Lake Norman is the largest man-made lake in North Carolina. The state park is on its northern shore. Park activities include hiking, biking, boating, fishing, picnicking and swimming. It boasts more than 30 miles of hiking and biking trails.
Lake Shore Loop Trail follows the shoreline of the park’s southernmost peninsula. This loop is a 5-mile moderate hike. For visitors looking for a shorter route, there is a Short Turn Trail which creates a 3-mile loop. White diamonds blaze the main loop, and the short cut has red diamond blazes. This dirt loop trail has a relatively smooth terrain although there are some extended areas with steady climbs or obstacles like tree roots.
Lake Shore Trail
The trailhead and parking area are off Shortleaf Drive. There are tons of picnic tables here to rest and enjoy nice days with family and friends.
Visitors can start the trail on either side of the road since it is a loop. I took the path on the same side of the road as the information sign and followed it counterclockwise around the loop. Each blaze is numbered and going this direction starts at 1 and ends with blaze 227.
Lake Norman Views
This section of the Lake Shore Trail has the best views of Lake Norman. The first views from the path are stunning. I love the reflections in the water, especially the twin trees with white trunks!
At marker 16, cross the first of a handful of bridges on the loop.
A mile into the hike, around marker 33, the trail passes through the southernmost point of the peninsula. The views are beautiful with bright orange ‘beaches’ and sparkling blue water. Hundreds of tiny seashells littered the ground.
Marker 38 turns to the left to continue the loop. You can also go straight to get closer to the water again, but this only leads to a small beach area, and you will have to double-back. After this point, the path meanders along Hicks Creek to your right.
There is a large u-shaped bend on the trail around an inlet at marker 64. It was a pretty spot to rest for a second and appreciate your surroundings.
Periodically, there are posts with a small mileage sign attached to give you an idea of your progress.
Marker 87 offers a gorgeous view of the lake! This was one of my favorite parts of the hike. We stopped for a snack and relaxed in the shade of the trees.
Just after marker 111, turn left to continue on the trail. Around marker 115 is another lovely sight. If the sun hits just right, you get a splendid mix of colors in the water.
Short Turn Trail Junction
Two and a half miles into the hike (marker 123), the junction with the Short Turn Trail will be on your left. If you want a shorter hike, take the left back toward the trailhead. For the full loop, continue straight.
Just before hitting three miles, at marker 136, you will find your first of three road crossings – Boat Launch Drive. This is a perfect stopping point; there is a restroom with running water by the parking lot.
Around marker 168 is your last big opening to the water. There is a small strip of beach set down off the trail.
Into the Woods
The trail starts to head uphill and into the woods on a series of switchbacks. This will be the last look at Hicks Creek.
At marker 178 you’ll arrive at a split in the trail. The trail straight/slightly right leads to a campground. Veer left to stay on the Lake Shore Trail.
At four miles (marker 190), you will cross State Park Road.
A little beyond 4.5 miles (marker 219), you will cross State Park Road again just before the turn to Shortleaf Drive. You’re almost there! A short walk through the woods and you’ll find yourself directly across from the trailhead again.
I highly recommend this trail. If you find the length or elevation of the trail daunting, the Short Turn Trail gives you all the best views of the loop on an easier route. Make sure to enjoy on a sunny day to get the full effect of the colors in the water!
A very similar trail in South Carolina is the Lakeview Loop Trail in Hickory Knob State Park. Check out other state parks for more hiking ideas.
Beautiful lake colors. Short and long hike options are great depending on the length of time you have that day. We’re going to check this out. Looks like great areas to set up for plein air painting ?
Thanks! There are several spots that would be perfect for plein air painting 🙂