Chimney Rock State Park, established in 2007, hovers over Hickory Nut Gorge and Lake Lure and offers hiking trails for all ages and a 404-foot waterfall that was featured in "The Last of the Mohicans." Named after the 535-million-year-old monolith resembling a chimney, you can climb to the top via the 499 steps on the Outcroppings Trail or climb the 330 steps via the Exclamation Point Trail for a view 200 ft above Chimney Rock. The latter trail is a combination of stairs and switchbacks, and it leads to popular points of interest like the Opera Box, Devil’s Head, and Exclamation Point.
Hickory Nut Falls in Chimney Rock State Park.
The Exclamation Point Trail also marks the beginning of the Skyline Trail, a moderate-to-strenuous out-and-back trail that is approximately 2.2 miles round-trip. This trek brings you to the highest elevation in Chimney Rock at 2,480 ft and offers extensive views of the Hickory Nut Gorge as you work towards Peregrine’s Point. For a shorter, more moderate hike, check out the popular Hickory Nut Falls Trail which leads you to the bottom of one of the tallest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River.
For those with mobility concerns, there is an elevator in the park leading to the Sky Lounge and bridge (both wheelchair accessible) that offers 75-mile views. If you want to experience the park from a different perspective, try rock climbing with Fox Mountain Guides which offers rappelling adventures across every skill level.
Chimney Rock State Park also hosts events and activities throughout the year. In September, they host their annual Flock to the Rock event which celebrates fall bird and butterfly migration. In December, Santa can be spotted climbing down the "chimney," and resident groundhogs, Tater and Yammy, predict winter weather on Groundhog’s Day in February. Outside these special events, you'll find ranger demonstrations, animal encounters, yoga with a view, naturalist hikes, and more. For family-friendly activities, check out the Great Woodland Adventure Trail designed for kids (and kids at heart) with interactive stations and the Animal Discovery Den.
Fall color in Chimney Rock State Park.
Admission Information
You can purchase your tickets online or at the park upon arrival. From March 10-December, 2024, adult tickets are $17, youth (ages 5-15) are $8, and children 4 and under are free. The Family 1-Day Pass is $45 and includes admission for two adults and up to three youth ages. The park is open 8:30 AM- 4:30 PM from November 3-March 9 and 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM from March 10-November 2. It closes at 3 PM on Christmas Eve and is completely closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas. Once purchased, tickets never expire and can be used any day!
Greybeard Rentals offers a coupon code to our guests visiting the park. Ask our Guest Services for more information, and be sure to select it as an add-on when booking!