With summer weather on the horizon, now is the perfect time to plan your escape to the mountains and waterways of Stokes County, NC! Work up a sweat as you explore the more strenuous trails of Hanging Rock State Park, break for lunch at one of the many local eateries, then cool down with a leisure float on the Dan River before sun down. Book an overnight stay with one of the many local accommodations, or set up camp at a campsite or cabin inside the park, stories and marshmallows around the campfire cap off the perfect day.
Did you know the Dan River crosses the North Carolina and Virginia border eight times? Plan your river adventure along the Dan River State Crossings with The Dan River Company, the staff here can outfit any group with the perfect canoe, kayak or stand up paddle board. After a short shuttle ride to a point upstream, your float downstream can be chilling or thrilling with opportunities to experience Class one and two rapids before returning to the “play wave” near DRC take out.
Kick off the River Tubing season on the Dan this Memorial Day weekend! Book your outing with a local river outfitters including General Dan Tubing Co. or Hillside Tubing in Danbury. The General Dan Tubing Company will feature the new River Shiver Shaved Ice Shop, perfect for cooling off before your float. Depending on level of the river float times average around three hours.
After exiting the river at Moratock Park continue down Sheppard Mill Road and arrive at a true local relic, Priddy’s General Store, for a step back in time. Take in a little bluegrass pickin’ and flat footin’ at the Memorial Day Pickin’ at Priddy’s on May 25th, featuring Travis Frye and Blue Mountain. Pop the cap of a glass soda pop, set up your chair or picnic blanket and enjoy.
Maybe fishing is your water activity of choice? Recent restocking of Brown and Rainbow Trout at Hanging Rock lake allows for friendly competition as you cast a line for the biggest fish, here you can take what you catch. The lake at Hanging Rock is also perfect for family outings to swim or canoe. Belews Lake in the southeastern section of Stokes County is perfect for boating, fishing, jet skiing or catching some rays from the dock. Bring your swim suit and enjoy our waterways!
The perfect mountain getaway, closer than you think. www.hangingrock.com