Chimney Rock State Park in North Carolina

Climb the 491 stairs on Outcroppings Trail to get to the top of Chimney Rock and see sweeping views of Lake Lure and Hickory Nut Gorge.

Author:: Staff
Publish date:: Jul 12, 2017

An aerial view of the flag and overlook on top of Chimney Rock

Seventy-five miles east of North Carolina's Cherokee entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park lies Chimney Rock State Park. Its namesake attraction is the 491-stair, 315-foot climb on Outcroppings Trail to a sweeping view of Lake Lure and the Hickory Nut Gorge below. On a clear day you can see up to 75 miles.

You can't see the falls from atop Chimney Rock, but the .75-mile Hickory Nut Falls Trail is a nice leisurely walk and it's pet friendly. The falls drops 404 feet and its mist feeds the plentiful wildflowers and birds surrounding the trail.

Traveler Tips:

A seasonal elevator to the Sky Lounge Patio makes the views accessible to everyone. It is currently being refurbished but is scheduled to reopen the Fall of 2017.

The new Skyline Trail opened spring 2017, which gives adventurous hikers even more views.

The view of Lake Lure from on top of Chimney Rock in North Carolina

Hickory Nut Falls in Chimney Rock State Park

For more information:
www.chimneyrockpark.com

An elk eating apples off the tree in Cataloochee Valley. Photo by Greg Gilbert via Flickr

Park Itineraries

It’s our nation’s busiest park, so here are tips on how to see the best of Great Smoky in just two days. Make the most of your time by visiting some of our favorite spots in both the Tenn. and N.C. sides of the park.

Sunset view at Newfound Gap in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Natural Wonders

If you want to feel like you are on top of the world, here are four fantastic views including a tower, a gap, and a sunrise-sunset hike.

The Sinks on the Little River

Natural Wonders

Feel the mist on your face on one of these top trips to the park’s impressive cascades. Some are seen right from the road. Others require a hike.

Kids on the Appalachian Trail in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Park Itineraries

Sweeping views that are easy to get to, many old historic buildings to explore, and picnic spots galore, make it one of the most family-friendly national parks in the east.

Hyatt Lane through Cades Cove in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Park Itineraries

Got 24 hours? Get the most out of them with this guide. Take a hike, touch the past, cruise a view, and more.

Log cabin in the mountains.

Park Itineraries

The park is a fantastic place to spend a romantic weekend, celebrate Valentine’s Day or an anniversary, or to just spend time together.

Abrams Falls. Photo by Mike Duffy

Outdoor Recreation

Lace up your hiking boots and get ready to see a whole new side of the Smokies on these amazing trips from 4 to 11 miles round trip.

A young elk buck peeks out from the forest on the edge of Cataloochee Valley in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

There are many types of animals in the Great Smoky Mountains, but dense forests can make them difficult to spot. Here’s a guide to better your chances.

Smoky Hiking Guide Feature

Options for trails and what to expect on the hike, from a moderate walk to a waterfall to a strenuous hike to the top of a mountain.