When thinking about the Tar Heel State and its geography, we’re often drawn to that which is most visible like the Blue Ridge Mountains, the coast, and even natural landmarks like Chimney Rock and Pilot Mountain. But did you ever stop to think about the geographic center of North Carolina?

While some schools of thought place the geographic center of North Carolina in the tiny town of Star in Montgomery County, others place it approximately 20 miles north, in Asheboro.
Google Maps
(In fact, both spots may be accurate, depending upon whether you're measuring the center of the state from north to south or east to west.)
The alternate opinion to placing it in the town of Star pinpoints the center of the state on the summit of a peak in the Uwharrie Mountains. The peak, called Purgatory Mountain, rises to somewhere in the neighborhood of 1,000 feet above sea level.
Wes Adams/AllTrails
No one really knows when — or how — Purgatory Mountain got its name.
Google Maps
Some place the moniker as starting during the Civil War when war objectors hid out on the mountain. Others believe it's due to the number of moonshiners who set up shop on Purgatory during Prohibition. Still, others tie the name to the Purgatory. Whatever the origin, reaching Purgatory is an easy hike from a trailhead within the North Carolina Zoo.
If you're at all curious about how it feels to spend a little time on Purgatory Mountain, then you'll find the trailhead easily accessible from the north end of the North America parking lot at the North Carolina Zoo.
Rob Ainbinder/Google Reviews

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From the start to where the trail ends, it's approximately one mile on a mostly flat trail that has an elevation gain of about 180 feet.
Nicole Tyler/AllTrails
In warm weather months, you'll want to be sure to bring plenty of water on this hike... as it can get mighty hot on top of Purgatory Mountain in NC.
You'll know when you've reached the center of the state (and the summit of Purgatory) when you see the zoo's signs signaling you've reached the end of the trail.
Wes Adams/AllTrails
In some cultures, reaching the end of the trail at Purgatory Mountain could mean it's time to sit and contemplate if you're living your best life and if you need to make any changes — while you're still here. Fortunately, Purgatory Mountain has plenty of thinking rocks to sit on and do just that.
Roger King/Google Reviews
Today, the summit at Purgatory Mountain is a jumble of big boulders on which to sit and think. However, at the summit, you'll find a sign with a little about the history of Purgatory Mountain and some plans for the future, including a planned wooden observation tower taller than the trees. With the additions, perhaps Purgatory will have more visitors.
Tim Scott/Google Reviews


Let's explore Purgatory Mountain in Ashburo, NC in this video from A Traveling Addict as they hike to the geographical center of North Carolina:

Purgatory Mountain is accessible via the Purgatory Trail at the north end of the North America parking lot at the North Carolina Zoo. It’s perfect for year-round hiking, with more long-range visibility from the summit during the winter months. If hiking in the summer, remember to bring plenty of water. Learn more about the trail from our friends at AllTrails. If you want more in-depth trail information, consider signing up for AllTrails+.

Have you ever wondered about the geographic center of North Carolina and have you ever visited Purgatory Mountain while at the North Carolina Zoo? Share your favorite experiences with us in a comment.

Keep reading for even more reasons to visit the North Carolina Zoo!

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More to Explore

More hiking trails in North Carolina

Chris Muras | July 19, 2023

What are some interesting hikes in North Carolina?

Whether you are up for a long day hike or a quick stroll to a waterfall, North Carolina has an abundance of fun hiking trails. Here are some interesting hikes in North Carolina for your next adventure:

  • Looking Glass Rock Trail, Brevard, NC: The Pisgah National Forest is a picturesque spot that will treat you to some incredible hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains. As you hike Looking Glass Rock Trail you'll enjoy lush forest and mountain views as far as the eye can see. It's a moderately difficult trail about 5.7 miles in length.
  • Linville Falls Trail, Newland, NC: This short and easy trail is no less fun because of its 0.9-mile distance. You can easily spend an hour or more enjoying Upper Linville Falls and exploring the Linville Gorge. The area is especially pretty in the fall when a backstop of colorful deciduous trees highlights the falls and its pool of cool water surrounded by rocky terrain.
  • Dry Falls Trail, Highlands, NC: At just under a half mile in length this easy trail is one of our favorites because of the rapidly flowing waterfall. Unlike its name, Dry Falls is rewardingly wet and exciting. You can even walk behind the falls for an otherworldly experience.
  • Shining Creek Path, Pisgah National Forest, NC: If you are up for a more challenging hike, take the Shining Creek Path to the Little East Fork Trail. It is a 17-mile hike with amazing views, terrain, and opportunities to enjoy nature. Parts of the trail are definitely harder than your average hike, but the views are well worth it.

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Featured Addresses
Purgatory Mountain, 4401 Zoo Pkwy, Asheboro, NC 27205, USA