Moses H. Cone Memorial Park is located in North Carolina’s beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. This 3,500-acre park, located just outside of Boone, NC, provides visitors with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape as well as a variety of outdoor activities. The park, named after textile magnate Moses H. Cone, is a popular destination for hikers, cyclists, and nature lovers of all kinds.
Moses H. Cone was born in Jonesborough, Tennessee in 1857. He began his textile career working for his uncle’s company before starting his own in Baltimore, Maryland. Cone’s textile empire grew to include mills in a number of southern states, including North Carolina. Cone and his wife, Bertha, began spending their summers in North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains in the late 1800s. They created Flat Top Manor, which now serves as the centerpiece of Moses H. Cone Memorial Park.
Flat Top Manor is a stunning 20-room mansion built in 1901. The house has a unique design that combines Colonial Revival and Arts and Crafts styles, and it is surrounded by well-kept gardens and landscaping. Visitors to the park can take a guided tour of the house, which provides insight into the Cones’ and their family’s lives.
But Moses H. Cone Memorial Park is much more than just the manor house. The park has a network of hiking trails that provide spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The Rich Mountain Trail, a moderate 5.5-mile loop that takes hikers through forests, meadows, and along ridge lines, is one of the most popular hikes. Hikers can enjoy views of the Blue Ridge Parkway and Grandfather Mountain along the way.
The Flat Top Trail, a 4.5-mile round-trip hike that takes visitors to the summit of Flat Top Mountain, is another popular trail. Although the trail is moderate to strenuous, the views from the top are well worth the effort. Hikers can see for miles in all directions on clear days, taking in the sweeping vistas of the surrounding landscape.
Moses H. Cone Memorial Park is a popular destination for cyclists in addition to hikers. The carriage roads in the park, which were originally built to transport visitors to and from Flat Top Manor, are now used by cyclists and hikers alike. The roads provide a one-of-a-kind and scenic cycling experience, with gently rolling hills and breathtaking views at every turn.
Moses H. Cone Memorial Park also provides picnic areas, fishing opportunities, and opportunities to simply relax and enjoy the natural surroundings for those who prefer a more leisurely visit. Visitors can also visit the park’s historic sites, such as Flat Top Manor and the nearby Moses Cone Cemetery.
Overall, Moses H. Cone Memorial Park is a one-of-a-kind destination in the Blue Ridge Mountains. With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and outdoor recreation opportunities, it’s a must-see for anyone visiting the area. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a seasoned cyclist, or simply looking for a peaceful place to relax and unwind, Moses H. Cone Memorial Park has something for everyone.
