Nestled within the scenic beauty of Surry County, North Carolina, lies the charming town of Pilot Mountain. Its name pays homage to the striking Pilot Mountain that graces its vicinity. Here, life unfolds at a leisurely pace, fostering close-knit connections among its residents.
If you’re contemplating a visit to this inviting town, you’re in for a treat. Discover an array of enticing experiences and must-visit destinations in Pilot Mountain, NC. Whether you seek adventure or tranquillity, our guide unveils the treasures that await you in this delightful city.
Don’t delay any longer—scroll down to embark on a journey of exploration and embrace the new adventures that Pilot Mountain has in store for you.
1. Climb the Pilot Mountain
To truly grasp the essence of Pilot Mountain, there’s no better vantage point than its namesake landmark. Embark on an adventure with your friends as you traverse the scenic trails of this magnificent geological wonder. Rest assured, there are multiple trails catering to hikers of various skill levels.
Immerse yourself in the embrace of nature, relishing the crisp, invigorating breeze as you ascend towards the pinnacle of Pilot Mountain. Your efforts will be handsomely rewarded with awe-inspiring vistas that encompass the charming towns below and even extend to the iconic Mount Airy.
If your timing aligns, you might be treated to the breathtaking spectacle of a sunset painting the sky from the summit of Pilot Mountain. Be sure to capture this unforgettable journey with your camera, as it’s an experience like no other.
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2. Exhilaration with Carolina Ziplines
Experience the lush forested slopes from a bird’s-eye perspective with an exciting afternoon of ziplining. Carolina Ziplines Canopy Tours boasts an impressive array of eleven zip lines, each offering varying heights and lengths, ensuring an adrenaline-pumping adventure through the treetops.
This exhilarating journey typically spans between one and a half to two hours, making it an ideal family activity. Even children over the age of three can partake in the tour, and rest easy knowing that all safety gear, including harnesses, gloves, and helmets, is readily provided.
Carolina Ziplines offers both customized tours and standard courses to suit your preferences. For those seeking a unique experience, don’t miss the Twilight Tour, where you can glide through the tranquil night skies adorned with a glowstick. It’s an adventure worth considering for a truly memorable outing.
3. Sip on Award-Winning Wines at JOLO Winery & Vineyards
For a truly rejuvenating getaway, don’t miss the opportunity to pamper yourself and savour precious moments with your dear ones. Take a break and immerse yourself in the picturesque splendour of JOLO Winery & Vineyards’ sprawling 80-acre estate, a showcase of Pilot Mountain’s magnificence and the serenity of Cox Lake.
Renowned as the premier winery in the Winston-Salem region, JOLO draws in around 400,000 globetrotters annually, all eager to sample their award-winning wines. If you’re yearning for a taste of world-class wines amidst a breathtaking backdrop, consider booking a wine-tasting experience at this esteemed winery for your group.
To ensure a seamless visit, remember to secure a reservation in advance before making your way to JOLO. And before bidding farewell to this idyllic retreat, be sure to pick up a bottle or two of your favourite wine from their shop, a delightful memento to share the JOLO experience with your loved ones back home.
4. Wine Tasting at Jolo Winery and Vineyards
Jolo Winery and Vineyards have earned a coveted spot among the top seven vineyards located outside of California, according to TripAdvisor ratings. This boutique winery offers a delightful opportunity to savour some of the finest wines in the country. If you’re in search of dining options in Pilot Mountain, North Carolina, be sure to secure a reservation at End Posts, the winery’s on-site restaurant. They serve delectable tapas lunches every Thursday through Sunday, ensuring a delicious culinary experience.
Perched amidst breathtaking mountainous scenery, this winery offers visitors the chance to relish their preferred wine varieties on an inviting outdoor patio with panoramic views. Additionally, you can engage in a game of Bocce Ball, a popular lawn sport enjoyed worldwide. For those who prefer a leisurely stroll, the vineyard boasts well-loved walking trails, providing yet another way to enjoy this picturesque location.
5. Shop ‘til You Drop at Mount Pilot Country Store
Shoppers seeking a delightful destination should consider a visit to the Mount Pilot Country Store. Whether you’re on the hunt for a special gift for a loved one or simply wish to find a unique item to bring home, this establishment offers an excellent opportunity. Enjoy a fun exploration of this two-story building as you peruse a wide range of items, including unusual toys for youngsters, home decor, and a variety of candies. The friendly staff is ready to assist you in locating your desired item, so don’t hesitate to ask for their assistance. After an enjoyable day of shopping, treat yourself to an ice cream cone before departing, adding a memorable finishing touch to your visit.
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6. Carolina Ziplines
Our family, consisting of our 7-year-old and 13-year-old boys, had an absolutely fantastic time. The location is incredibly beautiful, nestled in a picturesque valley alongside a charming river. The presence of goats, chickens, dogs, and even a donkey added to the charm – having animals around is always a bonus. Keith, the owner, possesses a wonderful and soothing demeanour when interacting with people. With his experience raising 11 children, he knows how to engage with kids and make everyone feel at ease. Aaron, our other guide, was equally delightful. We felt completely safe throughout the experience and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. It’s often challenging to find activities that both our boys can enjoy due to their 6-year age gap, but this choice turned out to be a winner!
7. Try the Yadkin Valley Surry Sonker Trail
Few things capture a region’s heritage as vividly as its cuisine, and if you have a fondness for sweets, the Surry Sonker Trail is a delectable journey you won’t want to miss. This enticing trail invites you to indulge in the rich culinary heritage of the area. At its heart is the Sonker, a deep-dish pie or cobbler that has its roots dating back to the 1800s. Sonker is a delightful fusion of cooked fruit and sweetened dough, a treasured recipe passed down through generations, with each Sonker having its own unique character. Along this trail, you’ll discover a delightful array of establishments, including bakeries, vineyards, a pub, a brewery, and a confectioner, each offering a taste of the region’s culinary legacy.
8. Take a Martial Arts Class at Armfield Civic & Recreational Center
For those committed to maintaining their fitness goals, the Armfield Civic & Recreational Center is an ideal destination. This centre provides a range of invigorating activities such as yogalates, yoga, Zumba, and spin classes, ensuring you stay active and work up a sweat. While participating, take the opportunity to connect with fellow attendees – you might even forge lasting friendships. If you fancy a refreshing swim, there’s a junior Olympic-size swimming pool available. Additionally, the centre boasts an activity room equipped with two Wii stations, a large-screen TV, café-style seating, a foosball table, and a rentable air hockey table for your entertainment.
For those interested in martial arts, the centre also offers classes in karate and jiu-jitsu, making it an inclusive destination for solo travellers or families alike.
9. Bregman’s Trail Riding And Stables
Experience the beauty of Pilot Mountain State Park with guided horseback rides courtesy of Bregman’s Trail Riding. Immerse yourself in the natural splendour as you traverse some of North Carolina’s finest trails. Even if you’re a novice rider, rest assured that you’ll receive a complimentary lesson to ensure your safety and confidence before embarking on your adventure. With over 25 years of expertise, our team of seasoned professionals will guide you on this unforgettable journey.
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10. Take a Trip to Mount Airy
A mere 14 miles away from Pilot Mountain, Mount Airy is a must-visit destination. This historic town traces its origins back to the 1700s and is most renowned as the iconic Mayberry from the 1960s Andy Griffith Show. If you’re a fan of Andy Griffith, you’re in for a treat at the museum, boasting the world’s largest collection of memorabilia dedicated to the show.
Mount Airy also goes by the moniker “Granite City” due to its claim as home to the largest open-cast granite quarry globally. To explore this and other local landmarks, consider hopping on a squad car tour departing from Wally’s Service Station, complete with blaring sirens. Your knowledgeable local guide will regale you with town trivia and insights. The tour is priced at $40 per carload and lasts approximately 30 minutes, leaving you ample time for some shopping as well.
11. Mount Pilot Country Store
At this charming country store, you’ll discover a delightful mix of new items, crafted treasures, and a sprinkling of antique finds. As a proud new aunt myself, I stumbled upon several wonderfully unique and adorable gifts for my precious niece. Don’t forget to carry your Christmas list along because you might just wrap up your entire holiday shopping spree right here.
12. Explore Farm Life at Horne Creek Farm
Make a pit stop at Horne Creek Farm for a captivating journey into farm life from over a century ago. The farm’s original 1900 family home still proudly stands, alongside the enduring tobacco curing barn and a trusty corn crib. As a bustling working farm, it’s home to a diverse array of livestock and poultry. Don’t miss the heritage apple orchard, where you’ll encounter apple varieties that have long faded from common circulation.
Horne Creek Farm regularly hosts engaging events, offering you the chance to try your hand at activities like scythe grass cutting or participating in a lively corn shucking event. The farm warmly welcomes visitors between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. from Tuesday to Saturday, and the best part is, that admission is completely free of charge.
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13. Blue Ridge Mountain Guides
If you’re a dedicated indoor rock climber and you’re itching to take on the challenge of natural rock formations, look no further than Pilot Mountain. Here, climbers of all skill levels, from beginners to experts, will find an exhilarating experience awaiting them. Whether you’re just embarking on this adventure or you’ve been scaling rocks for years, Pilot Mountain offers something for everyone.
This climbing destination is also family-friendly, so if you’re travelling with adventurous young ones eager to try this thrilling activity, bring them along for the ride. For those seeking expert guidance on their climbing journey, consider booking a guided course with Blue Ridge Mountain Guides. They specialize in providing climbing instructions and assistance for climbers ranging from novices to seasoned pros, ensuring that your experience is both safe and unforgettable.
14. Travel the Surry County Wine Trail
Set aside some leisurely hours to explore the Surry County Wine Trail. This well-structured trail map outlines journeys to over twenty wineries, a distillery, and four breweries nestled in the scenic Yadkin Valley. Embark on a delightful tour through the picturesque countryside while savouring the finest offerings this valley has to present.
If you’re on the hunt for dining options in Pilot Mountain, North Carolina, you’ll discover a plethora of delectable cuisine in the vicinity. Most of the featured vineyards on the trail also boast restaurants or offer delightful snacks. Each establishment presents its own unique charm, whether it’s cozy firepits, breathtaking scenic vistas, live musical performances, or, naturally, their award-winning wines.
15. Ridge Mountain Guides
If you’re a passionate gym climber and have been itching to make the leap to natural rock, Pilot Mountain offers an excellent starting point. Climbing at Pilot Mountain caters to a wide range of skill levels, from beginners to experts, ensuring an enjoyable experience whether you’re just starting out or have years of climbing under your belt.
What’s more, this adventure is family-friendly, making it a fantastic option if you’re travelling with adventurous youngsters eager to partake in this thrilling activity. And for those seeking expert guidance on this journey, consider booking a guided course with Blue Ridge Mountain Guides. They specialize in providing climbing instructions and mentorship, catering to climbers from novice to seasoned pros, and guaranteeing an unforgettable and safe experience for all.
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16. Enjoy The Art of Massage
In search of some well-deserved relaxation? Look no further than The Art of Massage, conveniently located within the cosy ambience of the Living Room Coffeehouse and Wine Bar. Reserve your spot for a rejuvenating aromatherapy or massage session that will leave you feeling refreshed and invigorated. After indulging in a deep muscle massage, treat yourself to a sumptuous meal at the farm-to-table restaurant.
For the ultimate in relaxation, consider booking one of the luxurious Wellness Center suites, where you can immerse yourself in a couple of days filled with massages and pampering, ensuring a truly rejuvenating experience.
17. Showoff Your Skills at Pilot Knob Park Country Club
Looking to tee off and have a fantastic time with your friends? Look no further than the Pilot Knob Park Country Club, where you can enjoy a round of golf at one of the most picturesque and meticulously maintained courses in the Piedmont region. This golf course is cherished by both the local community and visitors from around the world, making it a must-visit destination whenever you find yourself in Pilot Mountain.
After an exhilarating day on the greens, you can unwind and savour a meal with your loved ones at their on-site restaurant. For information on rates and reservations, you can conveniently visit their website.
18. Pilot Mountain Vineyards and Winery
At Pilot Mountain Vineyards and Winery, no advance reservations are necessary for your visit. The hospitable owners extend a warm welcome to guests from 12:30 pm to 5 pm on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. On Sundays throughout the year, you can delight in live music as an added treat.
Feel free to bring along a picnic basket or stock up on delectable provisions like cheese, sausage, crackers, hummus, and guacamole. Lounge on the patio with a glass of their finest wine, all while relishing the breathtaking vista of the vineyards set against the picturesque backdrop of Pilot Mountain.
For those who wish to prolong their stay, the vineyard offers a luxurious suite for overnight accommodations. As an added bonus, you’ll have exclusive access to the swimming pool, so don’t forget to pack your swimsuit for a truly indulgent experience.
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19. Grab a Beer at Sportsman’s Lounge
Indulging in a nightcap is a delightful way to cap off your day, and if your ideal evening involves savouring a cold beer while catching a sports game, then the Sportsman’s Lounge is a perfect destination. Whether you’re a solo traveller or in the company of friends, this establishment offers a welcoming atmosphere.
For those seeking a more laid-back setting, the back deck provides a serene space where you can savour your drink and simply unwind. If you’re journeying solo and prefer a seat at the bar, rest assured that there’s ample room available, thanks to their spacious bar area. Cheers to a relaxing evening at the Sportsman’s Lounge!
20. Go on a Camping Trip at Jessup Mill
If you’re planning a family camping adventure, consider heading to Jessup Mill, a convenient less-than-25-minute drive from Pilot Mountain. Jessup Mill offers inviting tent and hammock camping sites situated on a lush, grassy lawn. The tent sites are thoughtfully shaded, ensuring your family’s comfort regardless of the weather conditions.
Gather your loved ones around the fire pits for a delightful session of roasting S’mores and creating lasting memories. Worried about firewood? No need to be, as they provide it for your convenience. Additionally, a few electrical outlets are available on-site to ensure your gadgets stay charged and ready for your outdoor escapades.
