High Shoals North CarolinaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near High Shoals, North Carolina.
1. Dean Black Memorial Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION SPACE
Dean Black Memorial Park in High Shoals offers a lighted ball field, paved walking trail, covered pavilion, and playground for community recreation. The park serves as a central gathering place for local events, including the upcoming Concert in the Park scheduled for May 24, 2025. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities in this well-maintained public space that caters to families and sports enthusiasts alike.
2. Bridge at High Shoals
HISTORIC TRUSS STRUCTURE
The Bridge at High Shoals is a photogenic old truss bridge that attracts visitors looking to capture the charm of this historic structure. Visitors enjoy taking pictures of this landmark which serves as a reminder of the area's industrial past. The bridge area also provides access for launching paddle boats to explore the nearby ruins of the iron works.
3. Robinson Catfish Lake
FAMILY FISHING SPOT
Robinson Catfish Lake is a small lake stocked with various fish species, particularly catfish, creating an ideal spot for recreational fishing. This peaceful lakeside destination serves as a meeting place where family and friends gather to enjoy the outdoors while trying to make a big catch. The lake's accessible shoreline and stocked waters make it suitable for anglers of all experience levels.
4. South Fork Rail Trail
SCENIC RIVERSIDE PATH
The South Fork Rail Trail is a 1.8-mile one-way trail that runs along the South Fork of the Catawba River within the 324-acre Rhyne Preserve. The trail features natural surface and crushed gravel paths, making it perfect for light hikes or mountain bike rides through protected conservation land. The surrounding area is preserved by the Catawba Lands Conservancy, ensuring the natural beauty remains intact for future generations.
5. High Shoals Falls
SPECTACULAR 60-FOOT WATERFALL
High Shoals Falls is a magnificent 60-foot waterfall located in South Mountains State Park, offering one of the most scenic hiking experiences in western North Carolina. Visitors can choose between a two-mile round trip directly to the falls or a more challenging 2.7-mile loop that includes stair climbing and additional views. The observation deck positioned right beside the waterfall provides spectacular views, particularly impressive after rainfall when the water volume increases.
6. Marcia H. Cloninger Rail Trail
POPULAR WALKING PATH
The Marcia H. Cloninger Rail Trail is a highly-rated walking path near High Shoals that has earned a 4.6/5 rating from visitors. This converted railway corridor provides a flat, accessible route for walking, running, and cycling through scenic surroundings. The trail connects various parts of the community while preserving the historical significance of the former rail line.
7. Southern Charm Winery
LOCAL WINE TASTING
Southern Charm Winery is a highly-rated local winery with an impressive 4.8/5 visitor rating, located a short drive from High Shoals. The winery offers tastings of their house-made wines in a charming setting that embodies southern hospitality. Visitors can enjoy sampling various wine styles while learning about the local winemaking process from knowledgeable staff.
8. Gallery 27
FINE ART EXHIBITION
Gallery 27 is a highly-regarded art gallery near High Shoals that has earned an exceptional 4.9/5 rating from visitors. The gallery showcases works from local and regional artists, featuring rotating exhibitions across various mediums and styles. Art enthusiasts can explore contemporary and traditional pieces while engaging with the vibrant local arts community.
9. Gaston County Museum
LOCAL HISTORY SHOWCASE
The Gaston County Museum preserves and presents the rich cultural heritage of Gaston County, including High Shoals and surrounding communities. Exhibits feature historical artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that tell the story of the region's development from early settlement through industrialization. Visitors can gain insight into local textile history, daily life in different eras, and the social changes that have shaped the county.
10. South Mountains State Park
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE DESTINATION
South Mountains State Park encompasses 20,000 acres of rugged terrain featuring hiking trails, waterfalls, and diverse ecosystems near High Shoals. The park offers extensive recreational opportunities including camping, fishing, horseback riding, and mountain biking across its varied landscape. Visitors can explore the park's numerous trails that wind through forests, along streams, and to scenic overlooks providing panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
11. Just Around The Corner
CHARMING LOCAL SHOP
Just Around The Corner is a beloved local shop near High Shoals with a strong 4.7/5 visitor rating. The store offers a carefully curated selection of gifts, home decor, and locally made products that showcase regional craftsmanship. Shoppers can discover unique items while enjoying the warm, welcoming atmosphere that has made this shop a community favorite.
12. Jacob Fork River
SCENIC WATER RECREATION
The Jacob Fork River flows through South Mountains State Park, offering scenic views and opportunities for water-based recreation near High Shoals. Visitors can enjoy fishing, wading, and nature photography along the cascading waterway that features clear mountain water flowing over rocky beds. The river's banks are lined with lush vegetation and provide habitat for diverse wildlife, making it an excellent spot for nature observation.
13. Hemlock Nature Trail
RIVERSIDE WOODLAND PATH
The Hemlock Nature Trail is a scenic path that runs along the river in South Mountains State Park, highly recommended by visitors to the High Shoals area. This trail offers a more gentle walking experience compared to the steeper waterfall trails, making it accessible to a wider range of hikers. The path winds through hemlock groves and riverside ecosystems, providing opportunities to observe native plants and aquatic wildlife in their natural setting.
14. South Mountains Campground
OVERNIGHT WILDERNESS EXPERIENCE
The South Mountains Campground provides overnight accommodations for visitors exploring the High Shoals Falls area and surrounding attractions. Located near the Jacob Fork parking area, this campground offers convenient access to the park's trail system and natural features. Campers can enjoy well-maintained sites with basic amenities while immersing themselves in the peaceful mountain environment.
15. Rhyne Preserve
PROTECTED CONSERVATION LAND
The Rhyne Preserve is a 324-acre protected natural area maintained by the Catawba Lands Conservancy near High Shoals. This conservation land contains the South Fork Rail Trail and preserves important habitat along the South Fork of the Catawba River. Visitors can experience the natural beauty of the region while learning about local conservation efforts to protect watersheds and ecosystems.