Chimney Rock Park

chimney-rock-park

Chimney Rock, is considered one of the most iconic sites in North Carolina.  From its top, you can take in the spectacular 75-mile panoramic views of Hickory Nut Gorge and Lake Lure.  Enjoy hiking trails for all ages, the 404-foot Hickory Nut Falls waterfall, and much more.  Chimney Rock Park is located near Lake Lure in the NC mountains.  Just 25 miles southeast of Asheville, NC.

Chimney Rock Park offers hiking trails for all skill levels, spectacular views, the Devil's Head balancing rock and a 404-foot (123 m) waterfall, Hickory Nut Falls.  It's most notable feature is Chimney Rock, a 315-foot rock formation, accessible by elevator and providing views of the park and surrounding countryside.  Areas within the park as well as surrounding the park were featured prominently in the 1984 film A Breed Apart and most of the final scenes of the 1992 adaptation of The Last of the Mohicans, including the climactic fight between Magua and Chingachgook.

The Park features mountain hiking trails for all ages and abilities:

  • The Hickory Nut Falls trail, takes you out to the 404-ft. Hickory Nut Falls waterfall, the second highest in the East.
  • The Four Seasons trail heads out of the Meadows area through the 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 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 balancing rock along the way.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can give rock climbing a try Fox Mountain Guides. There’s no equipment or experience necessary. For the full experience, book a 2-hour, half-day or full-day clinic at Chimney Rock.  For more information visit the Chimney Rock Park website.