Elk Knob State Park

Trails Status

Hiking Trails

Closed

About the Park

Map of North Carolina with a star indicating the location of Elk Knob State Park

Located in Watauga County 11 miles north of Boone, Elk Knob State Park was established in 2003 to protect the mountain and the headwaters of the North Fork of the New River. An overlook summit rewards visitors with a panoramic view of North Carolina's high country. Backcountry campsites, located 1 to 2 miles into a cover forest with beautiful streams, offer the ultimate primitive overnight experience. In the winter, about 1 mile of ungroomed trail is open to cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. 

Camping

  • Tent sites (backpacking and zone backpacking only)
  • Group tent sites (backpacking only)
  • Firewood

Activities

  • Hiking (5.5 miles)
  • Picnicking
  • Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing (about 1 mile of ungroomed trail and must bring your own equipment)

Amenities

  • Amphitheater

Plan Your Visit

Address

5564 Meat Camp Road, Todd, NC 28684

GPS: 36.3325, -81.6906

 

Current Weather

Note: The temperatures shown are for the community of Todd. The summit at Elk Knob State Park is 5,520 feet above sea level, and temperatures may be several degrees colder than shown, so please plan accordingly.

28684 Todd, NC

Park Hours

Tab/Accordion Items

Month

Hours

January 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
February 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
March 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
April 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
May 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
June 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
July 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
August 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
September 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
October 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
November 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
December 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

 

Photo Gallery

Top: Elk Knob mountain, C. Peek

Gallery: Summit Trail after heavy snowfall, J. Giordano  |  Summit south view in the spring, J. Mickey  |  Hikers on the trail, staff photo  |  Summit north view in the fall, C. Peek  |  Frosted trees in the park, staff photo