Some of the Best Views in the North Carolina Mountains
Chimney Rock State Park represents the best of the North Carolina mountains in one place. Surrounded by the towering cliffs of Hickory Nut Gorge, the Park offers some of the most amazing views found anywhere in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
The attraction within the state park, Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park, is publicly owned by the state of North Carolina and is privately operated by Chimney Rock Management, LLC, which provides many attractions to enhance the visitor experience.
Stunning Scenic Views, Hiking Trails, Outdoor Rock Climbing, Shopping and More at Chimney Rock
The greater Chimney Rock State Park currently encompasses roughly 6,000 acres on both the north and south sides of the gorge and expansion efforts continue to bring more of the gorge’s rich natural resources into conservation.
From atop Chimney Rock, an ancient monolith soaring 1,200ft above the valley floor, guests can see more than 75 miles across Lake Lure, the Blue Ridge Mountains and Carolina Piedmont. With unique hiking trails, the Park has something for everyone including the family-friendly Great Woodland Adventure trail with 12 discovery stations along the way. More adventurous hikers will want to take the Outcroppings and Skyline trails for some of the most unique views of the Park.
Along with the Chimney, the Park’s other star attraction is 404 ft. Hickory Nut Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River and featured in the blockbuster movie “The Last of the Mohicans.”
A new climbing policy at the Rumbling Bald Access has been put into place. All climbers must fill out a free climbing permit before bouldering or rock climbing. Permits are available at the parking lot kiosk.
Organized groups of climbers must register at least two weeks in advance by submitting a Special Activity Permit application to the park superintendent.
Chimney Rock also offers guided rock climbing lessons for beginner to advanced climbers through Fox Mountain Guides, a professional mountain and rock climbing company. The Old Rock Cafe offers tasty sandwiches and snacks, and souvenirs can be picked up at Cliff Dwellers Gift Shop. The Park offers discounts for groups, and is pet friendly.
Chimney Rock was recently named #3 for scenic views in a national poll of Southern Living Magazine readers and is one of the most visited attractions in North Carolina.
Chimney Rock Hours of Operation
Ticket Plaza for the attractions open from 8:30am to 5:30pm EDT, park closes at 7pm.
Check for winter hours.
Rumbling Bald Access Hours:
December- February: 7 am – 7 pm
March, April, October: 7 am – 9 pm
May – September: 7 am – 10 pm.
November: 7 am – 8 pm.
Chimney Rock Admission Fees for Attraction Area
Adults: $15
Youth (ages 5-15): $7
Under 4: free
Annual passes and group rates available.
Hours of operation and fees are subject to change. Contact directly for most current information.
Location
Chimney Rock Park is located 25 miles southeast of Asheville on US 64/74-A.
Chimney Rock State Park
Box 220
Chimney Rock, NC 28720
828-625-1823
Beyond Chimney Rock Park
In addition to Chimney Rock Park, there are many other North Carolina attractions to see in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Learn more about hiking trails, scenic drives, the Biltmore Estate, the Blue Ridge Parkway, historical sites in North Carolina and other Blue Ridge attractions.