Kings Mountain National Military Park is in Blacksburg, South Carolina, and Cowpens National Battlefield is in Gaffney, South Carolina. Just about 35 miles apart, both of these National Parks tell an impactful story replete with tragedy, triumph, and ultimately a changing tide that led to Cornwallis’ surrender at Yorktown. Moreover, each provides guests the chance to set out on foot to traverse the historic landscape.
Kings Mountain National Military Park
As the name implies, Kings Mountain National Military Park is on a mountain. The Battle of Kings Mountain was fought on October 7, 1780, and Thomas Jefferson called it “The turn of the tide of success.”
A truly unique battle in many ways, Kings Mountain was the first American victory after the British siege of Charleston in May of that year.
However, the most striking element to this writer was that it was fought entirely between Americans. The South was still quite divided between those in favor of independence and those loyal to the crown. As a result, this battle was particularly tragic, as neighbors and families fought one another.
Visiting Kings Mountain
A 25-minute film in the visitor center gives a fantastic overview of the battle and its complexities. Likewise, there is a museum filled with artifacts and audio exhibits that detail the events surrounding the battle.
However, it’s the trails we were there for, and they didn’t disappoint. We were traveling with our pug, so we set out on foot to explore the 1.5-mile loop trail. With a cellphone in hand, we followed along the path which winds its way to the top of the mountain, back down the mountain, and ends back at the visitor center.
Cellphone in hand, is operative, because there is a cellphone tour. At each stop, I’d dial the number, punch in the designated stop number, and we’d listen to the recording that provided us with information, highlights, and facts about the significance of the stop.
This was not only an informative self-guided tour, but it was also a scenic hike that we were able to break up with these historic pauses. There are parts of the trail that are steep, so on a couple of occasions, I was thrilled to have cause to stop and listen to the tour.
What I liked
I loved the pace of the self-guided tour and the insights I gained into what occurred on that fateful day. Additionally, it is a dog-friendly spot, as long as pets are leashed and owners clean up behind them. There were also a couple of costumed interpreters outside the visitor center who were happy to share facts and details, which was a pleasant surprise.
“When visiting Cowpens National Battlefield or Kings Mountain National Military Park, take your time with the self-guided tours. Pause at each interpretive sign, imagine the battles unfolding, and let the landscapes tell the story. Early morning or late afternoon offers softer lighting for photos, and fewer crowds giving you space to fully immerse yourself in history.”
Anna Marie
Cowpens National Battlefield
The Battle of Cowpens took place on January 17, 1781, in what was pasture land and became what today is defined as an impactful moment in the outcome of the war in the South. It’s also recognized as a phenomenal victory where Daniel Morgan and his army utilized a classic military tactic known as double envelopment to secure a patriot victory over General Banastre Tarleton.
Visiting Cowpens National Battlefield
In addition to a visitor center, guests can take to the trails and explore this important battlefield. Once again, with pug, husband, and my cell phone, we parked at the trailhead parking lot to begin our hike. Within the National Parks phone app, there is a map of the battlefield with numbered stops noted. At each stop, there is a detailed description delivering information about the location, the action that played out at that spot, or other such details that apply to the battle. Though not an audio tour, I was tasked with reading out loud, which was kind of fun too.
While this battlefield is on flatter terrain than Kings Mountain, it is still a 1.25-mile loop that offers a nice hike. There are 14 places on the walking tour, each of which provides a description. This was perfect for traveling at our own pace, and learning about the fighting that occurred here.
What I Liked
The terrain and setting are serene, yet many people walk the trail. This trail seems to be an important part of the community, as we appeared to be the only ones not there strictly to exercise, but actually taking the tour. Joggers, walkers, and folks just out with their dogs were taking advantage of the mild, sunny February morning. The flat ground and even footing make it the perfect spot for a variety of trail-takers.
Tips for Planning Your Visit
Kings Mountain National Battlefield and Cowpens National Battlefield are slightly under an hour away from each other. In theory, you could visit one in the morning and one in the afternoon. For our visit, we arrived at Kings Mountain in the early afternoon and spent a couple of hours following the self-guided tour. We then went on to our destination in Travelers Rest, SC.
On our return trip, we departed Travelers Rest for Cowpens. We spent about an hour and a half hiking the battlefield. Thus, our hikes were bookends to our getaway weekend. Point being, depending on what your plans are and objectives, both of these make great stand-alone itinerary items, or a fantastic full day’s adventure.
Whichever approach you take, keep in mind you’ll want comfortable shoes, a water bottle, and it’s a good idea to dress in layers.
Accommodations & Dining
Charlotte and Gastonia on the North Carolina side and Greenville, on the South Carolina side, offer big city accommodations and attractions if that appeals to you. If you’re more interested in keeping with the outdoor theme, there is camping and more rustic lodging nearby both locations.
We were seeking a peaceful rural escape and found a lovely Airbnb in Travelers Rest, SC, and fell in love with a local restaurant called Chicora Alley Fire House, and yes, it was pug-friendly!
America's 250th
Exploring battlefields may not be everyone’s cup of tea. However, as America’s 250th celebration progresses, it’s a wonderful time to add a brief visit to your itinerary. Both Kings Mountain and Cowpens are National Parks, which means there is a consistency of care and amenities.
Furthermore, it’s a budget-friendly way to incorporate a little celebration of America into your travel plans in 2026. Beyond that, hiking is a terrific form of exercise, and both of these battlefields provide visitors with foot-friendly walking tours that won’t overwhelm or completely exhaust, but will still furnish a respectable hike.
Ready to Start Planning Your Trip?
2026 promises a year full of America’s 250th celebrations and events. And no matter how large or small the trip, there is no better time to start planning than now.
If you’re looking for inspiration or ready to put it on the calendar, included below are a couple of helpful affiliate links to get you started.
Happy Birthday, America!
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