Chimney Rock State Park
Chimney Rock
A granite monolith about 96 meters tall standing at the edge of a cliff. From the summit, you can look out over Lake Lure. The site was a filming location for “The Last of the Mohicans.”
Chimney Rock is a single granite column rising from the mountain. You can reach the top by elevator or by climbing about 500 steps, and from the summit you can see Lake Lure and the valley below. Hickory Nut Falls, a waterfall about 123 meters high in the park, was also used as a filming location. In 2024, Hurricane Helene severely damaged the town below and the roads. The park has been reopening in phases since 2025. Check the official website for the status of trails and the elevator, and buy tickets in advance. The park is about 45 minutes' drive from Asheville and can be combined with a visit to Lake Lure.
Opening hours
Approx. 08:30–17:30 (varies by season)
Nearby sights
- Lake Lure
- Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site
- Folk Art Center
- Western North Carolina Nature Center
- Craggy Gardens
- Biltmore Village
- Biltmore Estate
- Mount Mitchell State Park