“Naturally wonderful” — these are the words used to describe the vast North Carolina State Parks system. Lake Norman State Park, located in Troutman, is no exception. A short drive from the Hickory area, Lake Norman State Park is a great day trip and an opportunity to get outside of your normal routine with canoeing, biking, hiking and more. As the weather cools, there is still plenty of fun to be had in the great outdoors of Lake Norman.
Your day can begin at the beautiful Visitors Center where the helpful staff offers consultation on the best hikes or trails for your family’s experience and ability. Since we have younger children, we started with a hike on the paved Dragonfly trail. We were able to stop to interact with various panels that introduced us to some of the ingenious plants and animals of the area. From Dragonfly, the .8 mile Alder trail was just right for venturing into the woods, with stops for serene lake views and a few critters along the way. The round-trip brought us back to the Visitors’ Center, where a novelty ice cream from the gift store and a quick trip to the clean, climate-controlled bathrooms were a must. The gift store also had cute souvenir shirts, maps and a few camping necessities.
If biking is your family’s passion, the Itusi Trail consists of 30.5 miles of bike trails, comprised of various loops which range in difficulty from easy to moderate (only Laurel loop is considered moderate). During the summer, don't miss an opportunity to enjoy the park's 125-yard-long sand beach (open April - October). In cool weather months, or anytime year-round, rent canoes, kayaks, paddleboats, and paddleboards for $5 at the visitor center or go fishing at one of the park's choice spots. The parks system also offers guided hikes and other educational programs; check the website for more details.
As leaves begin to turn, a walk or bike-ride through the changing seasons may be just what you need to reconnect with one another and the world around you. Be sure to get outside and continue to soak up the beauty of the Carolinas!
Lake Norman State Park is located at 759 State Park Road in Troutman, NC. Park hours are 7am-8pm Sept & Oct, 7am-6pm Nov-Feb, 7am - 8pm Mar-Apr, and 7am - 9pm May-Aug. For more information, visit www.ncparks.gov/lake-norman-state-park or call 704-528-6350.
