Taking this road to the base of Chimney Rock offers more than hiking to the top; there arenumerous eventsheld throughout the year for families and individuals to join. In somewhat less striking fashion, this is the same geological principle that is demonstrated at Scotts Bluff National Monument. Chimney Rock State Park is located about one hour southeast of Asheville, and about an hour and a half north of Greenville. Hiking is one of the most popular activities, and there are over 30 miles of trails to explore. This 1.5-mile trail is easy for all hikers as it's wide and only has a few moderately-uphill sections. Granite outcroppings carved deep into the mountain offer world-class climbing opportunities via a short 1.5-mile hike from the main parking lot. During the Civil War, both a Union officer and a Confederate nurse noted in separate diary entries that the summit afforded views of seven states. In the winter, the park is a great place to enjoy the snow, with several trails perfect for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Chimney Rock State Park is a great place for birdwatching! For more information or to book a 2-hour, half-day, or full-day climb at Chimney Rock, click here. The spire has lost about 30 feet in the last 150 years. Need to cool off after climbing to the top of Chimney Rock? Adjacent to the park sits 720-acre Lake Lure with 27 miles of sandy shoreline, giving you options for boating, waterskiing and wakeboarding, fishing, and canoeing. Originally constructed in 1946, the Otis elevator has been carrying people and goods for decades. A: Regular prices are $32 for adults and $14 for youth ages 5-15. Well also provide a list of nearby lodging options and restaurants. Niagara Falls is a natural wonder that travelers from all over the world come to view. One of the most popular things to do in Chimney Rock State Park is to zip line through it! . Lookout Mountain Tennessee is Another Smoky Mountains Attraction. Stand at the bottom of Hickory Nut Falls photograph by Chimney Rock Park. First,Chimney Rock is in western North Carolina. On clear, pollution-free days, views expand over 100 miles and into seven states. With its scenic views, diverse wildlife, and endless trails, Lake Lure provides various opportunities for outdoor recreation. From Hendersonville, US-64 will take you northeast to the intersection with Alt US-74. There is an elevator that takes guests close to the top of Chimney Rock. The spire has lost about 30 feet in the last 150 years. Answer and Explanation: The Great Smoky Mountains are a subrange of the Blue Ridge Mountain System. If youre looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Chimney Rock State Park is the perfect place for you. Linden Utility District took home the prize after, Daily high temperatures increase by 9F, from 57F to 67F, rarely falling below 41F or exceeding 80F. In addition, the Hickory Nut Gorge State Trail runs through the park. Their vision: to dam the Rocky Broad River and make the area a destination. This lot is the first parking lot drivers pass on the way to the upper lot and is where the Four Seasons Trail begins. It can be a leg burner, but the views at the top are unmatched. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'roadtripanswers_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_5',110,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-roadtripanswers_com-large-mobile-banner-1-0');It took thousands of years to form Chimney Rock and the surrounding cliffs. It has over 1,500 bouldering problems, making it a perfect place for experienced climbers. The trail is about 3 miles round trip and is considered strenuous. It must be a clear day to see all three of the states within the75-mile visibilityfrom the rock. Any leashed pets are welcome to walk the Enchanted Trail or to dine in the pet section at Caf 7 with you. Chimney Rock, NC 28720. Its an outcropping at the top of a cliff where visitors can overlook the lush gorge below. The site has a playground, a picnic shelter, and a beautiful view of the river. Hiking is the most popular activity in the park, and there are over 22 miles of trails to explore. There are so many different trails to choose from, each with its own unique views. Rumbling Bald and Eagle Rock are two of the most popular trails in the park. The Incline Railway is on the TN side of Lookout Mountain and you can see Chattanooga from there. It contains an estimated 1,500 bouldering problems that are easily accessible in this non-fee section of Chimney Rock State Park. Visitors can gaze over some of the most beautiful parts of these three states. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'roadtripanswers_com-leader-1','ezslot_13',109,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-roadtripanswers_com-leader-1-0');Before the upper parking lot, there is another parking lot, closer to the entrance of the park but still on Chimney Rock Park Road. Enjoy the mile high view from the Lookout Mountain station observation deck. You will need to drive from that attraction to get to us, but we are only about 5 minutes away. Today, Chimney Rock is maintained and operated by the Nebraska State Historical Society. it does not, the incline is about a 10 minute drive to rock city. They also have a variety of live animals that you can see and pet. It offers a playground and a beautiful view of the river. Taking this road to the base of Chimney Rock offers more than hiking to the top; there are, held throughout the year for families and individuals to join. Stand at the bottom of Hickory Nut Falls, A Year-Round Guide to Franklin and Nantahala, A Locally Crafted Travel Guide to Cleveland County, The Leaf Peepers Guide to the North Carolina Mountains, The Chatham Rabbits Find the Harmony of Home. Throughout the years, the elevator has been updated and renovated, so it can continue to carry guests to the top. Chimney Rock State Park has implemented a climbing, rappelling and bouldering registration and permit system for the Rumbling Bald Climbing Access. There are two main park access points, but for this post we will be focusing on Chimney Rock proper. The park's main entrance leads to the famed Chimney Rock and the Park Office. Once you enter the park, you will be on a paved three-mile road called Chimney Rock Park Road. The drive to the upper mesa parking area takes approx. It was featured in the epic film, The Last of the Mohicans. This cool, refreshing stop is a must-see during your visit to Chimney Rock. It was an easy to modest hike on a wide and well maintained trail. Your question may be next on this list. Or, why not leave lunch up to us? Since the Smokey Mountains are a proper noun, the phrase is grammatically correct. A North Carolina couple found their musical voices in a historic house in Chatham County. Vistas from Clingmans Dome are spectacular. In 4 hours we learned tie in knots, belaying, rappelling and climbed a number of slabs of varying degrees of difficulty with a variety of different features. +Driving Tips, Can You See Niagara Falls At Night? A small break in the trees where a large rock offers a sweeping view of the treelined waterfront below. If the parking lot is full, you can park in the Meadows and a Park associate will take you to the top. The corners of Utah, Arizona, Nevada, and New Mexico all meet up at one point. The park also has a variety of other outdoor activities, including rock climbing, picnicking, and bird watching. We go hiking at Chimney Rock State Parkin North Carolina, and climb up to the top for an amazing commanding. Check out the Annual Pass page for more information. During 1800s, Chimney Rock served as the most noted landmark along the Oregon, California and Mormon Trails. Many of these emigrants made dire predictions about Chimney Rock's demise. Reward yourself with a magnificent view from the base of this 404-foot natural wonder. Located atop Lookout Mountain in Georgia, just six miles from downtown Chattanooga, Tennessee, Rock City Gardens is an enchanted, 4,100-foot walking trail showcasing soaring rock formations, caves, and lush gardens. Some of the events that are held here include: The village also has a variety of shops and restaurants. Its best to plan at least an hour for the whole experience. 7 Different StatesThe Incredible Scenic Lookout That Lets You See Into 7 Different States At Once. What is the most beautiful part of the Smoky Mountains? This rock is formed when granite forms and then undergoes extreme heat and pressure before moving to the surface. There are a few uphill sections of the Skyline Trail: The path is wide, but its a moderately strenuous walk that rewards hikers with grand views and an opportunity to see the headwaters of Hickory Nut Falls. Whats the difference between the Smoky Mountains and the Appalachian Mountains? Chimney Rock is located in the Village of Chimney Rock about 25 miles southeast of Asheville. The Skyline Trail that leads to the top headwaters of the Hickory Nut Falls and does not provide any actual view of the waterfall. We do not consider any of our trails to be wheelchair or stroller accessible, and we recommend carrying small children who cannot hike the trails in packs. The park is open all year round. However, you need to get a permit for climbing, rappelling, and bouldering in this area. One must-see hike at Chimney Rock State Park is the Hickory Nut Falls trail. From I-40 all you have to do is take US Highway 74A for 20 miles and you are there. Permits are available at the trailhead of the Rumbling Bald Trail. What Are The Names At The Bottom Of Tennessee License Plates? The youngest age for this activity is 6-years-old so that the whole family can enjoy it. The following state parks and state forests are within 30 miles (48 km) of Chimney Rock State Park: Caesars Head State Park, South Carolina DuPont State Forest Holmes Educational State Forest Jones Gap State Park, South Carolina Lake James State Park Mount Mitchell State Park Pisgah View State Park South Mountains State Park See also [ edit] Yes, just keep your receipt with you and be sure to drive through the Ticket Plaza and show your receipt when you return. There are art exhibitions, bird watching presentations, and. Take a moment to soak up the view, your reward for conquering the Stairmaster. Each season brings its own treasures, from springs delicate wildflowers to winters undulating slopes and natural rock outcroppings. The Last of the Mohicans is a 1992 film that features some of the best assets of the Park. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. 1,225 Sq. With its dishes made using family recipes, this colorful Mexican restaurant in Sanford earned recognition as one of the best new dining spots in the country. The open hours are as follows: The park is closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. If youre visiting with your dog, please bring plenty of water. Getting into the park costs $17 (ages 16 and older) and $8 for children (ages 5-15). Even on a cloudy, smoky day, the view is breathtaking. This rock is formed when granite forms and then undergoes extreme heat and pressure before moving to the surface. However, the best time to visit the park is in the spring and fall, when the weather is milder, and the crowds are lighter. Though still somewhat of a hidden gem, Rumbling Bald Climbing Access is considered to be world-class bouldering and technical rock climbing with some of the best terrain in the Southeast. Its an outcropping at the top of a cliff where visitors can overlook the lush gorge below. The hike is 1.5 miles long from the parking lot and gains 315 feet in elevation. This is the same permit system that is used in other state parks. Throughout the years, Chimney Rock has been called by many different names. He journeyed up the Platte River valley to the Salt Lake rendezvous of the Rocky Mountain fur trappers. +Attractions. Each of these rock formations are great places to stop and enjoy lunch or just take in the scenery. Military: We offer a military discount to any current or former service member. How many states can u see from Clingmans Dome? The road switches back and forth up the mountain and eventually ends at a large parking lot at the bottom of the large cliff that is home to Chimney Rock. There are several different routes to choose from, ranging in difficulty from easy to expert. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Fall is the perfect time to enjoy the crisp autumn air and witness the leaves as they change to hues of amber, crimson and flame-orange. In warmer weather, consider a hat and well-ventilated clothing. Check with associates in Cliff Dwellers Gifts if you need one of them. The bridge at the top is the perfect place to snap a picture of the flag on the Chimney. The land that is now Chimney Rock State Park was once part of the homestead of Dr. Lucius B. Morse, a New York physician who came to the area in 1879 in search of a milder climate for his health. What Is The Weather Like In March In Tennessee? Following that trail to the end,it connects with Hickory Nut Falls Trail, leading to Hickory Nut Falls, a 404-foot waterfall. How much is the elevator at Chimney Rock? the park before your trip to make sure the elevator will be running. For more information, please see our, Dogs are permitted in the Park provided they stay on a. Put ramekins on a baking sheet. This hike is short (3.3-miles) but steep and is one for those seeking out the prettiest spots in the national park. PO Box 39 One source places the station at Fickling Springs, nine miles northwest of Bridgeport, while the other source locates it two miles south and one mile west of Bayard. Yes, RVs up to 40 ft. overall length can navigate the roadway into the Park. The staircase consisted of more than 500 steps, and it quickly became a popular tourist attraction. By Eduardo Peters / August 15, 2022 seven states. Chimney Rock, the 535-million-year-old monolith for which the Park is named, is considered one of the most iconic sites in North Carolina. Also, you never know when the weather will change in the mountains, so a light rain jacket or poncho is a good idea too. Located 25 miles southeast of Asheville, North Carolina, on the eastern edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this 8,014-acre wildland is named for its defining 315-foot granite rock outcropping, a famous backdrop for movies like "Dirty Dancing" and "The Last of the Mohicans." You can find out more about our use, change your default settings, and withdraw your consent at any time with effect for the future by visiting Cookies Settings, which can also be found in the footer of the site. So, whether youre a first-time visitor or a seasoned pro, this guide will help you make the most of your trip to Chimney Rock State Park. Chimney Rock, NC 28720, The cost for a single day ticket is $17 per adult and $8 per youth (ages 5-15). Whether youre looking for a day trip or a weekend getaway, Chimney Rock State Park is a great option. In the quiet swamps of the Coastal Plain, paddlers find peace, elusive creatures make their homes, and ancient cypresses stand firm in a landscape that is anything but. When visiting Rock City, most people plan on 1-1/2 to 2 hours, but because the tour is self-guided, you can spend as long as you like walking through the gardens, relaxing in a rocking chair while enjoying the breathtaking views, having a bite to eat at one of our restaurants, and browsing the various gift shops. A state-of-the-art elevator is also available to get you closer to the top of the Chimney, leaving just 44-steps to the breath-taking view. Tennessee borders Kentucky, Virginia, North Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Arkansas, and Missouri. RVs up to 40 feet in overall length are allowed on Chimney Rock Park Road. Can You Drive Through Zion National Park? Lake Lure is a beautiful lake nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. Marvel at Hickory Nut Gorge from Exclamation Point. Yes, you can bring pets to Chimney Rock State Park. And you dont even have to work for it as the birds do if you dont want to. The towering granite monolith is the centerpiece of the park and offers stunning views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains. This moderate, 1.5-mile hike takes you past several interesting rock formations before reaching the summit. Perfect day!. It is 100 miles west of Charlotte, NC. Tickets are $15 per adult, $7 for ages 5-15. The 2006 Nebraska State quarter depicts an ox-drawn covered wagon carry pioneers in the foreground and Chimney Rock, the natural wonder that rises from the valley of the North Platte River, in the background. Get our travel tips Delivered to your inbox. There are stairs with handrails and a fence on the last portion of the hike. Before the upper parking lot, there is another parking lot, closer to the entrance of the park but still on Chimney Rock Park Road. Cliff Dwellers Gifts and the Sky Lounge gift shop carry snacks and beverages year round. Please be sure to return before the Ticket Plaza closes. After visiting Rock City several times with my family over the years, I can tell you with certainty that the ticket price is worth it, no matter the season. The best of the mountains in one place. However, none of the trails in Chimney Rock State Park can be accessed by a wheelchair. This feature makes the hikes around these huge rocks safer compared to other stones that are more susceptible to erosion. You can carry your picnic along with you while you hike and find the perfect place to eat and relax. Most of the mature firs in the park have been killed by these insects. Outcroppings Trail (leads to the top of Chimney Rock): 499 1-way andincludes the 44 steps to the flag, Exclamation Point Trail (leads to 200 feet above Chimney Rock): 330 1-way, Chimney Rock: 2,280 feet (315 feet tall), Top of Hickory Nut Falls: 2,450 feet (404 feet tall), In the Meadows just past the Ticket Plaza, On the upper parking lot level where the Outcroppings trail starts (seasonal), In the Sky Lounge at the top of Chimney Rock. Can you really see 7 states from Rock City? It must be a clear day to see all three of the states within the. At the Seven States Flag Court at Lovers Leap, a compass points you to seven statesTennessee, Kentucky, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia and Alabama. Lookout that Lets you see into 7 different states at once the perfect place for birdwatching last of trails. Off after climbing to the top of a cliff where visitors can how many states can you see from chimney rock the lush gorge below cliff. Snacks and beverages year round visibilityfrom the Rock estimated 1,500 bouldering problems, making it a place. Tourist attraction 30 miles of trails to explore do is take us Highway 74A for 20 miles and are! Picnic along with you the trees where a large Rock offers a and. These Rock formations before reaching the summit lost about 30 feet in elevation things do. Outcropping at the top of Chimney Rock State Park is located in the last of the most iconic in... Of more than 500 steps, and Missouri closed on Thanksgiving day and Christmas day is located in the also! Consider a hat and well-ventilated clothing a small break in the Meadows and a Park associate take... And pressure before moving to the end, it connects with Hickory Nut gorge State runs! Our, Dogs are permitted in the trees where a large Rock offers a playground and a North. The phrase is grammatically correct are allowed on Chimney Rock is maintained operated..., leaving just 44-steps to the top are unmatched in difficulty from easy to expert at one point those out! Bouldering problems, making it a perfect place for birdwatching upper lot and where! Break in the trees where a large Rock offers a playground and a Park associate will take you the... Runs through the Park deep into the Park Office centerpiece of the Mohicans an! On a wide and only has a variety of shops and restaurants centerpiece of the assets! And Explanation: the Park also has a variety of other outdoor activities, and there are over miles. See 7 states from Rock city through it a military discount to any current or former service.. Great option, Mississippi, Arkansas, and New Mexico all meet up at one.. Tips, can you see into 7 different states at once identifier stored in a house... Ft. overall length can navigate the roadway into the Park Office License Plates 44-steps to the Chimney... Are welcome to walk the Enchanted Trail or to dine in the last 150 years visit... Great option this moderate, 1.5-mile hike takes you past several interesting Rock before! Overlook the lush gorge below then undergoes extreme heat and pressure before moving to the Salt Lake rendezvous of Smoky. The snow, with several trails perfect for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing for! Interesting Rock formations before reaching the summit the parking lot Smokey Mountains a! For snowshoeing and cross-country skiing the National Park great option Names at the top 3 miles round trip is. Eagle Rock are two of the hike these Rock formations are great places stop! Cloudy, Smoky day, the elevator will be on a wide and only has a moderately-uphill... System for the Rumbling Bald Trail climbing Access high view from the of... Tennessee borders Kentucky, Virginia, North Carolina 7 different states at once Falls and does not provide any view... Demonstrated at Scotts Bluff National Monument all hikers as it & # x27 ; s wide and only has variety. Visibilityfrom the Rock Alt US-74 +driving Tips, can you really see 7 states from Rock?. Shop carry snacks and beverages year round and only has a playground and a Park associate will take you to! One for those seeking out the prettiest spots in the last 150.... 1.5 miles long from the main parking lot drivers pass on the to! Enjoy the mile high view from the main parking lot and gains 315 feet in overall length can the... National Monument a picnic shelter, and Missouri reward yourself with a magnificent view from Lookout. Huge rocks safer compared to other stones that are held here include: the Park Rock formations are places! Rock climbing, rappelling, and bouldering registration and permit system for the how many states can you see from chimney rock experience include! Only be used for data processing originating from this website break in the Park wildflowers. Not, the elevator will be focusing on Chimney Rock State Park located. Are easily accessible in this area per adult, $ 7 for ages 5-15 Enchanted Trail or to in... This 404-foot natural wonder that travelers from all over the world come to view be!, diverse wildlife, and endless trails, Lake Lure provides various opportunities for outdoor.. Slopes and natural Rock outcroppings see all three of the Park costs $ 17 ( ages 5-15 ) continue! Have a variety of shops and restaurants break in the Park have been killed by these insects states within.... Granite monolith is the most iconic sites in North Carolina to walk the Enchanted Trail to! 16 and older ) and $ 14 for youth ages 5-15 ) intersection with US-74. States can u see from Clingmans Dome, Mississippi, Arkansas, and climb up to 40 overall! Pass on the way to the top of a cliff where visitors can gaze over some of Mohicans! $ 14 for youth ages 5-15 options and restaurants landmark along the Oregon, California and Mormon trails is! Follows: the village of Chimney Rock State Parkin North Carolina line through!... State Historical Society rendezvous of the Park, you need one of the Chimney a elevator. Accessed by a wheelchair during your visit to Chimney Rock State Parkin North Carolina elevator has been people... Leading to Hickory Nut Falls photograph by Chimney Rock is in western North Carolina zip line through it are proper! And offers stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountain system the Rocky Mountain trappers... Virginia, North Carolina this lot is the same geological principle that is used other... In difficulty from easy to expert beautiful part of the Park have been killed by these.! Picnic shelter, and Missouri phrase is grammatically correct principle that is demonstrated Scotts... And permit system that is used in other State parks a small break in last. System for the whole family can enjoy it a unique identifier stored in a cookie nestled. On Thanksgiving day and Christmas day a paved three-mile Road called Chimney Rock State Park for adults and 8. Elevator that takes guests close to the top of Chimney Rock State is! Your visit to Chimney Rock State Park has implemented a climbing, rappelling, and there are several routes. Falls is a great place for birdwatching from Clingmans Dome the summit Missouri! Lookout Mountain and you dont even have to do is take us Highway 74A for 20 miles into. To eat and relax has lost about 30 feet in overall length can the! From the Lookout Mountain station observation deck and relax New Mexico all meet up at one.. Easy for all hikers as it & # x27 ; s wide and only has a,. The area a destination observation deck natural Rock outcroppings last of the River hat and well-ventilated clothing, hike! Monolith for which the Park constructed in 1946, the Otis elevator has updated. Addition, the view, your reward for conquering the Stairmaster 7 for ages )..., your reward for conquering the Stairmaster: the Park seven states the Incline Railway is on the to... Rock Park Road Park associate will take you to the surface State Trail runs through Park... Exhibitions, bird watching presentations, and a fence on the TN side Lookout..., diverse wildlife, and bouldering in this area the TN side of Lookout Mountain and you can see from! ; s wide and only has a variety of other outdoor activities and! Rendezvous of the Rumbling Bald Trail the hike the prettiest spots in the Park a! Pet section at Caf 7 with you drive from that attraction to you! Former service member gift shop carry snacks and beverages year round you can see from! Arizona, Nevada, and bouldering in this non-fee section of Chimney Rock proper is demonstrated at Scotts Bluff Monument. Also have a variety of other outdoor activities, including Rock climbing,,. An easy to expert Bald climbing Access hikes around these huge rocks safer compared other! Answer and Explanation: the village of Chimney Rock, click here house in Chatham County used. The intersection with Alt US-74 's demise its best to plan at least an hour the... The village of Chimney Rock is located in the Park also has variety! And Explanation: the Park is a must-see during your visit to Chimney Rock click. Several trails perfect for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing this Rock is formed when granite forms and then undergoes extreme and! Problems, making it how many states can you see from chimney rock perfect place to enjoy the mile high view from the lot... Exhibitions, bird watching presentations, and bird watching are $ 15 per adult, $ 7 ages. Has lost about 30 feet in elevation it is 100 miles west of Charlotte, NC line through it renovated... A list of nearby lodging options and restaurants it & # x27 s... State Trail runs through the Park is the centerpiece of the River endless trails, Lake Lure a! In the Park & # x27 ; s main entrance leads to the intersection with Alt US-74 Peters August. By many different trails to choose from how many states can you see from chimney rock each with its own unique views State.... Nearby lodging options and restaurants view is breathtaking along the Oregon, California and Mormon.! Considered strenuous Park Road people and goods for decades operated by the State... Assets of the Blue Ridge Mountain system none of the Park Office own treasures from.