This park has a wonderful history of how it came to be. There is an option to purchase tickets upon arrival, but I recommend purchasing online because it makes entering the park much faster. There is a line when waiting to get into the park, but it moves fairly swiftly. The rangers were available once reaching the attraction parking area to keep things orderly which is much appreciated. Trails were clearly marked and maps were provided along with maps/signs available throughout the park trails. Option to take the elevator or walk to the summit, but we walked. It was simply too pretty out to miss out on a walk. I appreciated the cool air because it kept sweating to a minimum 😂. Although it is winter the vistas we're still breathe taking. I would visit again. The only recommendation I would make is that the guard rails on the drive to/from the Chimney Rock really needs updating. Although few were in disrepair it's rather unnerving that the only thing that kept you from falling off the side of the mountain were these wooden guard rails. What about metal? Aren't those better?

This is a beautiful place to visit. I will start by saying be prepared for the cost. Adults were $17/piece and youth $8. Adults are over 12 years old. I would recommend planning a whole day to make it worth the cost. It was $150 for our families of 10 people. Most of us climbed all the way up, a few in the group used the elevator which was nice. We were all able to converge at the top and enjoy the view. Wish we had planned more time to spend in the park and fully explore more of the features they had to offer and maybe packed a lunch to enjoy in the park. We went later than originally planned waiting for a storm to pass and had planned lunch in town so it seemed a bit steep (pun intended) for only about 2 hours. Part of that time was spent in the gift shop, spending more money. 😄 The views were breathtaking and the closest I will ever come to rock climbing as I am deathly afraid of heights. For the most part I felt completely secure, except the steps were not directly against the rock face. Never looked down though.

Beautiful park with amazing views! You can admire the landscape that surrounds the monolith. Areas such as Lake Lure and the mountains around look fantastic from the rock. There are several trails with different intensities, but you can enjoy nature all around. The Hickory Nut Falls is a must-see. The trail is just 1.5 miles, and most of it is smooth and easy to walk. I highly recommend this State Park!

BRING YOUR WALKING SHOES!! This place is beautiful but there’s a lotttt of stairs. You can choose your own path and trails, so you can do what you feel comfortable with. We ended up doing every trail which totaled about 6 miles, 4hrs of time. There aren’t a lot of water fountains along the way to fill up your water bottle, be prepared for that. The best trail is the one that takes you to the bottom of the waterfall. It’s beautiful. Get there early to be the crowds.

This place is fantastic. The views were spectacular. If you can't hike the stairs there is an elevator you can take to get to a beautiful spot to take pictures. There is a snack/souvenir shop at the top of the elevator area. If you are able there is further up you can hike to see even more beautiful views. Well worth the trek.

Beautiful place, be ready to climb the over 400 steps to the top. Get your water ready, and wear comfortable sneakers. The hike and stairs climb to the waterfall was insane long can't feel my legs. Watch for the slippery rocks by the water. Watch out for snakes. No bats in the bat cave but it was interesting. The view is amazing. You can opt out to take the elevator to the top of the Chimney rock. There's a gift shop and mini deli up top, and enough tables and chairs to relax and take in the view.

If you plan on going and want to go to the top, the elevator is not working and you will have to climb many steps to reach the top. View is spectacular. The place gets busy as the day progresses. Suggest getting there early, especially if you want to hike to the Hickory Nut Falls.

Such an amazing view. You can take an elevator 26 stories to the top or hike it. There were not a lot of people there and it was so quiet at the top. There is a shop and little Cafe you can stop at before climbing the steps onto the rock. It was nice to sit and look at the view.

A great place to visit and a wonderful view from the top. This is a state park located in Chimney Park. The initial entrance takes you across a bridge into the park proper. The ticket plaza is about 2 miles inside the park and the cost for adults is $17. This may seem like a lot but there are several things to see and do in the park. The park offers a discovery Den, 2 gift shops, about 6 trails, and several unique features including a waterfall. If you want to go to Chimney rock the easiest way is to drive up the mountain on very skinny switchbacked roads to the parking areas near the top. On busy days parking can get very limited so get there early or go on weekdays. This is one of the only parks that I have visited that offers visitors an elevator to the upper level. The elevator entrance is through a tunnel cut into a mountain that looks really cool. A person runs the elevator and told us that the park can get very busy and wait times can be very long. We took the elevator and a short walk through the gift shop brought us to a walkway with a beautiful view. A short walk up some steps and you are at the top of Chimney Rock. The view is spectacular and worth the visit. Enjoy.

Are you someone who loves to hike and embrace the hidden unmolested beauties that mother nature has to offer? Are you a photographer looking for your next breathtaking project that will leave anyone who views your work in awe & feeling a sudden attraction to the mountains? Are you tired of spending your free time visiting the same mundane places and go to bed thinking "Wow, I just spend $25 on a hamburger while listening to John & Amy talk about their cat, and I don't even like those people."? If you answered yes, then clear your schedule and head to Chimney Rock! (If you answered no, then you're lying to yourself and should go to Chimney Rock anyway) With unmatched gorgeous views 😍, friendly & helpful staff, and easy-to-folow trails, Chimney Rock is a trip you don't want to miss! Looking to go on a hike where you can see the top of a waterfall? Yup, they have it! Prefer to view your water from the ground perspective, fall from the top of a mountain, while standing IN the waterfall? You got it! Want to test your endurance by climbing stairs that weave in, under, & THROUGH the mountain? Buckle up, buddy! 🏞 Whether you tone your calves & take the stairs like a man, or opt for the elevator to "experience the mechanical ingenuity" like a more inquisitive man, you will soon find yourself slapped in the face with Old Glory proudly staking its ground atop this unique formation that is Chimney Rock. Don't be alarmed if you hear yourself say, "Damn, I love this country 🇺🇲" sounding exactly like Sam Elliott.

Chimney Rock is a very nice state park with a good deal of hiking and stunning views. The elevator allows you to bypass much of the walking if stairs aren't your thing (we would have done it the hard way except our two year old gets extra silly on stairs). The elevator access is back through a cave which would be amazing on a hot day given the cool, damp atmosphere and has lots of informational signage along the way so you have something to read if the line is backed up. There was no wait at all for us on a Sunday morning. After going up and taking in the views, we checked out the gift shops which had lots of neat items available. There is a diner there for hungry travellers but we weren't needing to eat during our visit. At the lower lot you have the Animal Den which is a small but nice area with some local wildlife and some educational stations. Behind it is a child-friendly 0.4 mile (loop) hiking trail which was quite enjoyable for the whole family. A staff member told us it was probably stroller friendly but we left the stroller in the car anyway, and that person clearly didn't have any kids because the trail is most certainly NOT stroller friendly. Overall we had a fun time visiting and would be happy to explore it some more when our kid is old enough to really enjoy the hikes (luckily, entry for kids his age is free).

Absolutely beautiful place! We went a few weeks ago and the views were amazing, plus the towns nearby were great to visit as well! To start, the price of admission is $17 per adult to get in. I definitely recommend driving up or parking in the lot then taking the trolley up to the top. Especially if you are not used to hiking because the trail is mostly an uphill hike. So we decided to drive up to the higher parking area after hiking the trail. Once you drive up to the top parking lot area, there's a gift shop you can visit. Then, to reach Chimney Rock you can either take the stair hike or take the elevator up into the mountain. There's another gift shop and ice cream shop up there to get some souvenirs and treats. This was definitely worth the visit and we will be back again!

We went to Chimney Rock with our daughter, son-in-law, and grandchildren (ages 4, 7, and 9). I was worried about going up the elevator and walking up the steps to the Rock. It was easy. The elevator was a very smooth ride. The steps to Chimney Rock are very sturdy. I just kept my eyes on the person in front of me. I made a point not to look down, and all went well. I felt very safe on top of the rocks. All of my grandchildren loved it! The views are spectacular! It's totally worth it to go to the top. There are trails that lead to higher points with even greater views. I hope to get in better shape to hike there.

We stopped here while road tripping up to Michigan from Florida. What a great stop! The view from the top of the mountain is stunning! Since we had our RV attached to our truck, we parked at the bottom of the mountain and a free shuttle to the top was provided for us. We stopped at the gift shop then opted to take the elevated in the cave to the top instead of hiking up the trail and stairs. Stunning views at the top of Chimney Rock! Then we hike over to the Honey Nut Falls. Again, so stunning! Worth the short hike. We then got shuttled back to the truck and RV then continued o our way to Kentucky.

Me and my wife had a great time we enjoyed it a lot of walking have good walking shoes. Beautiful overlook at The Valley could see for miles. We want to come back soon. Hopefully when pop up storms isn't in the forecast. We want to hike to the water fall we didn't have time to do it because of rain and lightning.

Accessing Chimney Rock is a straightforward process. Simply take the shuttle from the parking area, then ride the elevator to the gift shop. From there, it’s just a short climb up the stairs to reach the Chimney. However, please note that to fully appreciate the view of the Chimney, you’ll need to climb many more stairs along the trails on the side. The effort is well worth it, as the view from the top is truly spectacular.

Chimney rock and the falls nearby were spectacular. Found it on a map and looked interesting, so went to check it out. No regrets. Was a bit taken aback at first by the entry fee, a bit more than expected for a state park. But 10000% worth it. Rock was gorgeous, facilities were great, convenient elevator up to the top. Everything was well maintained and staff was helpful and knowledgeable. The sandwiches at the restaurant at the top were surprisingly good for a touristy place, as well. Between the rock, the view points around it and the hike to the falls (top or base), can easily spend a full day here.

Absolutely beautiful. The hike to the top of the waterfall was somewhat difficult. I'm in pretty decent shape. But I was also drinking wine the whole time so that may have had an effect. Very worth the visit though!

A beautiful state park. Last of the Mohican's was filmed by the waterfalls. Plenty of parking. Lots of trails to hike. No camping but there is a lodge, and several stores. You must climb Chimney Rock! See photos!

The view from the top of the rock during October is phenomenal! Be ready for steep steps and if you are feeling adventurous you can climb even higher. Gorgeous views and trails. Make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks. There are no bathrooms once you get past the Chimney Rock.

Beautiful view. Waterfall did not have much water this time of year. A lovely trail in the woods. Make sure to give 3 hours here minimum. Especially if it is a day they make you take the shuttle.

We loved this place! The fall leaves were still lingering, and it was so beautiful! The grounds are well maintained and there are trails to hike on the way up. There is an elevator tobtge top and then a gift shop with snack bar with a seating area with amazing views. Lots of great views even if you are unable to climb the couple flight of stairs to the flag. At the very top. Even more great views. This is a must do, when in this area.

Spectacular scenery! Great hiking and the trails are well kept. Elevation will take you up to 2,480 ft. The elevator is very convenient, getting you to the upper gift shop, for those not able to do stairs. Unfortunately, it will not get you to the top of Chimney Rock.

An iconic landmark in a very beautiful park. The view from the upper tracks is simply stunning and worth the climb. Don't neglect the Hickory Nuts Forest Falls, to be visited possibly at the time the sun starts to light the falls directly for some stunning light effects. Nice stores and restaurants in the village below. A very pleasant visit.

Chimney Rock State Park, nestled in North Carolina's mountainous terrain, offers a breathtaking blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. The park's centerpiece, Chimney Rock, presents a majestic sight, towering over the surrounding landscape. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views from the top, accessible via a scenic hiking trail or an elevator. The park is also home to the striking Hickory Nut Falls, a 404-foot waterfall that adds to the area's serene beauty. The diverse flora and fauna within the park contribute to a vibrant ecosystem, where nature enthusiasts can indulge in bird watching or simply relish the tranquility of the forest. For the more adventurous, the park offers rock climbing and a range of hiking trails varying in difficulty, making it a versatile destination for all levels of outdoor enthusiasts. However, the park is not without its drawbacks. First-time visitors might find the entry fee a bit steep, and during peak tourist seasons, the park can become crowded, which might detract from the experience of solitude in nature. Also, some trails can be quite challenging for inexperienced hikers, and the limited dining options within the park might be a downside for those looking to spend a full day exploring. Overall, Chimney Rock State Park is a gem for those seeking to immerse themselves in nature's splendor, though it's best enjoyed outside of peak seasons and with some preparation for the rugged terrain.

Almost 500 stairs to go up to the rock. Beautiful views are worth the steps. (They do have an elevator, too) Make sure to arrive early so you can enjoy the water fall and going up on the rock to enjoy the view.

Easy to access via the elevator from the upper parking lot. If you wish for a more challenging approach, park at the lower lot and take their trail up to the upper lot. From the elevator the lookout is an easy access, but the best view is from the top of the adjacent tower attached to the cliff side; if you're willing to make the climb.

What a stunner of a State Park. I was really impressed at the roads on the way up the mountain. All the stairs are in great condition with fantastic railings! I do struggle a bit with heights, but was able to easily make it all the way to “Exclamation Point” and along the Skyline Trail to the top of the falls. I can’t wait to go back on a day when it’s foggy and the peaks break out through the low cloud cover!

Very busy place on the weekends but great views of Lake Lure from up there. There’s a visitor center which sells souvenirs and sandwiches, ice cream and more after you get through exploring the trails. Devils Head was an awesome rock formation that wasn’t too hard of a hike up however this place has A LOT of stairs to climb. They do have an elevator that takes you up most of the way but you will still have to climb some stairs. Also they have shuttle buses to take you from parking lot up to entrance which is super nice. We really enjoyed our visit here.

We loved this! My sister and nephew (18mo) were able to partially join us because of the elevator to the top! The stairs were easy, the views incredible! I want to go back in the fall. We did the kids nature walk with my nephew at the end which was super cute and had animal statues for him to see. Just note: it does cost to get in so be prepared to pay!

I was visiting the area from Central Florida. This was a must do while in the area. We drove 3 mi to the guard gate to purchase our tickets and then it was just a short drive to the parking area. We the got in the elevator which took us 26 stories up to this summit. What a spectacular view from the summit. The weather was phenomenal. We could see from miles and miles! We also visited the gift shop which had a great assortment of souvenirs, hats t-shirts and many other gift items. They also have a snack shop where refreshments were being sold. A great time was had by all and we will have memories to share a lifetime! If you're in the area or plan on it make this park a part of your adventures. This is a definite must do for all the family. I will definitely recommend to friends and family ! Thank you chimney Rock for the memories I will share a lifetime!

New Favorite Hike! I've lived in NC for 40+ years and don't know how I ever managed to miss out on this hike--what a gem! Lots of climbing and elevation gain for those looking to work up a sweat and get a good workout (but don't fret if that's not you because there is an elevator that takes you to the top if you prefer to go that route). There are majestic mountain views and a stunning waterfall too! Plus the neighboring towns of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure are super cute with plenty of unique shops, rustic cabins, and interesting cafes...absolutely love the small town feel! Additionally, they offer week day "animal encounters" programming for the kiddos. This hike is great for a day trip for the avid hiker or even a nice family weekend getaway for those looking to get out in nature. Definitely rate this a 5 out of 5!

A great experience and an easy adventure to the top of the rock. The vistas are incredible. We got there on a rainy day but not to worry we had umbrellas (you need to have some with you as it rains often). An elevator ride takes you to the top where trails around the rock take you to the best vistas. Slippery when wet you need to make sure of your footing. We were slightly above the clouds so when the rain cleared we had great views of cloud covered peaks in the distance. A small gift shop and restaurant is at the top as well.

Such a beautiful experience!! I highly recommend. The first stage of viewing points are highly accessible with an elevator and no stairs. All of the trails are accurate in their difficulties. If you want to see the top or bottom of the waterfall, know there will be lots of stairs, so just be prepared.

I went to this attraction thinking that I might spend an hour or two here and ended up spending several hours instead! This place is awesome with something for everyone. Plenty of hiking is available, but even those not in great shape can get to Chimney Rock by using the elevator. There is a small restaurant at the top along with bathrooms. This place can easily entertain for an entire day.

Chimney Rock State Park turned out to be such an amazing surprise! We set out just to see the waterfall and found that it came along with Chimney Rock! We went to the top of Chimney Rock via the elevator, which was an experience in itself! We loved the view from the top where you can see Lake Lure and the Blue Ridge mountains inthe distance. It was breathtaking. From there we set back out on our quest for the falls via a well-kept, shaded, beautiful hiking trail and were rewarded with quite the view of the falls! HIGHLY recommend. Come and spend some time exploring!