Number 17 on my 40 Things List is to hike 25 locations in NC this year. This weekend, I completed hike #1.

A little over an hour from my house is Hanging Rock State Park. This beautiful destination is located in Stokes County, North Carolina, 30 miles north of Winston Salem. Hanging Rock State Park is full of breathtaking views and lots to do. There are over 20 miles of hiking trails, mountain bike trails, and horse trails. Swimming and boating is available on the lake in season. Fishing is available year round on the lake and Dan River. You will also find over 70 camping sites and cabins inside the park.

Since it was pretty cold (30 degrees F) when I woke on Saturday morning, I took my time making my way to the park. I arrived around 11am and set off on the Hanging Rock Trail. The trail entrance is at the visitor’s center parking lot and is approximately 2.6 miles out and back.

I completed this hike solo but there were dozens of people (and dogs) on the trails. This trail starts off slow with plenty of hills but ends with steps and a steep rocky climb that will leave you huffing. The pay off is definitely worth it. I am terrified of heights but I got close enough to get some cool shots. A young couple was nice enough to snap a picture of me. Even though the sign says the trail is 2.6 miles, when I completed the hike, my phone said I had hiked 4.36 miles.

I am extremely out of shape and this was a tough first hike but I am so happy I pushed through. This is a hike I will undoubtedly do again. I would also like to check out the falls trails at this park and maybe even plan a camping trip for a few days during warmer weather.