Chimney Rock Travel Guide

Chimney Rock offers an escape to the mountains, with this town in North Carolina being a popular vacation spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Chimney Rock gives visitors the best of both worlds; an outdoor adventure awaits in Chimney Rock State Park, while the western town at the summit offers shops and restaurants to enjoy leisurely. From exhilarating hikes with stunning scenery to souvenir shopping, visitors have all they need in Chimney Rock. Shopping opportunities include gift shop, outdoor clothing stores and arts and pottery. When it comes to eating, there are cafés and delis to chill out or grab a snack to go.

Things to Do in Chimney Rock

Top things include exploring the wonders of Chimney Rock State Park. Visitors can make it all the way to the top by climbing 500 steps or taking the elevator. The summit boasts gorgeous views over the surrounding forests, Lake Kure and Hickory Nut Gorge. The Four Seasons Trail takes visitors through hardwood forest and wildflowers, while the Hickory Nut Falls Trail leads to a waterfall. There's also the Rocky Broad River trail for a less strenuous walk. For some evening family activities, make your way to Chimney Rock Gemstone Mine or the Chimney Rock Adventure Golf.

Best Time to Visit Chimney Rock

The best time to visit Chimney Rock is during the summer months. In addition, for the yellow, orange and red colors on the trees and spectacular scenery, visit Chimney Rock in fall.

Cabins in Chimney Rock

The quaint village of Chimney Rock in western North Carolina gets its name from the large granite outcropping location above the town. The steps up provide easy access to some stunning mountain views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, as well as views of Chimney Rock village itself and Lake Lure NC. The Chimney Rock State Park is one of the few places on earth to have an elevator inside a mountain, and allows people of all ages to ascend to the top.

An absolute must-see is of Hickory Nut Falls, which is 404-foot casade of water on the Rocky Broad River. Well known for its role in Dirty Dancing, Lake Lure beach is a sanctuary for relaxation, while the nearby Bat Cave is ideal for budding photographers.

The town offers a huge range of vacation rentals, all with something a little different to offer. Many are pet-friendly and have fully equipped kitchens, while some even come with a hot tub. For a more unique vacation rental, there are a few log cabins in Chimney Rock NC. A vacation home in Lake Lure and Chimney Rock provide a cozy backdrop to escape city life.