Rocky Face Mountain, a former rock quarry from the early 1900’s, is located in Alexander County and sits 600-feet above the surrounding countryside. It became a climbing location in the early 70’s and continues to grow and expand climbing routes to cater to any level of expertise. Enriched with wildlife and rare plant species, Rocky Face sure has a lot to see. If you’ve never experienced a real-life treasure hunt, then look no further than Rocky Face Mountain Recreational Area.
Have you always just assumed that the Brushy Mountains were the geological creation of John Boy & Billy? In fact, those mountains are quite real and quite lovely. Rocky Face Mountain in northern Alexander County near Hiddenite, located only 70 miles from our Charlotte location, is a great place to experience the Brushy Mountains. Rocky Face tops out 600-feet above the surrounding countryside and offers incredible views. The former quarry operation has held many uses since the early 1900’s. However, we believe it best serves as a hiking and climbing destination.
Living up to its name, the mountain offers lots of rocky exposure. Some of this exposure is suitable for top-rope climbing. In fact, the first reporting of climbing the historic park dates back to the 70’s. Climbing routes cater to all levels of expertise and are a constant work-in-progress. Not a climber? Not a problem. A good representation of Rocky Face can be found in the five miles of trail around. With a paved ADA walking trail, this destination an adventure for all. Enjoy a picnic while immersing in the scenery and being captivated by the rare species that call this mountain home.
It’s likely that all the fun won’t fit in just one day. For an extended stay, primitive campsites in the park are available for reservations. Enjoy a real-world treasure hunt, Geocaching, during your visit. The 19 traditional caches and two earth caches guarantees entertainment for hours. Additionally, events like the Vertical Mile Challenge, RockyFest, Rock Climbing Festival, and Run for the Dogs Trail Run drive traffic to the area throughout the year. It’s no surprise that this destination is featured on our list of 25 Top Hikes in the Charlotte Area. Don’t just take our word for it– experience it yourself!
Expert Picks
Bittu AliAn over-engineered kayak cart that will take anything you throw at it. From rough terrain to oddly shaped hulls to heavy pedal drive fishing yaks to being able to take it apart and stow inside your kayak -this cart is the absolute best available.
Raleigh
Bittu AliThis kayak is amazing -by far the most innovative fishing kayak today. Think of an e-Bike crossed with a Pedal Drive Fishing Kayak. Powered by Minn Kota technology, the propulsion system seamlessly integrates your preferred level of electric assist with human propulsion.
Raleigh
Rich ChisholmBinoculars are great, but most of the time I like just using this Zoom tube instead. It is lightweight, super clear, and is really easy to find what you are looking for.
Chapel Hill
Anna LawrenceThese are a go to through fall and winter! I just throw on socks when it gets colder. So comfortable!
Raleigh
Rich ChisholmWhen I needed a new super light family tent for a backpacking trip to the Tetons, this was the obvious choice. It has enough room and is super light and compact. During the trip, my family loved how easy it was to set up and I loved how easy it was to carry.
Chapel Hill
Rich ChisholmI just got these new shades and have been really impressed with how good they are for only $25. They don’t slip on my nose when I am running and are great for my commute on sunny days.
Chapel Hill
Bittu AliThe Jackson Knarr is more than a coastal Kayak Fishing machine, it also excels in any flatwater environment. The new Mark IV Flex Drive has been totally re-engineered, and the kayak has been stress-tested in some of the harshest environments and performed admirably.
Raleigh
Stewart KnightAn extremely well-designed bag. Easy to carry and stow with multiple large zippered pockets for separating gear. I’ve packed for a week in the Virgin Islands and a week in the Rockies with just this bag. It’s also good-looking luggage to boot!
Raleigh
Peyton HaleThe Freestone is the best bang for the buck of all Simms waders. The build quality and features are designed for long days on the water.
Raleigh
Stewart McLeanLove this wallet! It allows me to easily access my cards individually without having to take all of them out at once. It has every feature I wanted–slim profile, RFID protection and a money clip.
Raleigh
Amy QuinnI love my Arizonas so much, I find myself putting them on everyday when the weather’s warm. I may need another color…or 3! So comfortable!
Raleigh
Johanna BreedI love this pant! I’ve done everything with it from being on a plane for hours to hiking. I think the tapered cut is so flattering!
Chapel Hill
Rich ChisholmWith a brighter light and longer burn time than the nearest competition, I think it is the best value right now. This light is very durable and I can add a rechargeable battery pack in place of the AAA batteries if I want to later.
Chapel Hill
Rich ChisholmThis is a great carry-all bag for those little items you need but don’t have room in your pockets for. I like the over-built design even for something this small – will last practically forever. Detachable crossbody strap so it can convert to a belt bag is awesome!
Chapel Hill
StefkaA comfortable flowy pant, great for the office, traveling, and out on the town. And who doesn’t love an elastic waist and pockets?
Raleigh
Lisa ChisholmI really have enjoyed these trekking poles. They are light, and very easy to adjust in length. I always bring trekking poles along with me on trips now, and these are perfect for everything I do.
Chapel Hill
Alex WoodThese are super comfortable right out of the box, for a boot that’s so rugged and supportive. I’m using them for work, backpacking and hunting.
Raleigh
Lee QuinnThis is my ‘go-to’ bathing suit, but you can really do anything in them, which is great!
Raleigh
Amy QuinnThis boot is so comfortable out of the box. I really like how it keeps my ankle and heel secure and in place without feeling constricting. I also like that the sole isn’t super stiff like a lot of boots I’ve tried.
Raleigh
Additional Resources
Image credit: Rocky Face Park