Cedar Rock Trail

Cedar Rock Trail visits the park's second granite dome, a less-visited summit that rewards hikers with solitude and wide-open rock slabs above the tree line. While smaller than the famous Stone Mountain dome, Cedar Rock offers its own distinct character with extensive lichen-covered granite outcrops, wind-sculpted vegetation mats, and excellent views south toward the Yadkin River valley. The loop passes through a diverse mosaic of habitats including dry oak-hickory forest on exposed ridges, moist hemlock-lined creek drainages, and open granite outcrops hosting rare plant communities adapted to the harsh conditions. Pitcher plant seeps appear in some of the wetter granite depressions, supporting carnivorous plants that thrive where nutrients are scarce. Because this trail sees far fewer visitors than the Stone Mountain Loop, wildlife is often more easily observed, particularly wild turkey, ruffed grouse, and various woodland songbirds. The trail connects to the broader park trail network and can be combined with other routes for longer outings. The park's $7 vehicle fee applies. Trail junctions are well signed, but carrying a map is still advisable for this less-traveled route.