Since the park was first developed in the mid-80s, many of its facilities have fallen into disrepair. DbD partnered with the Watauga County Tourism Development Authority to prioritize the redevelopment and expansion of this prized local feature.
Designed for Accessibility
From accessible parking to the mountaintop overlook, this redesign puts accessibility at the forefront of the visitor experience. Where parking was once limited and reaching the view required a steep climb and navigating boulders, a new ADA-accessible walkway now provides a safe, continuous route to the summit.
Visitors of all abilities can enjoy panoramic mountain views from the circular overlook, relax in a tranquility garden, or gather at an accessible picnic area – creating a welcoming destination for quiet reflection, shared meals, and unforgettable scenery.
Park
Master Plan
The Howard Knob Park Master Plan includes a modern overlook deck design with a 200 degree view across the mountains. An expanded parking area with accessible spaces and a renovated pavilion to improve on the park’s existing infrastructure. The plan also proposes new features to the park including walking trails, green space, a picnic area, a tranquility garden, and enclosed portable restroom facility.
Entrance
Signage
A new park entrance sign prominently displays the elevation of Howard Knob–an impressive 4,396 feet–visually identifying the park as a destination unto itself. Educational signage will provide visitors with information about the regional Northern Peaks State Trail (NPST), a former DBD trail planning project When constructed, the NPST will span 40 miles across the NC High Country connecting Elk Knob, Snake Mountain, Three Top Mountain and Howard Knob.
Community
Engagement
DbD partnered with the Watauga County TDA to create the Howard Knob Master Plan, building on our history of place branding, trail building, and design & engineering in Boone and the surrounding region. We collaborated with the Watauga Arts Council to incorporate public art into the plan for the park.
