Join Ranger Coburn at Gorges State Park to enjoy the night skies and learn more about those stars above us. There will be a brief talk about how astronomy began and basics to learning constellations. If skies are clear, I will bring out one of our telescopes to view some objects if possible. If weather is bad, Fear Not! there will still be a way to learn and explore space. Please bring warm clothes.
Events and Programs
976 Grassy Ridge Road
Sapphire, NC 28774
828-966-9099
gorges@ncparks.gov
GPS: 35.096000, -82.951000
General Park Hours
7am to 9pm
Picnic Areas
8am to 6:30pm
Visitor Center
Monday - Sunday
9am to 5pm
Partial Trail Closure - Auger Hole Trail
A section of the Auger Hole trail is closed to all traffic until further notice due to a massive landslide that has taken out all access not only to the public but to park staff.
The Auger Hole is open from the parking lot at Frozen Creek Entrance to where the Wintergreen trail breaks off Auger Hole Trail to the right. From that point on to Turkeypen Gap, the trail is closed and will remain closed until the trail is fixed.
The trail closure will be lengthy as park staff are evaluating and developing options to resolve the closure. For more information or updates call the park office at (828) 966-9099.
Last updated on: Thursday, May 9, 2019
Scheduled events
Gorges State Park offers a variety of learning opportunities for all ages. Typically led by park rangers, these interpretive programs allow the public to gain perspective into what makes North Carolina state parks naturally wonderful.
Most of the events are free, though some require pre-registration. All give park visitors deeper insight into the natural world. Call the park office for more information.
Date of Event:
Fri, 11/15/2019 - 6:00pm to 7:00pm
Start Location:
Visitor Center
Meet at Park's Visitor Center and join a Ranger for a Hike to Upper Bearwallow Falls. This will be a 2.4 mile hike. All participants must be prepared for cold temperatures and a strenuous hike. Bring food and water. Afterwards, enjoy hot chocolate and cookies, provided courtesy of the Friends of Gorges. No reservations needed!
Date of Event:
Wed, 01/01/2020 - 10:00am
Start Location:
Visitor Center
Bring the kids and meet at Bearwallow Picnic Area to join a Ranger for a Hike to Upper Bearwallow Falls. This will be a 0.8 mile hike. All participants must be prepared for cold temperatures and a strenuous hike. Bring food and water. Afterwards, enjoy hot chocolate, cookies and s'mores provided courtesy of the Friends of Gorges. No reservations needed!
Date of Event:
Wed, 01/01/2020 - 2:00pm
Start Location:
Bearwallow Picnic Area
Park Maps and Brochures:
