Established in 1938, the park invites visitors to immerse themselves in a unique blend of geological beauty, peaceful woodlands, and year-round outdoor recreation.

A Winter Wonderland Visit

On a recent winter trip with my parents, we arrived to find a tranquil landscape blanketed in snow. The trails were icy and slippery, turning our hike into a magical, if somewhat challenging, adventure. If you’re planning a winter visit, check out our related post on how to stay safe while traveling abroad — many of those tips apply here, too!

The Majestic Pinnacle Rock

Rising dramatically above the Appalachian hills, Pinnacle Rock offers panoramic views that make the climb worthwhile—if you’re properly equipped. During winter, the steps leading to the overlook can be icy or even broken in places. We advise wearing sturdy hiking boots like the Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Boots for traction and warmth. For trail updates and reviews, check out TripAdvisor’s Pinnacle Rock page.

Hiking, Picnicking & Fishing

The park features 6+ miles of hiking trails, each offering varying degrees of difficulty. In winter, these paths become a quiet escape for those looking to connect with nature—but do tread carefully. Want to turn your hike into a full-day outing? The picnic areas—complete with tables and grills—are ideal for winter gatherings. The stone fireplace shelter is perfect for warming up with hot cocoa and chili. Bring along a portable camp stove or a thermos food jar to enjoy a hot meal trailside. Nearby, Jimmy Lewis Lake is stocked with trout and offers peaceful winter fishing. For gear suggestions, check out our post on essential outdoor tools for winter adventurers.

Winter Hiking Safety Tips

Our trip reminded us how important it is to prep for cold-weather treks. Here are key takeaways:

• Footwear: Waterproof boots with good traction are a must. We recommend Yaktrax Walk Traction Cleats to improve grip on icy trails.

• Layered Clothing: Use a base layer, insulating layer, and waterproof shell to stay warm and dry. •

• Essentials Checklist:

  • Navigation tools (map + compass)

  • Headlamp or flashlight

  • First-aid kit

  • Extra snacks and water

  • Fire-starting tools (like stormproof matches)

  • Emergency blanket or bivvy

• Weather Awareness: Mercer County winters are unpredictable. Check today’s weather before heading out.

• Trail Conditions: Snow and ice can cover trail markers. Use the AllTrails app for real-time maps and navigation. For more on cold-weather prep, read our blog: Winter Hiking Safety: What You Need to Know.

A Winter Escape Worth the Trip

Even in winter, Pinnacle Rock State Park offers something special: peaceful trails, stunning overlooks, and the kind of quiet that only snow-draped forests can provide. Whether you’re photographing snow-covered trees, sharing a picnic with loved ones, or casting a line into a frosty lake, it's a place that invites stillness—and rewards preparation. So bundle up, grab your trekking poles, and let the cold be part of the adventure.

Check out the video we created there: