Elk Knob State Park is one of North Carolina's newest state parks, opened to the public in 2003 after efforts by citizen groups and the Nature Conservancy to preserve the Elk Knob region from commercial development. The park, which surrounds Watauga County's highest mountain peak, spans 3,680 acres within the Blue Ridge Mountains, approximately 10 miles from the city of Boone. Though the park's facilities are currently in the process of development, year-round activities are already available, including one of North Carolina's only opportunities for cross-country skiing during the winter months. A hiking trail offers views of nearby peaks in Tennessee and Virginia, and a backcountry camping area is accessible via permit. Visitors can also view exhibits or attend community days related to the region's mountain communities, developed by faculty and students at nearby Appalachian State University.

5564 Meat Camp Road, Todd, NC 28684, Phone: 828-297-7261

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