Take in the Views at Chimney Rock State Park This Spring

Big Views & Fun Adventures

Chimney Rock State Park, home to the famed Chimney Rock, is quite possibly one of the most recognizable natural features in North Carolina. The park is a true nature lover's paradise, offering a range of hiking trails, great views, a waterfall, and so much more. 

Chimney Rock State Park is located just 25 miles southeast of the popular getaway town of Asheville, NC, which lies near the southern terminus of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Chimney Rock State Park is so much more than a giant rock, though; it's a testament to time. 

Chimney Rock has been standing tall over North Carolina for more than 500 million years. It's well worth the effort it takes to climb to the top - but there's also an elevator for anyone unable to make the trek. After spending the day exploring this incredible North Carolina State Park, don't miss the opportunity to explore the charms of Chimney Rock Village itself. It's one of the smallest towns in North Carolina, and aside from its charms, it's home to an exquisite Select Registry Bed and Breakfast. 

You'll find no finer accommodations near Chimney Rock State Park than our collection of Select Registry Inns.  Whether you choose to base your vacation at the foot of Chimney Rock in the Lake Lure area, or a little further away in the bustling city of Asheville, there's no doubt you'll love every minute of your time exploring Chimney Rock State Park this spring.  Book your getaway today!

Explore Chimney Rock State Park

The most obvious thing to do at Chimney Rock State Park is, of course, to climb Chimney Rock itself. Admittedly, it's a bit of a strenous hike to the top of Chimney Rock State Park. To get to the top of Chimney Rock, you'll adventurous visitors will want to hike the Outcroppings Trail. 

Be warned, though - the Outcroppings Trail includes 494 strenuous steps to the top. The journey is plenty rewarding, though, as you'll pass the Gniess Cave, The Grotto, and Subway and Pulpit Rock. If you're short on time or energy or need an accessible route to the top, there's an elevator that will take you to the breathtaking views at the top.

Choose a clear and sunny day to visit Chimney Rock State Park, and you'll marvel at the 75-mile panoramic views of Hickory Nut Gorge and the beautiful Lake Lure in the distance. Though the views from the top of Chimney Rock are the highlight of any trip here, there's more to do in the area.  Here are a few other not-to-miss activities at Chimney Rock State Park:

1. Hike to Hickory Nut Falls, which is one of the tallest waterfalls east of the Mississippi. 
2. Chimney Rock State Park is a popular destination for rock climbers and there are guides in the area to help you accomplish this feat. 
3. Spring and summer are a great time to visit, as there is an abundance of wildflowers in bloom throughout Chimney Rock State Park. 
4. There are other great hikes in the area, including Exclamation Point, the Four Seasons Trail, Great Woodland Adventure Trail, and the Skyline Trail.  
5. As you hike on the Exclamation Trail, you'll see some of the other famous geological rock formations in the park, including Devil's Head, Opera Box, and Exclamation Point. 

There's a full days worth of adventure waiting for you at the beautiful Chimney Rock State Park this spring, and we can't wait to share it with you!

More Things to do in Chimney Rock, NC

Though visiting Chimney Rock State Park is the top reason to visit this area, there are more things to do near Chimney Rock worth knowing about. Chimney Rock Village is a quaint town located at the base of Chimney Rock State Park. It's a great place to stop for one-of-a-kind Appalachian crafts or to grab a yummy meal and a cold pint of beer after you've climbed Chimney Rock. 

Beyond that, here are a few of our favorite things to do in Chimney Rock, NC: 

1. If you're intrigued by the rock climbers on Chimney Rock but aren't up to that big of an adventure, head to the Chimney Rock Village Boulders Trail for a more mild experience. 
2. Walk along the Rocky Broad River walk.
3. Explore the Civil War History of the Hickory Nut Gorge. 
4. Visit nearby Lake Lure, a wonderful place to explore and spend the day. 
5. Round out your adventure near Chimney Rock State Park by visiting and exploring the beautiful and romantic city of Asheville.

While you're enjoying all of these things to do in Chimney Rock, NC, you'll need a comfortable place to relax and unwind at the end of the day. There are no better accommodations in the state of North Carolina than our Select Registry Bed and Breakfasts. 

From a charming Inn near Chimney Rock State Park to historic bed and breakfasts in romantic Asheville, there's no doubt our Inns offer the best places to stay near Chimney Rock State Park. Start making your plans to visit today! 

Other Nearby Places to Stay in North Carolina

The Orchard Inn

Ascending the winding drive, the rest of the world falls away as the Orchard Inn of North Carolina comes into view. Situated on a 12-acre mountaintop with stunning views, this North Carolina inn, built in 1926, has long been a favorite retreat with its wraparound porches and large, inviting living room with stone fireplace.

Guest quarters are furnished with period pieces and antiques. Cottages feature fireplaces, whirlpools, and private decks. Enjoy fine dining on the glassed-in dining porch overlooking the gardens, vineyard, and mountains. Guests explore nature trails, watch birds, and experience the peace and tranquility of this lovely elegant Asheville bed and breakfast.

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Places to Stay in Asheville, NC

Albemarle Inn Bed and Breakfast

Enjoy gracious hospitality and Southern comfort in western North Carolina. An 11 room classic turn-of-the century mansion, the Albemarle Inn is located minutes from artsy & Foodtopia downtown Asheville, Biltmore Estate, and the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains.

Experience the Inn’s tranquil timeless appeal, relaxing on our veranda with morning coffee, or evening refreshments. Our sumptuous breakfasts are served in our sunporch or fireside in winter. De-stress with In-Room Spa services. Energize with outdoor activities like our waterfall tours.

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Chestnut Street Inn

Our 8-guestroom property is located at the top of the historical downtown district of Chestnut Hills in Asheville, NC. We are a convenient 10 minute walk to downtown Asheville, a quick drive to the Biltmore Estate and 15 minutes to the Blue Ridge Parkway.

The Chestnut Street Inn is also a one-stop concierge destination. Allow us to make reservations for you at our favorite Asheville restaurant destinations, take advantage of our self-guided walking beer tour or one of a dozen pre-planned hiking itineraries. Above anything, we are Asheville fans, which we love to sharewith our guests.

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Abbington Green Bed & Breakfast Inn & Spa

Prepare to be pampered your entire stay at Abbington Green Bed & Breakfast Inn and Spa. The Inn is proudly located in the Montford Historic District in Asheville, NC, named North Carolina's "Best Old-House Neighborhood"!

The historic property is a Colonial Revival designed by the Biltmore Estate's onsite architect in 1908.  The classically inspired guestrooms provide both comfort and lavish amenities and throughout the grounds.

Breakfasts are elegant, made from locally sourced, substantially organic ingredients. You'll be sure to enjoy our evening social hour daily, with complimentary drinks and hors d'oeuvres featuring local products, before dining at one of Asheville's fine restaurants.  Located just a mile from downtown Asheville, the inn is also just minutes from the Biltmore Estate and the many outdoor activities in Western North Carolina.   Spend the day hiking, rafting, golfing or taking a relaxing drive on the beautiful Blue Ridge Parkway.  

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1900 Inn on Montford

The 1900 Inn on Montford, situated in the heart of the historic Montford district of Asheville, provides a luxurious bed and breakfast setting for guests to experience a sense of southern and Austrian comfort and Gemütlichkeit.

The Inn has AAA Four Diamonds for 10 years running. The common areas and grand front porch of the Inn are spacious and appointed with antiques, fresh flowers, and classic Arts and Crafts woodwork and several of the guest rooms have luxury bathrooms. Inn mornings begin with a three course breakfast on the grand front porch (weather permitting) or elegant community table with locally sourced ingredients. Evenings offer the opportunity to relax on the porch or sunroom.

Experience live heritage music each Saturday evening on the porch or front foyer. Our Asheville bed and breakfast is eight blocks from historic downtown Asheville, and minutes from the Biltmore Estate, and the Blue Ridge Parkway.

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