw magnificent views and we silently witnessed the grandeur of God's creation. Amen."
Jamie Cruz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Pilot Mountain State Park is located in Pinnacle, NC. The main entrance and visitor center are at 1721 Pilot Knob Park Road, Pinnacle, NC 27043. It's easily accessible by car, and many visitors find it a convenient day trip from the Triad area.
Yes, there is parking available at the summit parking lot, which allows for easy access to the Pinnacle trails. There's also parking at the visitor center, which is the trailhead for longer hikes like the Grindstone Trail.
Public transportation options to Pilot Mountain State Park are limited. It's primarily a destination best reached by private vehicle. Some visitors have mentioned a shuttle service to the Knob, but dogs are not permitted on it.
You can drive your car directly to the summit parking lot and then take a short walk to the overlooks. Alternatively, for a more challenging experience, you can hike the Grindstone Trail from the visitor center, which is a strenuous 3.5-mile one-way trek.
While the park website generally indicates re-opening after events like fires, it's always best to check for specific trail closures. Some areas may remain inaccessible.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Pilot Mountain State Park does not typically charge an entrance fee for general access. However, specific programs or events might have associated costs. It's always a good idea to check the official North Carolina State Parks website for the most current information.
The park grounds are generally open from 7 AM to 9 PM daily. The Visitor Center has more limited hours, typically from 9 AM to 5 PM.
No, advance ticket booking is not usually required for general entry to Pilot Mountain State Park. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis for parking and trail access.
Yes, if you plan to fly a drone within the park, you will need a permit.
Yes, Pilot Mountain State Park offers scenic camping spots. You can find more information and book campgrounds through services like Spot2Nite.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
For stunning views, the Pilot Knob Trail (0.8 miles) loops around the summit. For a more challenging hike, the Grindstone Trail (3.5 miles one-way) starts from the visitor center. The Ledge Spring Trail is another option.
Yes, Pilot Mountain is renowned for its rock climbing opportunities. However, the main Pinnacle is often closed to climbing due to nesting ravens.
Absolutely! The summit offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valley. Even the overlook from the parking lot provides a glimpse, though hiking a bit further enhances the vista.
Yes, it's an excellent park for families. The visitor center offers programs, and there are picnic spots. Shorter, accessible trails like the Pilot Knob Trail are great for kids.
Dogs are welcome at Pilot Mountain State Park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. They are not permitted on the park shuttle.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants directly inside Pilot Mountain State Park. However, the nearby town of Pilot Mountain and Pinnacle offer dining options. You can also enjoy a picnic within the park.
Yes, Pilot Mountain State Park has numerous designated picnic areas, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a meal amidst nature.
The town of Pilot Mountain and the nearby Pinnacle area offer various eateries, from casual cafes to pizza places. Pinnacle Paradise is mentioned as an ice cream shop.
Yes, working water fountains are available, including near the bathrooms at the summit.
Trail bars made with wholesome ingredients, like those from Bob's Red Mill, are recommended for energy on the trails.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit overlooks offer stunning panoramic views, especially during sunrise and sunset. The unique rock formations of the Big Pinnacle are also a prime subject. +1
Drone photography is permitted, but you must obtain a permit from the park authorities beforehand.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer colors. Sunrise and sunset can be particularly magical.
While general photography is encouraged, be mindful of any restricted areas, especially those related to wildlife or climbing. Always respect the natural environment.
You'll find dramatic quartzite knob formations, lush forests, and expansive valley views. The changing seasons also offer diverse photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the many scenic spots. Ensure everyone has comfortable shoes and stays hydrated, especially during warmer months. Remember that dogs are welcome but must be leashed. 🚶♀️ Hikers & Outdoor Enthusiasts
🧗♂️ Climbers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Pilot Mountain's Trails
When planning your hike, it's crucial to be prepared. Many trails are characterized by boulders and uneven surfaces, which can be challenging. Hiking poles are highly recommended by visitors to aid stability and reduce the risk of falls, especially on steeper descents.
For those interested in more adventurous activities, Pilot Mountain is also a popular spot for rock climbing. However, it's important to note that the main Pinnacle is often closed to climbing due to nesting ravens, so always check current park advisories.
Capturing the Majesty of Pilot Mountain
Beyond the main Pinnacle, the park's diverse terrain offers ample photographic opportunities. Explore the rock formations along the trails, capture the lush forest canopy, and look for opportunities to photograph local wildlife, such as the ravens that frequent the area.
When planning your photo expeditions, consider visiting during the golden hours – early morning and late afternoon – for the most dramatic lighting. The changing seasons also bring unique visual appeal, from vibrant spring wildflowers to the rich colors of autumn foliage.
Family Adventures at Pilot Mountain
The park provides numerous picnic areas, making it easy to enjoy a meal outdoors surrounded by scenic beauty. For families with younger children or those seeking less strenuous activities, the Pilot Knob Trail offers a manageable 0.8-mile loop around the base of the Pinnacle with rewarding views.
Longer hikes like the Grindstone Trail are also available for more adventurous families, but it's advisable to assess your children's stamina and preparedness. 
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