Chimney Rock Park
The Best of the Mountains in One Place
Coming to the mountains is one of the authentic experiences in life, like going to the sea. It brings you closer to nature and to yourself. Chimney Rock gives you the opportunity to explore and experience nature's wonders up-close and personal. From unique geological formations to sweeping views, you'll find the best of the mountains in one place at Chimney Rock.
Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park is located in Chimney Rock Village near Lake Lure in the NC mountains. Just 25 miles southeast of Asheville, NC, the Park is nestled in Hickory Nut Gorge between the towns of Lake Lure and Bat Cave. The Park welcomes leashed and vaccinated pets.
Privately owned by the Morse family for more than 100 years, Chimney Rock was acquired by the state of North Carolina in 2007 to become part of the greater Chimney Rock State Park. Currently, the 1,000-acre Chimney Rock is one of only two areas of the state park open to the public.
Chimney Rock, the 535-million-year-old monolith for which the Park is named, is considered one of the most iconic sites in North Carolina. From its top, you'll soak in the 75-mile panoramic views of Hickory Nut Gorge and Lake Lure.
The Park features mountain hiking trails for all ages and abilities:
An alternative to the elevator, the upgraded Outcroppings trail, known as the "Ultimate Stairmaster," climbs 26 stories of stairs to the Chimney with rewarding views along the way.
The popular Hickory Nut Falls trail takes you out to the bottom of our 404-foot waterfall, the second highest of its kind east of the Mississippi River and featured in the movie The Last of the Mohicans. NOTE: The Hickory Nut Falls trail is currently closed for repairs due to damage sustained in a rockslide and is not expected to reopen before spring 2013. Discounted rates are in effect. Read more about the trail closure.
The Four Seasons trail heads out of the Meadows area through deciduous forest and connects with the Hickory Nut Falls trail.
Designed for kids and kids-at-heart, the Great Woodland Adventure features 12 Discovery Stations with locally-made sculptures that entertain and educate guests on some of the animals that call Chimney Rock home.
The Skyline trail takes you to the highest peak in the Park, Exclamation Point at 2,480 ft. Be sure to stop at the Opera Box and Devil's Head along the way.
If you're feeling adventurous, you can give rock climbing a try with our partners, Fox Mountain Guides. There's no equipment or experience necessary, just a bit of moxie. For the full experience, book a
2-hour, half-day or full-day clinic at Chimney Rock.
Explore Related Categories
