North Carolina Real Estate & Relocation Guide

Pilot Mountain, North Carolina

Population: 1,281

Located in Surry County

Pilot Mountain is situated 32 miles from the Blue Ridge. It rises sheer more than 2,700 feet above sea and 1,500 feet above the surrounding Piedmont country. Pilot Mountain is nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains and is only a short 15-mile drive to the Blue Ridge Parkway. Approach from any direction and see Pilot Mountain rising more than 1,400 feet above the rolling countryside of the upper Piedmont plateau.

Dedicated as a National Natural Landmark in 1976, this solitary peak is the centerpiece of Pilot Mountain State Park. Fun, from relaxation to exhilaration, is easy to find here. Treat yourself to a horseback ride through the woods or challenge the river from a raft or canoe. A six-mile woodland corridor joins two sections of the park, each section offering a wealth of opportunities for outdoor fun. The mountain segment, which includes the two pinnacles, contains most of the visitor facilities. The more primitive river section centers around the lazy, meandering Yadkin River.

The Yadkin Valley, including Pilot Mountain, is becoming a popular spot for vineyards and wineries. The Shelton Vineyards, established in 2000, stimulated the wine industry with the opening of the largest estate winery in North Carolina. More recently, the Old North State Winery, owned by a cooperative of 38 family farmers.

Also near Pilot Mountain and off the Blue Ridge Parkway is Levering Orchard a pick-your-own-cherry orchard. You can still catch a movie on the big screen at Mount Airy's Bright Leaf Drive-In located on the Andy Griffith Parkway or Highway 52 North. The Bright Leaf is one of 500 drive-ins remaining in the United States.

Spring, summer, and fall are all times for local festivals. While here, you may enjoy one of the many Bluegrass festivals or town fairs featuring antiques, local crafts, and flea markets.