From Roanoke, we headed South to see family in Winston-Salem. As we have a grandchild with us, we cannot go within 150 miles of Grandma without bringing the grandchild near; it’s a rule. Between Roanoke and Winston sits Hanging Rock, one of the most popular destinations outside of Winston.
Originally planned to be a private resort with sweeping views, the area was converted to a State Park in 1936 after the resort developers went bankrupt. In stepped the Civilian Conservation Corps to create the park and core facilities we see today. Thanks to them and the Great Depression, one of North Carolina’s most cherished parks exists today for all to enjoy.
And enjoyed it is. The grounds host tons of camping, a lake for swimming, and, of course, a hiking trail to the top of Hanging Rock. A massive parking lot greets visitors for what seems at first an easy trail to the top. A gentle, paved path changes to a gravel path before morphing to stairs for the last quarter. A hike quickly turns into a climb, but the view is worth it.
