Outdoor adventures are just as FUN in the cooler winter temperatures of Stokes County. Locals say, “Winter is the best time for a relaxing, brisk hike to vistas of clear views for miles”. Take in the fresh mountain air of the Piedmont Region at Hanging Rock State Park, helping to clear the immune system of unwanted winter germs, as well as giving your mental health a boost to ward off the winter blues. Once temperatures drop below freezing for multiple days at a time, nature lovers flock to one of five waterfalls in the park, to admire the frozen wonder of icicles that form around rock outcroppings. If you are lucky, the most unique spectacle to experience, along an easy half mile trek, is the ability to walk behind or right up to the waterfall frozen in time.
Kick off 2024 with a First Day hike at Hanging Rock! We will hike 1.3 miles to the summit of Hanging Rock, where we will kick the new year off right! Please meet at the Hanging Rock trailhead dressed appropriately for the weather to experience amazing views!
Don’t miss this group hike with Park Rangers and trail builders for an insider’s perspective of the new trail and Ruben Mountain.
At the turn of the New Year, Hanging Rock State Park offers something a bit outside the box — at least it is when the weather turns crisp. The Polar Plunge ushers in New Year for hundreds of crazy and happy thrill-seekers. They flock to Hanging Rock on January 1, donning their favorite outlandish costume, ready to dive fearlessly into the New Year and the icy waters of the Hanging Rock Polar Plunge. The Stokes County Arts Council sponsors the annual splash and it helps raise money to fund art related events in the park throughout the year. The Polar Plunge runs New Year’s Day, 2-4:00 p.m, spectators are welcome, Chili and Chicken Stew will be served.
