Chimney Rock State Park
A granite spire above Hickory Nut Gorge reached by a lift shaft blasted through the mountain in the 1940s.
Updated 21 October 2026
The chimney is a granite monolith standing about ninety metres clear of the mountainside with a flag on top and a view down Hickory Nut Gorge to Lake Lure. Getting up it is the unusual part: in the 1940s a shaft was blasted eighty metres into the rock and a lift installed inside the mountain, so visitors ride up through solid granite and step out near the top - the alternative is a stairway of around five hundred steps. Hickory Nut Falls further along the trail drops about 120 metres. The park was private until the state bought it in 2007. Hurricane Helene in September 2024 caused heavy damage to the village and gorge below.
What you'll find
- A granite spire about ninety metres clear - with the gorge below.
- A lift inside the mountain - through an eighty-metre blasted shaft.
- Hickory Nut Falls - around 120 metres, along the trail.
- A view to Lake Lure - down the length of the gorge.
When to go
April to October, subject to access. Half a day.
What to expect
Hurricane Helene struck the gorge and village in 2024 and recovery is ongoing. The lift has been out of service for extended periods historically. Stairs are the alternative and there are many. Autumn weekends are busy.
Nearby
Lake Lure is below; Asheville is west.
Key facts
Source: Wikidata, item Q3364034, read on 18 October 2026.
What to pack for Chimney Rock State Park
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
- Broken-in walking shoes or boots - Grip and ankle support matter more than looks; never hike in brand-new boots. Find on Amazon
- Layers + a waterproof shell - Mountain weather turns fast; a packable rain jacket saves the day. Find on Amazon
- Daypack with rain cover - 20-30 litres holds water, snacks, layers and a first-aid kit. Find on Amazon
- Offline maps + a power bank - Download the trail before you lose signal; carry backup charge. Find on Amazon
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