Stone Mountain, a granite dome which rises 700 ft. from the valley floor, is particularly spectacular because the isolated rock is not connected to a mountain range. Circling the rock clockwise, you’ll reach the bottom of Stone Mountain Falls via a long stairway. On a side trail, Middle and Lower Falls are quieter versions of the main waterfall, where you’ll find remnants of the area’s moonshine past.

Length: 6.4 miles

Altitude gain: 1,350 feet

Map: Stone Mt. State Park map available at the visitor center

Trailhead: From N. Wilkesboro on NC 18, turn east on Mountain View Rd. and drive for 5.4 miles. Turn left on Traphill Rd. (SR 1002). After 10.1 miles, turn left on John P. Frank Parkway, which leads into the park after 2.6 miles.

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