Long hot hike up the Indian Creek Trail from Dan River in Hanging Rock State Park. It's just under 4 miles up to the Hanging Rock Visitor Center parking lot, then a short, steep climb to Hanging Rock along the Hanging Rock Trail.The first two miles of Indian Creek Trail from the Dan River to the road leading into the park climb gently through thick forest -- nice hiking if you get an early start. The climb up to the water falls and then the visitor center parking lot is brutal in places, but you can take breaks and cool off at the falls.  View from Hanging Rock is awesome.Trip writeup at Two-Heel Drive.

Indian Creek has a couple crossings that are diffiuclt to get across without getting your feet wet. Not such a big deal on the way in, but on the way out you may arrive at your car with wet feet/shoes. Plan accordingly.This hike is doable in summer, but be sure to bring lots of water -- you'll sweat it all out.