Upcoming Events

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Past Events

NC Sunshine Pageants and Friends of the Fonta Flora State Trail invite you to a one-of-a-kind hiking experience!

Join us on the Burke County Fonta Flora Loop on March 22nd for a fun and scenic adventure alongside fellow queens, past titleholders, outdoor enthusiasts, literally anyone and EVERYONE!

This hike is more than just a walk in the woods—it’s a celebration of strength, resilience, and the trailblazing women who inspire us! As we explore the beautiful Fonta Flora Trail, we’ll honor Women’s History Month and the power of women in leadership, community, and adventure.

Dress to impress — trail style! We encourage participants to wear their crowns, sashes, and even their pageant gowns (but leave the heels at home! ). Get ready for stunning photo ops, great company, and a refreshing outdoor experience.

All are welcome - this is a family friendly, all levels hike

Questions? Reach Jessica at info@fontaflorastatetrail.com

Giving Back: In honor of Women’s History Month, we’re also collecting feminine hygiene products to support the Menstrual Movement in Morganton. If you’re able, please bring unopened packs of pads, tampons, liners, leggings or other hygiene essentials to donate. Every contribution makes a difference!

Celebrate N.C.'s State Trails with a hike on the Fonta Flora State Trail

Join us for a day of exploring two of North Carolina’s 14 State Trails

9:30 a.m. we will hike 5 miles on the Fonta Flora State Trail at Lake James State Park.

Starting from the new Visitor Center, we will hike a short distance down to a pedestrian bridge crossing a narrow point in Lake James, then head north on the Fonta Flora along Lake James and a small creek. This is an out-and-back hike: we will go 2.5 miles out on the trail, then return the way we came for a total of 5 miles.

  • Difficulty level: moderate

  • Distance: 5 miles total

  • Estimated hike time: 2.5 hours

  • What to wear: We will email you the day before the event advising of weather conditions for the day and how to best dress for the hike.

  • What to bring: Bring at least one bottle of water (1 liter), preferably two. And bring snacks.

  • Rest Stop: We will take a short break at the turnaround point.

We will meet in front of the Visitor Center.

To make this a day of adventure, we will reconvene at 2:30 p.m. at the Clear Creek Access to South Mountains State Park to sample another State Trail, the Wilderness Gateway State Trail.