Compiled By Chris Murphy
Elk Knob State Park, located near Boone, NC, is a relatively new but vital addition to the North Carolina park system, established to protect one of the highest peaks in Watauga County and the headwaters of the North Fork of the New River, one of the oldest rivers in the world. Rising to an elevation of 5,520 feet, the summit of Elk Knob offers stunning 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding High Country, including Grandfather Mountain, Mount Jefferson, and the Iron Mountains.
The park is renowned for its Summit Trail, a well-graded, 1.9-mile (one-way) path that ascends the mountain. Although it has a moderate to strenuous difficulty due to elevation gain, the trail’s gentle switchbacks and well-maintained gravel tread make the thousand-foot climb manageable and rewarding.
Elk Knob is a biodiversity hotspot, thanks to its unique amphibolite rock geology, which supports a wide array of rare plant life. In the winter, the park is a popular destination for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing on its ungroomed trails, offering a quieter, more isolated mountain experience than the nearby ski resorts. Visitors can also enjoy a picnic area and a small network of easier trails like the Beech Tree and Maple Run Trails near the park entrance.
IMPORTANT –
Elk Knob State Park is partially open for day-use activities following the impacts of Hurricane Helene, but certain areas remain closed due to storm damage.
While the park’s trails are generally open for day use, all campsites (including backcountry and group sites) are closed until further notice. Visitors should expect some trails, specifically the Backcountry Trail, to be closed. It is best to check the official NC State Parks website or call the park office for the most current trail status before visiting, as conditions can change.
For the most up-to-date information on trail closures and opening hours, always check the NC State Parks official website or contact the Elk Knob park office directly.
