Can you drive up to Chimney Rock?


Can you drive up to Chimney Rock? Top of the Rock: To reach the top of Chimney Rock, drive up a three-mile winding road to a large parking area. Then climb 500 steps to the chimney or ride the elevator and climb a short staircase to the top. On a clear day, enjoy 75-mile views overlooking Lake Lure and the Hickory Nut Gorge.


What is so special about Chimney Rock?

Chimney Rock has become one of the most famous landmarks in the American West, largely due to its stop along the Oregon Trail. This unique formation came to symbolize the greatest voluntary migration in the history of mankind.


How many stairs are on the Chimney Tops Trail?

Hiking up the Chimney Tops Trail is one of the most popular trails in the national park. The trail is popular due to its short length, and awesome mountain views at the top. With over 1,400 feet in elevation gain, and more than 360 stones stairs to climb the view at the top you know is bound to be spectacular!


How long of a hike is chimney tops?

Chimney Tops Trail is a four-mile (RT) “out and back” with an elevation rise of 1,400 feet over two miles. The first mile is a challenging 400+ feet elevation change.


Can you swim at Chimney Rock?

Take a boat tour of the Lake, play on the beach, swim, hike, mountain bike, climb a shear rock face, fish, boat, kayak or just relax.


Is Chimney Rock an easy hike?

Hiking at Chimney Rock (Also see our Hiking Guide.) Hickory Nut Falls Trail: This easy trail is a wide, gently rolling path to the bottom of the 404-ft. Hickory Nut Falls waterfall. The 1.5-mile round-trip trail is mostly wooded with just a few moderate uphill sections.


Does Chimney Rock have waterfalls?

The 404-ft. tall Hickory Nut Falls at Chimney Rock State Park is one of the highest waterfalls east of the Mississippi. Take a beautiful woodland hike on an easy 3/4-mile trail to enjoy an up-close view at its base from a platform.