Marrow Mountain State Park NC
Marrow Mountain State Park is located near Ablemarle, NC in Stanly County, NC. It has activities like hiking, camping, fishing, horseback riding, swimming, and more! You can even rent out cabins here which is pretty neat if you are looking to take a weekend getaway.
About Marrow Mountain State Park NC
This park is only about a little over an hour from Charlotte, and it is a great place to escape if you aren't looking to be around crowds. (I found issues with going out to places like Crowder's Mountain or Max Patch just because there was so many people!)
Marrow Mountain State Park sits in the Uwharrie Mountains, and Marrow Mountain is the highest peak in the Uwharrie mountain range. In the park, you can also see many different water sources like the Uwharrie River, Pee Dee River, and Lake Tillery. The park does not have an entry fee, so that was a nice added bonus.
Sugarloaf Mountain Trail
The most popular trail at Marrow Mountain State Park is Sugarloaf Mountain Trail. You can take either the shorter loop (2.8 miles) or the long loop (5.4 miles) to complete the journey. If you take a right at the first initial fork, you will have a strenuous hike up the mountain. I suggest taking a left if you want to have an easier more enjoyable hike. But, if you are looking for a challenge, go right.
Sugarloaf Mountain ascends 858 feet above sea level, and the view at the top is beautiful. You can see mountains and the waterways for miles and miles.
*Dogs are able to go on the trail as long as you keep them on a leash.
Where to Park for Sugarloaf Mountain Trail
Bridle Trail Parking Area
This parking area has a restroom, so be sure to take a stop here if you need to before starting the trail!
What Other Trails Should You Hike in NC?
If you are an explorer, be sure to check out Stone Mountain State Park and the Fryingpan Mountain Tower. Those are two other great options for you to look at that aren't overly crowded!
