3 Hidden Spots You Didn’t Know Existed in Crowders Mountain State Park

Located only 32 miles west of Charlotte, Crowders Mountain State Park is one of North Carolina’s most visited state parks. Between all of the secret places and hidden gems in Crowders Mountain State Park, it's a true natural playground for outdoor adventurers. For nature lovers who crave mountain peaks and magnificent views, few other parks can compare. From fishing to bouldering and everything in between, this state park appeals to all sorts of adventurers.

While you may be familiar with popular trails like the Pinnacle Trail and Crowders Trail, there are plenty of hidden spots in Crowders Mountain State Park where you can escape the crowds and find yourself on a lesser-known yet equally amazing side quest. 

3 Hidden Spots You Didn’t Know Existed in Crowders Mountain State Park

Backside Trail

The Backside Trail is a moderately difficult out-and-back trail that’s just shy of two miles. There’s less than 700 feet of elevation gain, which appeals to beginner and intermediate hikers without sacrificing epic views. The trade-off, however, is that to reach the magnificent viewpoint, you’ll need to climb 200+ steps. The journey will be rewarded with a view! This trail offers the option to connect to other trails, including the Crowders Trail, should you want to continue onward and upward. 

Shorts Lake Trail

Trade those summit views for a lakefront trail on the Shorts Lake Trail at Crowders Mountain State Park. The trail makes a loop around the lake and clocks in at just under a mile. It’s the perfect warm-up trail to get your steps in, admire the view, and maybe even do a little birdwatching while you’re at it. The wildflowers that pepper the trail tend to attract butterflies, too!

Paddle the Lake

One of my favorite things to do in Crowders Mountain State Park is to enjoy the lake. Of course, the lake itself isn’t much of a hidden gem, but did you know you can BYOB (bring your own boat) and paddle around? Visitors can bring their own kayak or canoe and drop in to explore the park from an entirely new perspective. There are no boat rentals at Crowders Mountain State Park, so you’ll need to bring your own. Kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and electric-powered watercraft are the only water vessels allowed on the water.

No swimming is allowed, but feel free to bring your tackle box and try the fishing at Crowders Mountain State Park! Largemouth bass, blue gill, and white crappie are just a few of the types of fish you could reel in. Don’t forget your North Carolina fishing license. 

Why These Hidden Gems in Crowders Mountain State Park Are Worth Finding

The lesser-known attractions in Crowders Mountain State Park (and any park) are always worth seeking out. Not only do they offer a chance to escape the crowds, but they also showcase a side of the park that social media often overlooks. Who knows, you might stumble into a hidden gem that becomes the main attraction soon?

Tips for Exploring Crowders Mountain State Park Beyond the Crowds

Everyone wants to experience North Carolina’s State Parks without the crowds, but that isn’t always realistic. Of course, there are ways to give yourself the best odds of having a hiking trail or a viewpoint to yourself:

• Visit early in the morning
• Visit on a weekday
• Avoid weekends and holidays

Crowders Mountain State Park is free to enter for day use. The only fees at Crowders Mountain State Park are for camping, group climbing, and facility reservations. The park is also pet-friendly, as long as they are kept on a leash, so feel free to bring your four-legged best friend along for the adventure. If you plan on camping at Crowders Mountain State Park, keep in mind that there is a one-mile hike from the parking lot to the campground. 

All of these hidden gems in Crowders Mountain State Park are easy to access and offer a chance to experience the park with fewer crowds. Whether you’re looking to get outdoors more or get some hiking experience in, you’ll find plenty of things to do at Crowders Mountain State Park. Visit the official website of Crowders Mountain State Park to learn more and start planning your adventure today!

Read on to discover some of the best overlooks in North Carolina. Many of them don't require you to be an expert hiker, either!