Hike and Rock Climb Moore's Knob

Looking for a shorter hike with stunning views, or a place to rappel with a backdrop like no other on the East Coast? Look no further than Moore's Knob, located within Hanging Rock State Park. Just North of Winston-Salem, Moore's Knob is one of the many wonders of the Sauratown Mountains. At 2579 feet you will encounter a lookout tower on top of the rock slabs. This tower will allow you to take in a 360 view from on top of the mountain! There are many places to boulder once you reach the top! Cell phone service is very spotty, so take caution as you explore the boulders.

To find the trail, pass the visitor center and park in the lake area parking lot. Restrooms are located, along with park maps, at the visitor center. Drive to the upper parking lot at Hanging Rock Lake. The trail starts to the left of the lake buildings. An easier start to the trail is by starting at the family campground. You may park at either the lake or visitor center. If you plan on camping at the family campground, this trail is a perfect way to start your day off with a sunrise! This trail consists of dirt with wooden and rock steps. The trail is usually not heavily populated. Simply follow the trail to the top! This hike is strenuous so remember to pace yourself.

If you decide to rappel or rock climb, it is available in the park by permit. Moore's Wall, which is a wall of cliffs up to about 400 feet high, provides opportunities for all types of climbers. All other areas of the park are closed to climbing and rappelling, except one other location called Cooks Wall. All climbers must register with the park by doing a climbing and rappelling registration and activity permit, which is available at the park office. There is no fee for this permit. Participants are responsible for their own personal safety. Make sure you have brought the proper equipment and tools in order to set anchors and safely enjoy the cliffs! Equipment and tools are not provided by the park. Anchors may be set by sturdy trees and boulders.

Getting there: From Winston-Salem, take US 52 north for about 13 miles to exit 122 (Moore-RJR Drive). Follow this road east for about four miles to NC 66 and turn left (north). Continue on 66 for seven miles to Moore's Spring Road (SR 1001). Turn right on Moore's Spring and continue a short distance to another right turn on Mickey Road. Follow this almost a mile to Charlie Young Road and turn right. You will come upon a parking lot and trailhead kiosk for the Tory's Den trail. Continue up Charlie Young Road, take a right onto Hooker Farm Road for less than a half mile; turn right at the "Climbers Access" sign onto a dirt road and continue to a gravel parking lot on the left. Follow the trail past the kiosk for a short distance until you reach a gravel road, and turn left. From this point there are several trails that take you to different climbing spots. GPS Coordinates: 36.3979, -80.2917

Park hours:

• November-February, 8 a.m.-6 p.m.
• March and October, 8 a.m.-7 p.m.
• April, May, September, 8 a.m.-8 p.m.
• June-August, 8 a.m.-9 p.m.
• Closed Christmas Day
• Park office hours: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. daily
• Closed state holidays