Are you ready for an evening saunter on a mountain top? Drive up to Mt. Jefferson State Natural Area and prepare for one-mile hike along a rocky ridgeline. We will hike out to beautiful Luther Rock to do a little star gazing and vista viewing. You will need to bring a small flashlight and wear sturdy shoes. Parts of this hike are considered strenuous and hiking at night can be physically challenging. This program is designed for adults with good basic hiking skill. Children over 12 are welcome but must be closely supervised. Call to sign up (336) 246-9653.
Events and Programs
Park Maps and Brochures:
Vehicles May Drive to First Overlook
Park road is open to vehicles only up to first (sunset) overlook. All trails are open and covered with deep snow.
Last updated on: Wednesday, December 12, 2018 Restroom Closure
11/29/2018 - The restrooms at the Summit Picnic Area are closed for the winter season. The ADA restroom at the park office remains open.
Last updated on: Thursday, December 6, 2018Events and Programs
Mount Jefferson State Natural Area 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, 12/14/2018 - 6:00pm
Start Location:
First Overlook
The winter solstice is the longest night of the year. Join us around the fire ring for an evening of stories and science as we take note of this ancient annual event. Bring a hat, coat, gloves, a chair, and your
Date of Event:
Fri, 12/21/2018 - 5:00pm to 5:45pm
Start Location:
First Overlook (Around the fire)
Take some time this holiday to enjoy the natural beauty of the Appalachian Mountains. Meet the park ranger for a one-mile hike through winter forest and enjoy some of Luther rocks spectacular views. The Appalachian winter winds are calling, bring a hat, coat, gloves.
Date of Event:
Wed, 12/26/2018 - 2:00pm to 3:30pm
Start Location:
Picnic Area
Meet at the picnic area for an exhilarating New Year’s Day saunter 4683 feet above sea-level. Our First Day Hikers will venture onto the ridgeline looking for the park’s most breathtaking views. On this New Year's Day we will watch the horizon as nature fill our senses with wonder and exhilaration.
See you on top of the mountain! This walk will be a little more than one-mile round trip.
Parts of this hike are considered to be strenuous.
Date of Event:
Tue, 01/01/2019 - 2:00pm
Start Location:
Picnic Area
Meet the ranger for a Spring hike along a short easy section of the park’s newest trail. As we hike we will watch for signs of spring and then turn-around at an amphibolite/quarts rock outcrop. This will be a 1/2 mile hike total distance. Bring a jacket and closed-toe shoes.
Date of Event:
Sat, 05/04/2019 - 2:00pm
Start Location:
2nd Overlook (Sunrise Overlook)
Contact:
Mount Jefferson State Natural Area
1481 Mt Jefferson State Park Rd
West Jefferson, NC 28694Phone336-246-9653
mount.jefferson@ncparks.gov
Latitude: 36.393564
Longitude: -81.468012
8am - sunset
Closed Christmas Day
Park Office
8am - 5pm weekdays
Closed state holidays