Photos by Jon Show

Sept. 17. September is a magical time in the North Carolina mountains.

The leaves aren’t as vibrant as they will be in late October, but the crowds are much smaller, and the first signs of fall bring a hint of what’s to come.

If you’ve lived here a while, you probably have a list of favorite spots. If you’re new to the area — or new to hiking — here are a few quick day trips where you can take in the views and grab a bite to eat.

Stone’s Throw

A little more than an hour to the north, Stone Mountain State Park offers a scenic hike past a massive granite face and a waterfall on Big Sandy Creek.

For a tougher workout, start at the bottom and climb to the top on the loop trail, which circles back to the parking lot.

For an easier option, park at the top and head down. You’ll get amazing views early and finish at the waterfall.

About 20 minutes before the park on Route 21, Foothills Grocery & Deli is a must-stop.

For breakfast try the biscuits topped with your choice of meat — the country ham is a favorite.

If it’s lunchtime opt for the fried chicken, best enjoyed outside on your tailgate with Texas Pete.

Pro tip: They keep the hot sauce packets behind the counter. You have to ask.

App State

Roughly an hour and 45 minutes northwest, off the Blue Ridge Parkway, Rough Ridge offers a moderate hike with sweeping views of the Wilson Creek watershed and the southern tip of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

It’s popular on Instagram for its rocky outcropping two-thirds of the way up, so arrive early. The trail can be muddy after rain storms off Grandfather Mountain so leave the nice shoes at home.

If the parking lot is full, try nearby Beacon Heights, a short quarter-mile hike with similar views. On hot days, cool off in Boone Fork before heading back to town.

Back in downtown Blowing Rock we’re partial to The Speckled Trout and their signature trout dish prepared several ways. Our favorite sides include gouda grits, hoppin’ john and collards.

If pizza sounds good head to Bistro Roca and Antlers Bar, the oldest continuously serving bar in North Carolina.

Pro tip: Parking can be tight. Look for spots near the public pool or behind the town museum.

Bakers Dozen

Closer to home, Bakers Mountain Park near Hickory offers a 2.7-mile loop trail with rolling terrain.

For more of a challenge, head left from the back of the parking lot. The route features several climbs, including a steep one to the overlook, which has a gazebo and picnic tables. The return trip is a quick, easy downhill.

For an easier option, start right from the parking lot to reach the views faster.

Dining nearby is limited, but Local Roots & Provisions in downtown Lincolnton is worth the detour. The deviled eggs and pimento cheese are standouts.

If gas station food is more your speed (like us), stop at the mini mart across from East Lincoln Middle School on Route 73. The large yellow sign is no longer up but it used to tout the “Best Hot Dog in Town.”

Pro tip: Order it “all the way” — chili, slaw and onions. Trust us and not your eyes on this one.