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    Chimney Rock State Park

    4.3 (266 reviews)
    Open 8:30 am - 5:30 pm

    Chimney Rock State Park Photos

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    View from lookout
    Wendy P.

    Excellent area definitely worth the $17 entry fee have access to the park all day. Unbelievable views.

    John B.

    Most NC state parks are free. Indeed, I thought all of them were until I landed here where there is a robust per person admission charge. After paying this, the road that leads up the mountain is twisty, narrow, and often without guardrails, which is the sort of thing that irks me more having just paid the $17 to get in. The main attraction, though is an impressive rock and the boardwalks and stairs around it were quite built out and in much better condition than the road. There is also an elevator to get to the chimney. I decided to burn some calories and take the stairs up, which offers some nice views but will take a lot out of you. A wildlife program was going on, but it was crowded, so I just headed down to a waterfall. It is an impressive waterfall. Of course, Western North Carolina is just full of spectacular falls so it's not like there aren't a ton of other ones you could see without paying an admission fee, but if you're at the rock you might as well see the falls. While kids were playing in the water beneath where there is no other drop off nearby, a ranger cautioned that getting in the water was forbidden, and to show them why demonstrated several snakes sitting near the water's edge. And then explained that these were non-venomous snakes. This all seemed kind of ridiculous to me; it seems to me that people can get in the water in most of these places without getting attacked by reptiles (unlike in South Carolina). There are some drawbacks, but the sights are certainly majestic enough to warrant a visit at the end of the day.

    Grotto on a foggy day
    Alison M.

    Well - my plans for a visit to Chimney Rock did not go as planned - since it rained all day long and the fog had set in by the time I arrived. Heavily. I still rode the elevator, walked all around, saw the waterfall and several viewpoints and enjoyed myself. Friendly staff in the shops assisted me with finding some keepsakes and also gave me some tips of things to see and do easily in the rain. I spent probably 3-4 hours here and had a good time and tried to make the best of it. Good news is - I had the park mostly to myself all day!

    Entry to the park
    Mike B.

    We came here on July 3rd in the early afternoon. We had read some information on the park and knew there was an elevator option to access the rock summit versus trekking up the steep mountain. Visitors enter the park in the Village of Chimney Rock. We were surprised to see the highly commercialized village of Chimney Rock. There are many restaurants, mini golf, gift shops, etc., which to us is not appealing. Entry to the park is $17/per adult which feels like a lot. They do offer a military / veterans discount dropping the price to $15. We proceeded to the parking lot area which was very busy, likely due to the holiday weekend. We were directed where to park and proceeded to the area in which the shuttles provide access to the base of Chimney Rock. There is a gift shop and visitors can catch the elevator or begin walking the steps. The shuttles appear to operate in an orderly fashion transporting people up the steep, curvy road. Our best guess is that when the park is not as busy, visitors are able to drive up to the upper parking lot quite easily but the shuttles are likely used during the summer and/or busier times of the year. The shuttle dropped us off about 100 yards short of the tunnel entrance and we took our place in line within the tunnel. The cave itself is impressive, it is 198 feet in length and has occasional signage letting you know of the process of blasting through the mountain. We waited about 25-30 minutes total for our turn on the elevator. The maximum occupancy is 8 and there is an elevator operator who manages the number of people per elevator trip. The elevator quickly takes you up 26 stories and when the doors open you are within a building which houses restrooms, another gift shop and small snack bar. Walking out of the building, you can immediately see for miles. On this day the skies were somewhat hazy from the Canadian wildfires but it was still impressive. We walked up a small staircase to Chimney Rock and took a few pictures while admiring the view. We decided to take the elevator down because an afternoon thunderstorm was approaching and we ended up getting cooled off by a downpour which started shortly after we got back on the bus towards our vehicle. Overall, we are glad we came but this is not one of those places we will likely return. Once is enough, on to other experiences.

    Jeffrey J.

    My family and I had a fantastic time at Chimney Rock State Park. Chimney Rock - located in Rutherford County North Carolina - is a wonderful nature area to visit. Chimney Rock has ten trails ranging from easy to difficult. My son, daughter, and I decided to do all the trails plus Chimney Rock. It was definitely worth it because the scenery, views, and water features were out of this world. To enter the park is $17 for Adults, $8 for 5-15 Youth, and 4 under is free. Also if you are apart of AAA you can get a couple of dollars of your tickets. However though if you have children I would recommend them being 12 and older because some of the trails are dangerous if children are left unattended. If you do bring the little ones food and drinks are allowed in the park and their are a couple of picnic tables along the trails, but they are limited. If you are a pet lover, you can hike with your dogs because chimney Rock allows pets. In regards to the trails, if you have problems with your legs, I would not recommend Chimney Rock State Park because there is a lot of steps, hills, and rocks that you have to hike or climb over. However though there is an elevator that will take you half way up to the iconic Chimney Rock and the elevator is included in your ticket with no extra cost My family decided to take the 500 steps up to the rock and after we were done we decided to take the elevator and it was pretty cool because it only takes a couple of minutes to get to the rock. In addition, Chimmney Rock has a bathroom at the beginning of the trails and it is very clean with beautiful murals inside, and a gift shop that offers ice cream.I will say the parking lot has limited space but they do have an overflow lot with a shuttle. I would definitely recommend getting there right when they open at 8:30am or go during the off season because the trails are less crowded. Furthermore, when entering Chimney Rock State Park you will drive through the village of Chimney Rock with an array of local shops. I would definitely recommend walking around and checking out the shops and local restaurants. Before packing for your trip to Chimney Rock State Park don't forget your camera, hiking boots, water, and snacks because you will not regret the experience. I will be definitely planning my next trip to Chimney Rock soon.

    AJ S.

    All I can say is it's worth the 17.00 to see these beautiful mountains! Heights are not my favorite needless to say, however I decided not today and went! I'm glad I did! There are shuttles that will take you up to where you can either take the elevator or do the stairs. Also, inside the rock place you can get snacks such as hot dogs ,pretzels etc and even ice cream. Several trails you can do which will ultimately take you back to the bottom of the mountain. If you are in this area I highly recommend coming . I do advise please no hills , wedges and such. This is one place you need to be dressed shoe wise for safety if you plan to do the trails.

    Christian E.

    A MUST go if in the area!! Get there at opening to beat the crowds. We got there at 9am on a Thursday and were the 3rd ones up. It was so peaceful to have the area to ourselves. By 930 the crowds came. The elevator through the cave was nice. The bathrooms are all painted like the rock and looked nice. Everytime was helpful & friendly. The hike to the falls is a must & so beautiful!!

    Peanut the Chipmunk!
    Ashley S.

    We visited in mid-January, and there were several other families and guests. But that was it - just several! It was wide open, and every view is gorgeous. Some things to note - in the winter the park closes early (check the website for the exact times); the restaurants and delis/cafes are not open midweek during winter (Tues/Wed); pay attention to the signs at the beginning of trails to know how long the trail lasts, where restrooms are, etc. We started our visit at the Animal Discovery Den to visit the chipmunk, then we hiked Hickory Nut Trail to the waterfall, and we took the elevator to Chimney Rock. We decided to save some energy for Exclamation Point and half of the Skyline Trail. If you love hiking, this park is the place to be!! We saw a chipmunk in the wild on Skyline Trail, so that made all the hiking worth it for me!!

    Smashing Pennies at Chimney Rock SP
    Dave O.

    3500th Review It's a little after 8:30 AM the day after Labor Day, looks like all the kids are back in school and this place is like a ghost town but not in an eerie way, although the three mile ride up the mountain from the downtown park entrance with its canopy covered switchbacks somewhat resembles a drive into the unknown, daylight does reappears at the parking lot at the base at this natural wonder. This 315-foot granite monolith is breathtaking not only because of its beauty but for the stairs which are everywhere and number more than 500 steps, of course there are small landings designated as resting places for the weary so bring your water bottle and hydrate before you start the journey. Unlike Stonehenge and the Great Pyramids, Chimney Rock is a reminder of not what man has built believe me there are no extraterrestrial conspiracy theories here, it's all mother nature that has shaped this with her firm and patient hands, both smoothing and sharply cutting its surface for nearly 535-million years.   At one end of this enormous mountain there is the Hickory Nut Falls Trail which ends at a great waterfall that appears to be spilling from the heavens, it caresses the smooth vertical surfaces of granite working its way down over some 400-feet. The showering waters of the falls creates a mysterious spectacle that dances over a shallow pool that gathers before falling again in a mountain stream to the river far below. After leaving the falls and making my way back to the towering monolith I got the feeling as though I was being watch by the forest this mysterious geological phenomenon comes from the rock faces that are filled with an abundance of white oval shaped eyes embedded in the rocks, although most are somewhat concealed they are real and I believe they have been watching over mother nature's creation for centuries, the rustling leafs whisper, haunting sections of the trail. I could feel my heart rate increase with every step as I transitioned the elevation changes as if I was fighting the transgressions of those that walked this path before me. I quicken my pace as I approached mid point of the trail I attribute this to the natural decline of the topography and maybe my anticipation of reaching the lower staircase that leads back to the parking area and in my mine civilization. I find running up the stairs and taking short breaks is much less stressful and gets you to the adjective much sooner than slowly and laboriously taking one step at a time, beside I was looking for the restroom which is topside, these are usually well maintained and the cool water from the hand sink was so refreshing as I splashed it against my face only to find there are no paper towels and that jet dryer just wasn't an option so I just shook it off once I exited before heading to the gift shop. I got a small refrigerator magnet for the RV and smashed a penny to document my trip here and to check off another item from the bucket list...

    Qiongqiong M.

    Great place for a short hike or more like climb up stairs. The view was pretty good but nothing too impressive I want to say. Came here on a weekday when it was less crowded. Still enjoyed it.

    View from Opera  box
    Natalie S.

    Beautiful scenic views from this park. They have a lot of facilities (bathrooms, cafe and a store). Enjoyed the hike to Chimney Rock and the waterfalls.

    Observation area on rock tower.
    Don J.

    Beautiful park with many excellent trails and even more beautiful views. It's a little expensive to get admission but after that it's a blast. Only real negative is the crazy narrow and windy road.

    Lameka S.

    If you're a person that likes the mountains with a little but of hiking mixed in then you're going to love Chimney Rock State Park. It was $17 per person to enter the park. It's about a3 mile drive to Chimney Rock. Upon arrival you can elect to take the elevator to the top or hike it. Theres a gift shop down below and up top and also a place that sells snacks. If you're hiking remember to bring water and maybe a protein snack. Once you get to the top the views are breathtaking! Bask in the views you will enjoy it.

    Some lovely plant life in summer

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    Ask the Community - Chimney Rock State Park

    Review Highlights - Chimney Rock State Park

    I still rode the elevator, walked all around, saw the waterfall and several viewpoints and enjoyed myself.

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    Rumbling Bald State Park

    Rumbling Bald State Park

    4.5(2 reviews)
    1.7 mi

    If you like the outdoors and some big rocks and cliffs, come check out this State Park. The park…read moreis one of the cooler State parks in North Carolina that I have had the pleasure of experiencing. I am a mountain type of person and I am really glad that public access has been provided to these cliffs and this Area. Rumbling Bald park host several great hiking trails through massive boulder fields and spectacular hardwood forests. The main draw for the park has to be for Bouldering and Rock Climbing. While hiking or walking through the woods in the winter/spring it is certain you'll see lots of people climbing up and down rocks. Thanks to the park staff for creating a viable parking lot for the park too. When you come here make sure to try and park as closely together as you can. It can get packed on the weekends. Also, don't double park or block anyone, or else you'll get a ticket. I really hope they access can be opened to the other cliff areas around the lake, like Ghost Town and the Darkside, which are currently closed.. 1 suggestion is to avoid this place in the summer, as it turns into a oven with the south-facing rocks, and there is poison ivy all over the place. Go enjoy the outdoor wander around some rocks.

    This park is perfect for climbers and bouldering. The hike during the summer months does not…read moreprovide views unless you're willing to do a little climbing to escape the canopy. However, it's a beautiful trail, and I would bet full of views in the winter.

    Photos
    Rumbling Bald State Park - Boulders

    Boulders

    Rumbling Bald State Park - Rock Walls of rumbling bald

    Rock Walls of rumbling bald

    Rumbling Bald State Park

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    The Paul & Elsie Matthews Overlook

    The Paul & Elsie Matthews Overlook

    5.0(1 review)
    1.6 mi

    This is beautiful roadside overlook that provides you easy access to the waters of the Rocky Broad,…read morethere are a few parking spaces that runs perpendicular to the road. There are signs posted designating the space as well as a trash barrel - the split rail fence offers you a great view but you'll definitely want to get closer to the water's edge, this requires you to dip under the top railing and maneuver down a rocky bank that has an elevation change of no more than ten feet (the mid-railing is missing in this one spot only that's next to the trash dispenser) I didn't see any signage that would prevent you from accessing the lower level however it's definitely not an improved trail so proceed with caution the terrain is uneven and if wet could be very slippery. Once you transverse the hazards it's all giant boulders and sand, the rocks provide an obstacle course of adventure and some element of danger so good footwear is a must flip flops and bare-feet may add to the risk. The water is beautiful and well worth the effort. This place is often referred to as a beach, it's not like any I've experienced but I liked it. I was definitely interested in finding out something about the namesake and the following information is some of what I've found after doing a short search: Paul Matthews was born Dec 25, 1866 and died January 17, 1954. He was the Episcopal Bishop of New Jersey from 1915 to 1937. He married his wife Elsie Proctor (from the family of Proctor & Gamble) - it seems Paul had respiratory issues and the clean mountain air provided him some relief so he purchased some property and the rest is history. There no doubt Paul and Elsie Matthews had a positive financial impact on the area and this overlook was one way to acknowledge their contribution. It's worth a few minutes of your time and is a great spot to take a break or enjoy a cool drink and a snack in the shade...

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    The Paul & Elsie Matthews Overlook
    The Paul & Elsie Matthews Overlook
    The Paul & Elsie Matthews Overlook

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    Lake Lure Beach and Water Park - Lake Lure

    Lake Lure Beach and Water Park

    3.1(8 reviews)
    1.2 mi

    This little gem, located just a few minutes away from the entrance of Chimney Rock, through a long…read morewinding road, is a cute little beach area, with lifeguards, maintained sand, a splash pad area, water ballon fight area, 2 water slides, concession stands and bathrooms with changing areas. The hours vary, from late spring to the end of summer and you really need to check before you take the ride there, cause we have went to find them closed. The website is wrong. The staff is usually teenagers, which make you really hope there is no real emergency, because they usually are cutting up and chatting while on duty. But most of the time, very friendly and helpful. The bathrooms here are pretty sketchy, so don't plan on them being clean, but they do function. There are ducks at this lake. If you bring food, they will swarm you. Even if it is fried chicken. Don't leave your chips open. If it is a prime summer day, other people's kids will run over you. Your space is their space to throw footballs, frisbees, sand, listen to loud mumble rap, etc. Don't expect to have a load of room here. It's a small beach. This is not ocean water. It is lake water. It's dirty. It's murky. Remember those ducks? They poop in there, and you can tell. But, if you love really nice scenery, like a beach in the middle of the mountains, you will not get a view like this.

    As far as lake beaches go, it is nice. But let's remember, this is NOT A REAL beach! $52 for a…read morefamily of five which includes a splash pad, shelter house, and...um... a lake. If your 8 year old sees the "water park" (of which the big slide from the pictures no longer exists), extra $10/person. Nice kayaks! Sorry not included. Lifeguards on their phones. I could go on. Want the beach, go to a real one. Should be $3-5 a person

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    Lake Lure Beach and Water Park - Splash pad

    Splash pad

    Lake Lure Beach and Water Park - View of the beach and lake

    View of the beach and lake

    Lake Lure Beach and Water Park - Water slide line

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    Water slide line

    Chimney Rock State Park - parks - Updated June 2026

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