Stokes County, NC
Now is the perfect time to plan a leaf peeping drive, with the windows down enjoying a kaleidoscopic show of vibrant auburn, yellow and red coloring in Stokes County, NC. Take the less traveled path on rural roadways where the only traffic jam you may encounter is that of a tractor heading out to the field. Cast a reel at the Hanging Rock Lake, sit back to admire the colorful array reflecting onto the water, as you catch the largest trout of a recent re-stock.
Natural flora and fauna along roadsides make for great talking points, driving away from Hanging Rock out into the local communities bringing their own charm to all the natural beauty. While you can really get lost in the abundance of over 704 species of mountain flora that are found throughout the state park, plan your daily itinerary to include trails, campfires, and exploration of local small businesses.
Venture out to downtown areas of Danbury, King or Walnut Cove for shops and galleries, unique local diners, farm tours and experiences. Known as the antiquing capital of Stokes – Walnut Cove is home to one of the largest two story Antique Malls in the area. The Just Plain Country Store, just one visit here may consume hours of your free time, as you browse booths and items on display taking you back to yesteryear.
Downtown King is ideal for a charming stroll along Main Street and Dalton Road, sidewalks lead to an all-inclusive Playground at Recreation Acres with platforms, swings, climbing areas and castles to explore. Kids will find themselves in their own fantasy land while the grownups plan their next stop or reflect on the days adventures. If that next stop includes lunch, a snack, or dinner check out the luncheonette at King Drug Co., stop into “The View” Diner and Coffee Shop at Harrington Park to admire an amazing wall mural spanning the entire backside of the building or find a chef prepared meal at Mountain View Kitchen along Highway 66.
Meander Route 66 along a portion of the Hanging Rock Scenic Byway up to the new Pilot Mountain Vineyards & Winery in Pinnacle. Taste local Wines at the Tasting Room each afternoon Thursday to Sunday. PMV opened for business in August but is home to award winning wines of the “Great American International and NC Fine Wine Competitions of 2020.
Return to Danbury and step onto the creaking hardwood floors of the 100 plus year old Priddy’s General Store, grab a glass bottle soda from the cooler and browse local items and classic favorites like baked pies and stick candy. Saturday afternoons in October LIVE Bluegrass can be enjoyed from the back lawn and stage. Performances this month include “Grace & Grass”, “Henry Mabe & Friends”, “Mountain Stings Old Time Band”, and “Hubert Lawson”.
The perfect mountain getaway, closer than you think. Experience hiking trails, waterfalls, rock climbing, mountain biking, horseback riding, camping, fishing and more. Enjoy a leisurely float down the Dan River by canoe, kayak, paddleboard, or tube. www.hangingrock.com
