Breathtaking Chimney Rock State Park, North Carolina

Elle MacRae — Thu, 11 Jun 2020 15:36:14 +0000

Chimney Rock State Park is one of the most popular parks to visit in North Carolina. Each year more than a quarter of a million visitors come to climb 499 steps (or take the super convenient elevator) to the top of the outcropping for absolutely breathtaking views. From its top, you’ll discover 75-mile panoramic views of Hickory Nut Gorge and Lake Lure.

What is Chimney Rock?

The rock is a 35 million-year-old, 315 feet high chunk of granite situated above the summit of the Village of Chimney Rock. It is the highlight of Chimney Rock State Park! Once you’re at the top, you have an amazing vista of Lake Lure and the Blue Ridge Mountains that will knock your socks off!

How do I get to the top?

You’ll begin your journey by weaving up the mountain until you reach a parking lot. From there, you’ll be shuttled up to the top of the mountain in a minibus. Once you reach the visitors center you have two options: climb 499 steps up to the lookout or ride the elevator.

The park is pet friendly however, dogs are not permitted to ride the elevator so if you bring your pooch, you’ll have to take the trails.

The Outcroppings Trail is a series of stairs cases that lead to several vantage points. Admittedly, it is A LOT of steps but if you’re young and active, it shouldn’t be a problem. It’s a hell of a cardio and leg workout and there are plenty of opportunities to catch your breath.

On our most recent trip, we took the elevator since we had the kiddos. The elevator takes you right through the center of the rock and allows for easy access to the Chimney. If you’re trying to fit other things in your day (Lake Lure, Biltmore Estate, etc.), this is the way to go!

The elevator drops you off at the gift shop/snack bar. A grand American flag signals your arrival to North Carolina’s most iconic rock formation. You’ll still have to tackle a few stairs to get to the top of the Chimney, but the views from the top (on a clear day) are absolutely worth it! Be sure to take a moment to soak in the view- after all, you worked pretty hard to get there!

Chimney Rock Park Trails

Chimney Rock has six unique hiking trails that meander around the park. The Four Seasons Trail leads from the first parking lot to the base of Chimney Rock. The trail is only .7 miles but climbs almost 400 feet through a dense forest. The trail meets up with the Hickory Nut Falls Trail.

The Outcroppings Trail has nearly 400 steps that lead all the way up to the chimney. Once you’re at the chimney level, the Exclamation Point Trail winds its way up to Exclamation Point, which has an elevation of 2,480 and absolutely insane views of the gorge.

From Exclamation Point,you’ll find yet another trail. The Skyline Trail is a little over a mile long, and is atop of the ridge of the chimney. The trail leads to Peregrine’s Point which is the chimney’s highest accessible viewpoint. The path is wide but it is uphill and rather strenuous. If you’re able to make the hike, you’ll be rewarded with a view of the headwaters of Hickory Nut Falls. Hickory Nut Falls is the tallest waterfall in a North Carolina state park and one of the tallest east of the Mississippi River. The falls were featured in the movie The Last of the Mohicans.

How Much Does it Cost to Visit?

The cost for a single day ticket is $17 per adult and $8 per youth (ages 5-15). Children under 5 are free.

The price includes parking, access to all of the trails and the elevator (when in operation).

The Village of Chimney Rock

In 1902, a physician named Lucius Morse traveled to the area in search of clean, mountain air to help combat his recent tuberculosis diagnosis. He fell in love with the mountains, chimneys, and cliffs of Hickory Nut Gorge. Morse returned home to share his discovery with his older twin brothers. Together, the three of them purchased the land with the lofty goal of damming the Rocky Broad River and making the area a tourist destination.

Today, their vision is known as the Village of Chimney Rock. The area of known for its hiking trails, water sports (kayaking, canoeing, water rafting), and its stunning views.

After your hike, be sure to pop into the village located at the entrance of the park. The village is small, with pretty much everything off of the main street. We stayed at a charming Air B&B during our visit. There are a ton of options available in the area! Some places we visited while we were in town include Broad River Coffee (yum!), and Riverwatch Bar & Grill.

Our Thoughts on Chimney Rock

Chimney Rock is an excellent place to visit if you have a couple of extra hours in the area. It’s well worth the trip from Asheville or Hendersonville, especially if you combine it with time at Lake Lure. We’ve visited in the winter, spring, and summer. The warmer months definitely offer views of the surrounding area.

Where is Chimney Rock Located?

Getting there is a breeze. It is located in the adorable, quaint Village of Chimney Rock, which is easily accessible by I-40. The drive from Asheville is roughly 40 minutes. It is located near Lake Lure, one of our favorite places to visit during the summertime.

Dirty Dancing Festival

If you’re looking to have the time of your life (see what I did there?), you should consider visiting Chimney Rock during the month of September. Chimney Rock is home to the annual Dirty Dancing Festival.

The two day festival is centered around the movie Dirty Dancing which was filmed on Lake Lure. The festival features entertainment and activities based on the movie. Dress up as your favorite character, dust, off your Keds, and break out your best dance moves!

Other North Carolina Scenic Attractions

DuPont State Forest– This will forever be one of my favorite parks. It offers incredible hiking trails and the park features several iconic waterfalls.

Blue Ridge Parkway- One of the classic American drives is the Blue Ridge Parkway. You could easily spend an entire day navigating the switchbacks and stopping at the scenic overlooks.

Grandfather Mountain– Grandfather Mountain is the most popular natural attraction in all of North Carolina. There are several different hiking trails, but the most popular is MacRae’s Peak. The challenging trail a handful of wooden ladders as well as a few rope pulleys to assist in the steep climb. Fun fact: My family, the MacRae’s, have strong ancestral ties to this mountain.

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Updated: 11/7/21

North Carolina State Parks - 5 Suitcases