Moses H. Cone Memorial Park

Overview

A grand Gilded Age estate turned public playground, this 3,500+ acre property at MP 294 revolves around Flat Top Manor and a web of wide, gravel carriage roads. It’s one of the Parkway’s busiest—and for good reason: rolling meadows, manicured forests, lakeside strolls, and long‑view vistas all in one stop.

Why it’s special

Think history plus easy adventure. You get the stately, 23‑room Flat Top Manor (aka Cone Manor) and an intact network of carriage roads designed for leisurely travel—perfect for walking, running, or riding. The lower level of the manor houses the Parkway Craft Center, where regional makers demonstrate and sell their work (seasonal).

Trails and classic outings

• Bass Lake Loop: Flat, scenic lap with mountain reflections—great for families and casual walkers.
• Trout Lake: Quieter forest and water views with options to connect deeper into the estate.
• Flat Top Mountain Road: Gradual climb to broad views and the fire tower area for a bigger outing.

These roads are multi‑use and shared with equestrians; they’re well maintained, but expect some mud after rain.

Manor, craft, and history

Completed in 1901 as Moses and Bertha Cone’s summer home, the manor crowns the landscape. The Parkway Craft Center operates seasonally inside, adding a live‑culture angle to your visit. Wander the grounds for rose terraces, historic barns, and the family cemetery—reminders of the estate’s Country Place Era design.

Wildlife

Keep an eye out for white‑tailed deer, wild turkeys, and a wide variety of songbirds around the meadows and lakes. In the remoter sections, black bears are occasionally reported—give them space if encountered.

Practicalities

• Access: Turn off the Parkway at MP 294 and follow the entrance road to the main lot behind the manor.
• Facilities: Restrooms are available near the manor; portable toilets may appear seasonally at busy spots. No food service on site.
• Maps: Grab the estate trail map from official sources or the annual print map produced for this property—it makes linking loops much easier.
• Horses share the carriage roads; yield appropriately and expect manure on the roads.

Best time to visit

• For fewer people and easy parking, come early morning or late afternoon on weekdays.
• Summer weekends and peak fall foliage see heavy crowds at the manor, Bass Lake, and trailheads—arrive before 9 am or later in the day.
• Photography is best at golden hour around the manor and along the lakes. The grounds are open daily, while the Craft Center operates seasonally—check timing if that’s a priority.