You may be surprised what you’ll find in North Carolina – as well as where you’ll find it. And the Big Rock Nature Preserve, located in a Charlotte neighborhood, is a perfect example of a hidden treasure in the Queen City. If you don’t live nearby, then the next time you travel to Charlotte check out this big rock park. It’s an adventure like no other…
The Big Rock Nature Preserve is an awesome tiny little park in the Mecklenburg County Parks and Rec system. It’s oddly located in the heart of a neighborhood, and definitely worthy of a vist.
Google Maps/Nano Lancet
As the name of the park suggests, it IS filled with big rocks; but you’ll also discover some unique hiking around the preserve. The small park is comprised of a mere 22 acres, which may not seem large in comparison to some larger parks found in the state.
Google Maps/Matt Dandona
But what the park lacks in geographic size… it more than makes up for with the massive boulders found here. There are plenty of them found along the hiking path.
Google Maps/Chad Everett
And in the center of the park is a gigantic grouping of granite boulders that provide a maze-like experience while exploring.
Google Maps/Scott Chisolm
Be sure to wear appropriate hiking shoes if you’re planning to climb. People do it, and it is allowed; just be sure to protect your ankles!
Google Maps/Alex Thron
Kids, and kids at heart, love checking out the many cracks and crevices found among the big rock grouping (where the park gets its name).
Google Maps/Chris Elder
You never know what fun angles and interesting spots you’ll discover as you wander about.
Trover/Dennis Mooney
And even the short hike leading up to Big Rock has plenty to see. Many of the rocks have unusual erosion patterns; and one of them even has a hollowed-out core.
Google Maps/Angela Mullis
As for history, Big Rock Nature Preserve is believed to have been inhabited by Native Americans as far back as 7,000 years ago. Evidence suggests they hunted and gathered on this land and it is presumed the Big Rock was used as a lookout.
Google Maps/Angela Mullis
Ready to visit and explore this fun spot? It’s easy to find!
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Big Rock Nature Preserve is located just outside the I-485 loop south of Charlotte. The address is 6500 Elmstone Dr, Charlotte, NC 28277. Admission is free, and it’s open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Learn more at this link.
Google Maps/Nano Lancet
Google Maps/Matt Dandona
Google Maps/Chad Everett
Google Maps/Scott Chisolm
Google Maps/Alex Thron
Google Maps/Chris Elder
Trover/Dennis Mooney
Google Maps/Angela Mullis
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