Elk Knob State Park
Elk Knob State Park is the first park in our 2025 North Carolina State Park Challenge, where we are going to go to all 44 North Carolina State Parks this year! Elk Knob is a unique Park that does its best to stay open even in heavy snow so visitors can go snowshoeing. We were lucky enough to go up on the day after they got at least 6 inches of snow and had the Park virtually to ourselves.
Elk Knob State Park was established in 2003 and is just north of Boone, NC. Elk Knob is one of the highest mountains in Watauga County- the summit of is 5,520 ft above sea level, and the temperature will be several degrees colder than Todd, NC. When we went there was barely any snow on the ground driving through Boone, but the Park had at least 6 inches. I suggest calling the park office to check current weather status before heading over.
The Park offers hiking, backcountry camping, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Camping is currently closed due to Hurricane Helene. Check the website for updates on when campsites open again.
Like most State Parks, all trails are dog friendly as long as your dog is on a leash no longer than 6 feet and you pick up after them. Dogs are not allowed in Park buildings.
There are 4 hiking trails, we took the most popular trail, Summit Trail which is 1.9 miles one way and rated moderate-strenuous. In 6 inches of snow with snowshoes and a dog, I would definitely say this trail is strenuous. We made it to the top just fine, but it definitely took us a LOT longer than expected. The trails close 15 minutes before the park entrance gate is locked, so make sure you give yourself enough time to complete your hikes.
Park Details:
ADDRESS: 5564 Meat Camp Road, Todd, NC 28684.
HOURS: November-February: 7am-6pm
March-May & September-October: 7am-8pm
June-August: 7am-9pm
**The Park is closed on Christmas Day- but is open all other holidays.
VISITOR CENTER: Open daily 8am-5pm
PASSPORT STAMP: The stamp is kept outside of the Visitor Center in a box to the right of the stairs bringing you up to the visitor center.
ENTRANCE FEE: None
TRAILS: 5.5 miles of hiking trails. Summit Trail is the most popular ending with panoramic views of Watauga County.
ACTIVITIES: Hiking, Camping, Snowshoeing, Cross-country Skiing
DOG RULES: Dogs allowed on all hiking trails. Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 ft. Please pick up after your dog. Dogs not allowed in Park buildings.
Check out our videos about this Park on instagram @axel.theadventurepup
