Topics Related to Mountain Region

Animal Track Ornaments

Pop in anytime between 1 pm to 4 pm and join Park Superintendent Nora Coffey to learn about different animal tracks and other signs that can be found around Lake James and make your own animal track ornaments to take home.

StoryWalk®: Owl Moon

Walk the Sandy Cliff Overlook Trail and read "Owl Moon" by Jane Yolen.

First Day Hike – Raymond Fisher Pond

Join us at Gorges State Park for the 2025 annual First Day Hike.

First Day Hike – Upper Bearwallow Falls

Join us at Gorges State Park for the annual First Day Hike.

Guided Hike – Raymond Fisher Pond

Join us at Gorges State Park for a guided hike down the Raymond Fisher Trail.

Upper Bearwallow Falls Hike

Hike with a Ranger! Join Ranger Hill for a short 0.4-mile round trip to one of Gorges State Park’s waterfalls. We will learn how waterfalls are formed and the three different types of waterfalls. Please bring proper footwear and water. Meet at the Bearwallow Picnic Shelter.

First Day Hike 2025

Put your best foot forward in 2025! Join Ranger Hughes for a nature walk along the Fox Den Loop Trail for Lake James State Park’s first guided hike of the year.

A Letter From Our Director

State Parks Director Brian Strong provides additional information on post-Helene rescue and recovery efforts and the status of western state parks.

Public Notice: State Parks and Innovative Readiness Training Program

The North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation is providing an opportunity for public comment on a collaboration with the U.S. Department of Defense.

Year of the Bear Events