Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park

Hickory Nut Gorge and Chimney Rock are home to many species of fabulous fungi. Whether you’re a mycology expert or a casual observer of these mysterious mushrooms, there’s a lot to learn on this guided hike with a naturalist as you investigate some terrific toadstools! Cost: Includes Park admission: $25 Adult, $11 Adult Annual Passholder, $15 Youth, $9 Youth Annual Passholder.

Are you up for the challenge? The final event of the Lake Lure Olympiad takes place right here in Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park. Run or jog up the 3.2-mile park road and be rewarded with a stunning view of Lake Lure and the Blue Ridge foothills. More information and registration at lakelureolympiad.org

Learn how to utilize your phone to take pictures of the Park’s beautiful scenery. You will learn the fundamentals of photography, and gain an eye for the “perfect shot.” Photographers at any level are welcome to join, we look forward to seeing what you capture! Cost: $11 Adult Annual Passholder, $9 Youth Annual Passholder.

Do you ever wonder what goes on in the Park after dark? Join a Naturalist on the Hickory Nut Falls Trail and learn who comes out when the sun goes down. This unique hike is the perfect time to learn about some of the Park’s rarely-seen residents Cost: Includes Park admission: $25 Adult, $11 Adult Annual Passholder, $15 Youth, $9 Youth Annual Passholder.

Nothing says fall like a weekend at Chimney Rock. Round up your troop for a chance to meet new friends, explore the Park and learn more about the world around us through hands-on programs for all ages. Want to stay longer? Pack your tent for the rare opportunity to sleep under the stars. Cost: $19 per scout, $14 per adult, $6 additional youth. Camping is $10 per

Join us to learn about water monitoring and conservation efforts here in the Park. This naturalist-led exhibit at the base of Hickory Nut Falls will give you a chance to learn about the Hickory Nut Gorge watershed, and how to be better stewards of it!

You know what they say about early birds… but what about early birders? Hit the Park before gates open for the best birding environment of the day. This slow paced guided walk with a Naturalist is the perfect way to start your day. Cost: Includes Park admission: $25 Adult, $11 Annual Passholder, $15 Youth (ages 5-15), $9 Annual Passholder.

Break out the binoculars and get ready for our annual feathered frenzy. This event was designed so birders of all skill sets can enjoy one of the country’s fastest growing hobbies – bird watching! Bring the whole family for live raptor programs, birding activities, intro to birding hikes, and the annual hawk watch from the Chimney. This year we’re celebrating 18 amazing years of Flock to the Rock! Schedule to follow.

Chimney Rock’s Fall Homeschool Day is the perfect chance to get your students outside in the gorgeous fall weather. Hands-on seasonal programs will engage your students and inspire their interest in the outdoors. After lunch, plan to stick around and enjoy what the Park has to offer as the seasons change. Cost: $14 Adults (Park admission), no charge for Adult Annual Passholder; $14 Youth (ages 5-15), $

Rise and shine! There’s only a few times a year when visitors can watch the sunrise over Lake Lure and Hickory Nut Gorge, and this one is just for you – our Annual Passholders. Sip a warm cup of coffee as you enjoy the view, and enjoy a light breakfast before hitting the trails to take advantage of the quiet. This event is for Annual Passholders only. No additional guests, please. Cost: $25 Adult Ann

The trails come alive in fall as the trees transform into gorgeous hues visible throughout the Park. We can’t wait to see the photos you capture as you enjoy fall hiking in the Park. Enter your best shots to win prizes! GREAT PRIZES WILL BE AWARDED TO 3 WINNING ENTRIES 1st Prize: The winning photo will be our Facebook cover photo for two weeks, and the photographer will receive two annual passes to Chimney Rock State Park.<

Join us to celebrate North Carolina, a.k.a. “The Great Trails State!” Chimney Rock offers six great trails for you to explore on this special day. We will also be hosting guided hikes with a Park Naturalist during the day. Schedule to follow.

Watch as the Park comes alive under the shadow of darkness on this guided evening excursion with a naturalist. Do you know which animals come out along the Hickory Nut Falls trail when the sun goes down? Get ready to learn more about the Park’s rarely-seen residents. Cost: Includes Park admission: $25 Adult, $11 Annual Passholder, $15 Youth (ages 5-15), $9 Annual Passholder.

Fall color is not only the reason people travel to WNC each year, it’s also one of the annual highlights for locals. Toward the end of the season Hickory Nut Gorge comes alive with gorgeous hues. Enjoy this opportunity to learn more about fall flora and fauna in the Park as you take in the beauty of the season. Cost: Includes Park admission: $25 Adult, $11 Annual Passholder, $15 Youth (ages 5-15), $9

Spend an hour hiking one of the Parks’ six trails with a naturalist. Discover the fall flora and fauna of the Park while learning more about the history of this fascinating place.

Chimney Rock honors veterans, reservists, retired and active military personnel with a free visit to Chimney Rock State Park from November 10-12, 2026. Must present military ID or proof of service. Cost: Free admission only for military members with ID, military family members will receive standard discount rates of $15 for adults and $7 for youth ages 5-15.

Take a break from the ordinary and join us for a mindfulness hike. Forest Bathing is a practice that invites you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty and serenity of nature. This gentle, sensory experience encourages you to slow down, be present, and enjoy a moment of quiet before the holiday season. Cost: Includes Park admission: $25 Adult, $11 Annual Passholder, $15 Youth (ages 5-15), $9 Youth Ann

What does it mean to be a good neighbor? Learn more about the habits of your wildlife neighbors and discover effective ways to ensure they remain wild and healthy within their natural habitat. Whooo knows, our wild neighbors may share some special wisdom with us as well. Cost: $11 Adult Annual Passholder, $9 Youth Annual Passholder.

Join a Park naturalist and meet some of our “Wilder Teammates.” Our live Animal Ambassadors are amazing educators , and they love to help teach about the types of wildlife in the area and their roles in the ecosystem. Shake off that turkey coma and get some fresh air on the Outcroppings Deck at 2pm.