For those looking for a invigorating, outdoors spot to spend the better part of a day away from their own particular brand of hustle and bustle, Chimney Rock Park might just be the place.
With fall’s generally crisp and sunny days, the park is an ideal location for an afternoon outside with family or friends.
Offering beautiful hiking trails, classes on topics such as gardening and birding, and some of the most unspoiled and spectacular scenery in the area, Chimney Rock Park is a nice change of pace for many outdoors enthusiasts.
Chimney Rock Park is located on Highway 64/74A near Lake Lure, NC, and has the superb advantage of some of the most spectacular views to be found anywhere. Situated in stunningly beautiful Hickory Nut Gorge, Chimney Rock Park boasts 75-mile views from the top. So beautiful, in fact, that location scouts for the 1991 movie “Last of the Mohicans” were completely captivated by it, and used Chimney Rock Park for many of its exterior shots.
The park is privately owned, and receives no federal or state subsidies to underwrite the upkeep and maintenance of the park and its trail system. The Morse family, owner of the park since 1902, takes its stewardship of the land very seriously, and visitors to the park are the beneficiaries of their earnest approach.
Most Saturdays and Sundays throughout the year feature special programs and activities geared to the special surroundings of the park. Guided hikes to areas of the park that are seldom frequented by humans are available, where hikers are likely to see deer, wild turkey, and grouse, along with the beautiful wildflowers that grow in abundance in the area.
Birding workshops and guided bird walks are available throughout each season. Fall birding activities include a glimpse into the annual fall migration. On November 30, park ornithologist Simon Thompson will lead a guided walk where he will point out various species, including Yellow-rumped Warblers, and Hermit Thrushes will be calling in the woodlands. This guided walk includes a bird inventory. Those interested in participating should plan to meet Thompson at the elevator tunnel entrance at 9 AM. Admission is $5; there is no charge for annual passholders. The guided bird walk is suitable for all ages.
Thanksgiving weekend will feature the joyful tunes of John Mason as he plays the hammered dulcimer. A long-time park favorite, Mason will perform on Friday and Saturday, November 28 and 29, from 10AM-4PM each day.
Chimney Rock Park is open every day, weather permitting, except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. The ticket plaza is open daily from 8:30AM 4:30PM (8:30AM – 5:30PM Daylight Savings Time). The park remains open 1-1/2 hours after the ticket plaza closes. Ticket prices for 2003 are $14.00 (adult) and $6 (youth ages 4-12); children under age 4 are admitted free.
For specific dates and times of additional programs and classes at Chimney Rock Park, please visit their website, www.chimneyrockpark.com, or call 1-800-277-9611.