The South Mountains, carved out of the Blue Ridge by erosion, are a broad belt of peaks and knobs rising abruptly from a deep valley.

These steep, rugged mountains encompass 100,000 acres (404 km2) in Burke, Cleveland and Rutherford counties.

Legend holds that gold flakes and grains were first discovered in the mud used to seal a log cabin.

Water winding through the park to the Catawba River cuts deep into the terrain, forming rugged and steep slopes.

Open Daily (except Christmas Day) 7am Closing Hours (The main park gate will be locked overnight.)