Chimney Rock State Park

The views here are breathtaking. The trail to chimney rock is relatively steep the map estimates roughly 500 steps you will climb. Thankfully for those who can’t make it up but still want to enjoy the view, they have an elevator! Hiking to the waterfall was very easy, almost completely flat and well maintained. The waterfall was beautiful!

Keep in mind some parts of trails can be closed to weather such as ice and wind. Overall I’d say it was worth the cost to visit at least once! (Kids will love it here!)

Great hike. The elevator was not working so had a even longer hike. Whole lot of stairs and exercise but worth it for the views. Has a nice place near top for food and gift shop with a few tables

I really loved this place. The drive up was nice. There is an elevator for people who don't want to take the stairs. There are A LOT of stairs but it's a good workout. The view from the flag was beautiful but you can keep going up and there is a pretty trail on top of the mountain that goes for a mile at least to a waterfall.

The park is beautiful. Wear comfortable clothes, good hiking shoes and bring plenty of water. We visited during Labor Day weekend and there were record numbers of visitors that day. The wait in line for the elevator to the top was almost an hour but you can also climb the stairs to the top. Definitely worth the visit.

Great place and an iconic landmark, well worth a visit.
The hikes are accessible to every level of trekking experience, the view from top of Chimney Rock is stunning.
Hickory Nuts Forest Falls deserve a visit, especially when the sun starts to light the falls with some awesome light effects.
Enjoyed it very much!

Definitely worth the walk, majestic waterfall and beautiful views. If you are visiting the area, you need to stop at this National Park. Wear comfortable shoes and water.

It’s been 20 years since I’ve stepped foot on Chimney Rock. The excitement and nostalgia returned immediately. What a beautiful planet we live on. My Fiance and son adored the park. We will definitely be returning again in the near future to do some more exploring. Highly recommend visiting if you’re in the area.

Beautiful scenery just looking up at it and if you are the fit & adventurous sort, there is a hiking trail to the top. We took the elevator, which is at the end of a tunnel built in the side of the rock. Once at the top, no matter if you chose to hike or took the elevator, the amazing scenery makes the trip worth it.

An incredible place to visit! We went during Christmas break, there were a lot of people there, all ages from babies to elderly. The park was running a shuttle (busses) which is included in your admission (don't have to pay extra) to bring people up to the upper parking lot. From there you can choose to take an elevator to the top or take the stairs, which are a relatively easy climb. The stairs are almost a feature in and of themselves because the construction is so sturdy and well done, it's an impressive structure. You could spe d all day here hiking and climbing or you could make a quick trip to the top and be in and out of the park in an hour. There's a couple of cute gift shops with water and food if you are hungry. Also the entrance is conveniently located in downtown Lake Lure. Drive onto the state park's property and take the road up to the entrance parking lots. Views are spectacular.

I can see why this state park is so popular. It represents America and brings positivity this country so well needs. People being happy and enjoying living in this amazing nation. People coming together, rejoicing the amazing country we live in and take care of.

Park has amples of trails and is very nice to come to during this time of the year. Has an elevator with a helpful person and alot of hiking you can do! Great and amazing state park! 17 dollar admission and gift shop is a little steep but for what you're getting, I'd say it's worth it!

Chimney Rock State Park: A Breathtaking Ascent into Nature's Wonderland

Chimney Rock State Park, nestled in the foothills of North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains, is more than just a park – it's a breathtaking ascent into nature's wonderland. From the iconic Chimney Rock itself to cascading waterfalls, hidden coves, and panoramic vistas, this park offers something for every adventurer.

Nature's Masterpiece: Chimney Rock

The star of the show is undoubtedly Chimney Rock, a 315-foot natural monolith that juts dramatically from the landscape. Ascend to the top via the scenic elevator or lace up your hiking boots and conquer the Chimney Rock Trail, rewarded with breathtaking views of Hickory Nut Gorge and the surrounding countryside.

Waterfall Wonders:

Hickory Nut Falls, a two-tiered cascade plunging 120 feet into the gorge below, is a sight and sound to behold. Hike the Hickory Nut Falls Trail for up-close views and the refreshing mist, or take in the panorama from the Hickory Nut Gorge Overlook.

Hidden Gems:

Venture beyond the main attractions and discover the park's hidden gems. Explore the mysterious Crack in the Rock, a narrow passageway that splits Chimney Rock in two. Hike the Hidden Cove Trail to a secluded waterfall and swimming hole, or take a boat tour on Lake Lure, the park's crown jewel.

Adventure Awaits:

Chimney Rock State Park caters to all levels of outdoor enthusiasts. Rock climbers can test their skills on the park's challenging routes, while families can enjoy a leisurely picnic or explore the Discovery Center. For the more adventurous, there's ziplining, rappelling, and even a ropes course.

A Park for All Seasons:

Chimney Rock State Park offers year-round beauty and activities. Spring brings wildflowers and cascading waterfalls, summer beckons with swimming and hiking, autumn paints the landscape in fiery hues, and winter transforms the park into a wonderland of frosted peaks and cozy cabins.

More Than Just a Hike:

Chimney Rock State Park isn't just about stunning scenery. It's a place to reconnect with nature, create lasting memories, and experience the magic of the Blue Ridge Mountains. With its convenient location near Asheville, it's the perfect weekend getaway or a scenic stop on a road trip.

So, pack your hiking boots, sense of adventure, and prepare to be amazed by Chimney Rock State Park. It's an unforgettable escape into nature's embrace.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Pro Tip: Arrive early during peak season to avoid crowds and secure parking.

I hope this review inspires you to explore the wonders of Chimney Rock State Park!

Incredible views. LOTS of stairs! Food court and gift shops. Waterfalls.
This is a tourist spot. Not so much for regular hikers. Nice staff. Oh yeah it has an elevator.
TIP: if you dont want to tire yourself right away, i would recommend taking the elevator up to the gift shop, which will take you to the chimney rock with the american flag. But that point is only halfway through the highest point. You can still go higher to the devil’s head, exclamation point and the top point (top of waterfalls) but you’ll have to walk.
Then just take the stairs to go back down to the parking lot. This way you can still get to the other view points.
If you want to see the waterfalls go down the stairs right by the mens/womens restroom. Then it’s about another maybe half mile walk to the waterfalls.
Another great thing about this park is that it is located in the middle of a local town. No recognizable chain. And one side sits next to a river so some restaurants have a really nice patio view of the river.
I have to say that i underestimated the stairs. About half a mile of walking i was already at 160-170 bpm heart date.
Oh yea and it is only $10 to get in for a day (as of this writing, 2/24/24)

We stopped here briefly while staying in Asheville. Once you make it up the winding road to the top, there is a large parking lot near the gift shop. The gift shop was very nice and quite large. Bathrooms are nearby. You can climb the million stairs to the top or take a quick ride up an elevator. We didn’t have to wait at the elevator , we were able to go right up. The views from the top are phenomenal. Highly recommend it if you aren’t afraid of heights.

The park has various hiking trails also. We did the half mile Nature Adventure trail. It was a nice trail with neat interactive stations throughout. If you have kids, they would love the trail. Near the trail is an animal den exhibit that has snakes, chipmunks, opossum and woodchucks.

This park is well worth the trip if you are in the area. It has a neat little town with shops and eateries outside the gate.

Very nice state park in a very nice town. The drive up the very narrow road will make some people nervous. Once in the parking lot you can either take the stairs or elevator up to the viewing area. To go further though, it's mostly all stairs. Like a whole bunch of stairs. So many stairs that most people don't even attempt it so you get some of the viewing areas to yourself. Someone had a heart attack while we were there, this park requires physical activity. A bunch of people had their dogs with them. There really isn't a bad view unless you do the trail to the top of the waterfall. The trail to the top of the waterfall will have you annoyed while breathing heavy so turn around at peregrines point.

Breathtaking views of the lake lure and its surrounding parklands from the Chimney rock and Devil’s head. Worth visiting and hiking all trails. You can park at the ground parking near ticket plaza ($17 each) and take a shuttle, it’s few minutes ride. To reach at the top, one can use tunnel to elevator (26 stories in 32 secs)or stairs (approx 20 mins), through stairs you can see Vista view, Subway, Grotto, Pulpit Rock, Crevice Pass. It was amazing to visit Opera Box, Devil’s Head, Exclamation trail, Skyline trail, Hickory nut falls trail, waterfall and the four season trail. All trails are intermediate, not long but has stairs. This park has outdoor classrooms, kids friendly trails, sky lounge, shelters, benches, restrooms, nice parking, gift shop etc. Staff is great and friendly. Exploring this park was really fun and stunning.

My family and I loved the gorgeous vista. My grandkids lived the trail we took. There was a young lady who showed us different species living in the area. We saw a corn snake, box turtle, possum and frog as well as different pelts. It was a great experience for my grandchildren who loved it!

Everyone needs to add this park to their bucket list. Our visit today was the most relaxing and full of beautiful views. It cost $17per adult to enter the park. We took the shuttle to the entrance and waited for the elevator ride. The tunnel is impressive but the elevator itself is a masterpiece. Keith, the operator was nice and made us feel welcomed. Once you’re up there, there’s a gift shop combined with a restaurant. It’s honestly a brilliant operation. There’s some sitting outside and the ambiance is amazing. We walked to the rock for the iconic view and capture a once in a lifetime family photo.

Chimney Rock is always a fun experience to walk around and enjoy the shops, eat, and just have a good day. Be sure to drive on down to Lake Lure for a few more sights! This quaint town in the mountains of NC does tend to close a little early around 5 or 6 o'clock, so go early.

Beautiful place! We hiked for 4-5 hours and completed all trails here . We took the shuttle both ways to get all things done in time as we had only one day here . Well maintained park, clean restrooms, drinking water fountains , nice staffs , everything good .

Naturally the most beautiful place in NC. The view from the top of the Chimney Rock is breathtaking. I did not do the hike so cannot say anything about that but it definitely looked fun. Make sure you carry lots of water if hiking. Opera deck is a must-go.