Stone Mountain is not immediately visible upon entering the park that bears its name, but this magnificent 600-foot granite dome is well worth the wait. Sunlight and shadows dance across a broad tapestry of stone. White-tailed deer emerge from the security of the forest to graze on meadow grasses at the mountain’s base. The scenery is only one attraction of the park.

Test your fly-fishing techniques in more than 17 miles of designated trout waters. Or with more than 16 miles of trails, take a hike in the park. Designated as a National Natural Landmark in 1975, Stone Mountain is bound on the north by the Blue Ridge Parkway and on the west by the Thurmond Chatham Game Lands. More than 13,747 acres of mountain beauty offer opportunities for outdoor activities of all kinds.

Activities: Camping (campsites for tents or trailers, 6 back-packing sites), Educational Programs (held monthly), Exhibits and historic sites (Mountain Culture and Insect exhibits, the historic site of the Hutchinson Homestead and the Garden Creek Baptist Church), Fishing (17 miles stream of designated trout waters for fly fishing and/or other types of rods), Picnicking (75 picnic sites and three large shelters), Rock climbing and Rappelling (contact park office about designated areas), Hiking (8 trails), and Horseback Riding (2 trails).

Directions: Stone Mountain State Park is located in Wilkes and Alleghany counties, seven miles southwest of Roaring Gap and about 45 minutes from Mount Airy. From the south, turn off US 21 onto SR 1002 to the John P. Frank Parkway. From the west, take NC 18 north and turn right on SR 1002. Follow SR 1002 to the John P. Frank Parkway.

Park Hours: November-February, 8 a.m.-6 p.m.; March, October 8 a.m.-7 p.m.; April, May, September 8 a.m.-8 p.m. and June-August 8 a.m.-9 p.m.