Elk Knob State Park

Trails Status

Hiking Trails

Open

Longer hikes in the backcountry are discouraged until the park is fully open.

Camping

Activities

Trails

Education

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

Maps

Fees

There are no fees required to access Elk Knob State Park for day use. Fees are charged for camping and certain event permits.

Pets

Pets are allowed at the park and at campsites. They are not permitted inside buildings. Pets must be on an attended leash of no longer than 6 feet at all times.

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.

 

Open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Education

Ecology & History

Videos

Field Trips

Learning Materials

Additional Links

Scheduled Events at Elk Knob State Park

Park staff lead regularly scheduled interpretive programs that allow the public to gain perspective into what makes North Carolina state parks naturally wonderful. Learning opportunities are available for all ages. Most events are free, though some may require pre-registration.

Host Your Event at the Park

Make your special occasion naturally wonderful. State parks are great places for birthday parties, reunions, weddings, and more. Learn more about event permits and fees on the Facilities page.

Park Rules

Jobs

News

Park Planning

Friends of High Country State Parks

Join, volunteer or donate! The Friends of High Country State Parks promotes, supports, and advocates for Elk Knob, Grandfather Mountain, and New River state parks, and Mount Jefferson State Natural Area through organizing volunteer efforts, educating visitors, hosting events, and fundraising.

Friends of State Parks

Friends of State Parks is a nonprofit citizen organization supporting, promoting, and advocating for the North Carolina State Parks system as a whole. The group helps provide funding for Junior Ranger and Youth in Parks – Environmental Education programs, as well as grants for state parks projects.

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