Short Picture Stories from Noble Coast Photography: Park It in North Carolina

Wednesday, December 12, 2012

Park It in North Carolina

The South Mountains is an isolated mountain range that rises up along the upper Piedmont in south western North Carolina. These rugged mountains were once the dividing line that separated the Cherokee and Catawba Indian tribes. Early European settlers hunted inside the thick forests of the South Mountains while farming the nearby fertile lands along the Catawba River. In 1828 gold was discovered at Brindle Creek and was mined in the area through the early 20th century.

Today, this mountainous area is home to the 18,000 acre South Mountains State Park. With elevations up to 3000 feet, South Mountains Park contains over 40 miles of trails. Equestrian and family camp grounds dot the trails along with private picnic areas. Horse back riding, trout fishing along the Jacob Forks River, back packing to one of the many back country campsites, and mountain bike riding are just some of the activities found in the park. A popular hike brings you to the magnificent 80 foot High Shoal Falls. A short drive from Charlotte, South Mountains State Park is another of North Carolina's natural treasures.