Pilot Mountain State Park in North Carolina

I returned to Pilot Mountain State Park in North Carolina to actually hike it this time—after once driving to the overlook during my digital nomad stint and barely remembering it.

I took the Pilot Mountain route via the Grindstone, Little Pinnacle, and Pilot Knob trails (yes, a mouthful). It’s a 7.5-mile hike with about 1,400 feet of elevation gain, starting at the visitor center and climbing toward the same upper parking area I visited years ago. Driving is an option, but I wanted the challenge.

On a Sunday morning the parking lot wasn’t packed. The trail begins gently, passes a campground about a mile in, and then steadily gains elevation. I saw a few groups, but there were long, quiet stretches to enjoy. Eventually, I reached the familiar overlooks I’d once driven to. But seeing them after the climb made the views feel so much richer this time around. It’s funny how a little extra effort can turn the same scenery into a whole new experience.

The descent from Pilot Mountain State Park was a breeze - mostly downhill and quick. I considered the 25-minute drive to Winston-Salem for groceries, but I was wiped and headed back to the cabin instead. Honestly, these are my favorite days: stay active for half the day, then unwind at home for a quiet evening.