Cook’s Wall Trail to Devil’s Chimney in Hanging Rock State Park - Walnut Cove, NC
“Two roads diverged in a wood and I – I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference” – Robert Frost
“The sun waits for no man. Think about it Dad.” - Alex Shields
The Story -
I thought that the frigid temperatures and the crisp wind chill on Saturday would deter people from spending the day hiking at Hanging Rock State Park, with most opting instead for a warmer indoor activity. Boy, was I wrong! I guess there is a first time for everything 😂
The Mountains Away From The Mountains (The Sauratown Mountains) -
I love Hanging Rock State Park for many reasons - the diversity of trails, the numerous activities, and its location to name just a few. Yet I have to admit that I normally refrain from visiting the park. Why you might ask? Well, as much as I would like to think that numerous people are reading my blog and heeding my advice to “hike more worry less,” I normally prefer to hike in less crowded locations and in a more solitary environment. Note however, that even with a large amount of people, my hike on the Cook’s Wall Trail to Devil’s Chimney in Hanging Rock State Park was a fun and very pleasurable six-mile hike. I am even willing to go so far as to say that it is one of my favorite hikes in North Carolina!
Wow, One Of Your Favorite Hikes In NC?
Yes, you read that right! Perhaps due to a combination of cooler weather and maybe partly my lower expectations, Cook’s Wall Trail to Devil’s Chimney was/is one of my favorites hikes in North Carolina. It’s a very diverse trail offering many of the things I look for in a hike. And by making a plan and some slight modifications to our route in order to minimize the crowds, we were able to enjoy the gorgeous fall colors and multiple scenic overlooks, rock outcroppings, springs and streams in relative solitude.
Spill The Tea -
To access the Cook’s Wall Trail, Ginger, Alex, Sophie and I chose to start on the most popular trail at Hanging Rock State Park, the wonderful but overcrowded namesake Hanging Rock Trail. (Genius plan so far right 😂) I did mentally prepare myself for the sheer horde of people with hopes that my plan to escape the masses would work. After hiking about a half mile on the congested Hanging Rock Trail, we veered right onto the Wolf Rock Trail passing by House Rock, eventually joining Cook’s Wall Trail and following it until the turn-around at the Devil’s Chimney. On the way back down Cook’s Wall Trail we took a left onto the Magnolia Springs Trail, following it to a path on the deserted fishing side of the lake, crossing over the dam and back to the parking area. My plan was a success and after turning off the Hanging Rock Trail, we encountered maybe only a dozen other hikers the rest of the day.
The Family Tea -
Alex voluntarily opted to join us on this hike and our pace is always a step or two quicker with him along. That is mostly a good thing, as it definitely increases my heart rate and the exercise component of our hikes. And surprisingly, he did not once complain about the adult’s slow pace or about the multiple stops for pictures, gladly taking a few himself and even posing once or twice for us. WTH? Who is this smiling congenial child and where is my son? He also provides some comic relief with his witty and sometimes profound quips like his quote above, and I always enjoy when he tags along, not knowing how much longer a teenage boy will want to be seen in public with his dad.
In a sign of our age, Ginger was mostly excited about trying out her new transition glasses on our hike. She didn’t only like them, she loved them. Now of course I think I need to get a pair 🤔 And once again, Sophie had the energy of a dog half her age, as hiking always seems to bring out her inner sprightly spirit.
After a tough week, I was just happy to be outside in nature with an opportunity to clear my head. Cool, crisp air and physical activity always help me reset, to get out of my head and to refocus my attitude on gratitude. Hiking also helps me remember my many blessings and is a wonderful reminder of all the amazing things in this world and the many incredible people in my life.
Wrap It Up -
With the lack of crowds and the numerous scenic overlooks, Cook’s Wall Trail to Devil’s Tower is arguably the best trail in the Hanging Rock State Park and a top tier hike in North Carolina, especially during peak season but also anytime of the year. This trail is a must add to your list and I highly recommend it.
