Chimney Rock, one of the North Carolina’s most iconic natural landmarks, is ultimately the most impressive when viewed in person. The chimney at the center of the attraction dates back 535 million years and measures 315 feet high with views from the top that extend 75 miles.
Locals and tourists alike have been exploring Chimney Rock as an attraction since it first opened in 1902.
Flickr/dconvertini In 2007, the family that held it as a private attraction put it up for sale and, fortunately, the family and the state reached a sale agreement (saving the attraction from private development).
At that point, Chimney Rock was folded into a state park that was renamed to Chimney Rock State Park. Today, the attraction sees well over a quarter million visitors each year.
YouTube/Bigfootbuilt Accessing the million-dollar view at the top of the chimney is possible via trails and hundreds of stairs — or, visitors can take an elevator most of the way, leaving only 44 stairs to get to the landing at the top.
A number of trails add even more adventure for exploring the park, including a hike that leads to Hickory Nut Falls, featured in the 1992 major motion picture, “The Last of the Mohicans.”
YouTube/Bigfootbuilt
At 404 feet in height, this epic waterfall is one of the tallest east of the Mississippi and a hike over to stand at the base is well worth the effort while exploring Chimney Rock.
Google Images/Omar Monterroso For those who can’t always go when the desire strikes, check out the video below. Although recent state park rules prohibit drones taking off from within the park, this footage was posted in 2016 and shows off some amazing perspectives of the chimney and the park. As a bonus, it also then travels over to Lake Lure. Check it out! It was posted by YouTube user Bigfootbuilt:
When was the last time you visited Chimney Rock? Do you plan on making a trip this year, either to the park, the rock, or just the Village of Chimney Rock? We’d love to hear your feedback!
Flickr/dconvertini
In 2007, the family that held it as a private attraction put it up for sale and, fortunately, the family and the state reached a sale agreement (saving the attraction from private development).
YouTube/Bigfootbuilt
Accessing the million-dollar view at the top of the chimney is possible via trails and hundreds of stairs — or, visitors can take an elevator most of the way, leaving only 44 stairs to get to the landing at the top.
Google Images/Omar Monterroso
For those who can’t always go when the desire strikes, check out the video below. Although recent state park rules prohibit drones taking off from within the park, this footage was posted in 2016 and shows off some amazing perspectives of the chimney and the park. As a bonus, it also then travels over to Lake Lure. Check it out! It was posted by YouTube user Bigfootbuilt:
Learn more about Chimney Rock State Park here and go here to learn more about the features and attractions at Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park. Park hours vary by season.
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Address: Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park, Chimney Rock, NC 28720, USA
