We’re gearing up for one of the wettest, and quite possibly the snowiest, winters in many years and for western North Carolina, particularly the High Country, this means more opportunities to enjoy winter recreation. When the snow begins to fly there is one North Carolina state park that’s ideal for cross country skiing and snowshoeing.
At an elevation of 5,520 feet, Elk Knob is the third highest peak in Watauga County, behind Calloway Peak at Grandfather Mountain (5,964’) and Snake Mountain (5,580’).
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Elk Knob State Park features trails that are rated from easy to strenuous. Cross country skiing is at its best on the Beech Tree Trail (one mile) or the Maple Run Trail (0.5 mile).
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Whether skiing or snowshoeing, exploring the trails at Elk Knob in the snow is an almost surreal experience.
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If you’ve never been snowshoeing but have tried hiking in the snow in your regular shoes, then you’ll appreciate how much warmer your toes stay when they (and your ankles) stay above the snowline.
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Many of the state parks in the western part of the state close after a significant new snowfall. But it seems that the snowshoe and cross country trails at Elk Knob put this park in a special class all of its own.
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There are four major trails to explore in the snow at Elk Knob. They range from 0.5 mile to two miles.
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Getting to the summit may require some special footwork in the snow. Even in snowshoes some places may be very slippery. So don’t be so overconfident you forget to watch for icy spots.
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No matter the season, the views from all over Elk Knob are sensational.
alltrails/Bill Watson
Winter, spring, summer, or fall… Elk Knob is North Carolina’s most underrrated state park. Have you visited in any season yet? Think you’ll be trying your hand at snowshoeing?
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Elk Knob State Park is located a mere 10 miles north of Boone, North Carolina. Admission is free. Note: In certain weather conditions a four-wheel-drive vehicle may be necessary to access Elk Knob. The hours are: Nov.-Feb. 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Mar., Apr., May, Sept., and Oct. 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.; June, July, Aug. 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Learn more on the official website here.
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Address: Elk Knob State Park, 5564 Meat Camp Rd, Todd, NC 28684, USA
