Pilot Creek, Grindstone, and Visitor's Center

Type of Outing: Hike
When: SUN 2/9/2025 1:00 PM
Signup Deadline: 2/8/2025 5:00 pm
Leader: C.T. Finney
Distance: 8 miles
Difficulty: R-16, Easy
Elevation Gain: 800 ft.
Description: Come away with me to the majesty of the Sauratown Mountains, to Pilot Mountain, or what the American Indians called “Jomeokee,” or “The Great Guide,” which to this day remains one of North Carolina’s most iconic natural landmarks. On Sunday, February 9th at 1:00PM, I plan to lead a hike along the Pilot Creek trail, a tributary of the mighty Yadkin River. Our journey will begin across the way from the mountain, on the hauntingly beautiful Pilot Creek Trail where we will hike beneath the lush foliage, by the murmuring stream of Pilot Creek, through stunning meadows with crisp views of Big Pinnacle, and by ancient homesteads left in ruin from the wake of a simpler time. We will then hike up the mountain a ways and take the Grindstone Trail out to the visitor's center where we'll enjoy a small afternoon break and return to our cars the way we came. The route that we take will give you a fairly comprehensive tour of the foothills of the mountain and should take us about 3 hours or so to complete. After the hike, I plan to go to the nearby town of Pilot Mountain for a trail-cap at the Tilted Ladder and would love all who can to join me. 8 miles, 800 ft elev, [R-16]
Max Participants: 15