Crowders Mountain and Pinnacle Loop Hike

Type of Outing: Hike
When: SAT 1/28/2023
Signup Deadline: 5:00 pm
Leader: Mike Sprague
Distance: 11 miles
Difficulty: 33, Strenuous
Elevation Gain: 2,000 ft.
Description: Please join me for a 11-mile hike in an interesting state park within 2 hrs of the Triad area. We will start at the Linwood Road access to Crowders Mountain State Park. Hike up the backside trail to the top of Crowders Mountain. This section of the hike includes a steep 800 foot ascent which ends with a lengthy set of stairs. Once on top, there are several rock outcroppings with nice views of the surrounding low lands. After a break we will continue on the Rocktop trail across a rocky ridge where the trail scrambles over interesting rock formations (some bouldering required). It is very doable but maybe not best for people who are scared of heights. The trail descends down a rocky slope to a connector trail, which passes near the visitor center, to the Pinnacle trail. This trail ascends up another 900 foot peak. On the top of the Pinnacle there are multiple outcroppings for viewing the surrounding lowlands. We will return to the trailhead via the Turnback trail past the visitor center (restrooms available), the same connector trail we walked earlier and the Crowders trail which skirts the side of Crowders Mountain. Please email, or call, for meeting times and places. I plan on having separate carpools from both Greensboro and Winston Salem. 11 Miles, 2000 feet (R-33)