Hike #6 :: Chimney Rock via Elevator :: #7: Devils Head :: #8 Hickory Nut Falls

Meetup Schedule / Itinerary:

• 09:30 am Carpool, start from Charlotte
• 11:30 am Meet at Chimney Rock
• 11:45 am Start the hikes. Chimney Rock + Devils Head
• 01:30 pm Start Hickory Nut Falls
• 03:00 pm Leave from Chimney Rock

We can go to any local restaurant voted by most at the hike.

NOTE: You can join for any part of the schedule. These are easy hikes provide multiple opportunities to join, if you are running late.

Ticket Information:

• Entry to the Chimney Rock “attraction” requires tickets / timed reservations. 5 and under are free. They allow some flexibility of timings.
• Adult 1-Day Admission Price: $17/- or
• Annual pass $30/- unlimited visits to for 12 months from purchase. $2 off each adult and $1 off each child admission ticket purchased for friends who accompany you
• I think there is a $2 discount with AAA advantage card.
• Recommend reserving your tickets before hike day.

Explore the scenic trails of Chimney Rock State Park, culminating in breathtaking views from the iconic Chimney Rock, accessible by elevator, and admire the natural wonder of Hickory Nut Falls.
Hickory Nut Falls does not require any ticket.

Location: 431 Main Street, Chimney Rock, NC 28720
GPS may direct to old entrance. Follow village signage to temporary bridge. If you pass Harley-Davidson shop, you've gone too far.

The only open route into Chimney Rock is NC 9 through Lake Lure. All other routes remain closed to non-local traffic, including US 74A from Asheville, US 64 from Hendersonville, and NC 9 from Black Mountain. We recommend you plan for extra travel time.

Hike #6: Chimney Rock (via Elevator)
Access the iconic Chimney Rock, a 315-foot gneiss monolith, via the elevator for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, making it a great choice for a quick hike. The elevator tunnel is easily accessible from the top parking lot. A 30-second ride takes you from the parking lot level to the Sky Lounge, and upper gift shop. Chimney Rock itself is just a few yards away, although there are 40 stairs required to get to the very top.

Duration: Depends on how soon we get Elevator access.

Should the elevators be nonfunctional, we will take staircase
If we have to walk its roughly 500 stairs and we may change schedule as need be. The steps are more than just steps. There’s a grotto, a tunnel under a cave, an actual cave, and one little passageway that had me crawling on my hands and knees. Had it just been steps, I think we would have had tears halfway up. This may feel like a real Minecraft game.

Hike #7 Devil's Head
From the Sky Lounge, the Exclamation Point Trail continues upward (0.7 mi round trip) and rewards you with elevated vista points. Along the way, you’ll pass Opera Box and eventually Devil’s Head, a unique rock formation jutting from the cliff. The Outcroppings Trail also connects to Devil’s Head and the Chimney, offering another moderately steep option of about 0.4 mi.
Duration: 30 mins

Hike #8 :: Hickory Nut Falls Trail
This moderate, 1.4 mile round-trip trail leads to the base of the 404-foot Hickory Nut Falls, which is one of the tallest waterfalls in the eastern United States. The trail has many stone steps and is suitable for families and hikers of all ages.
Duration: 1 hour

Skyline Trail: [TEMPORARILY CLOSED]

What to Bring

• Water, snacks, and lunch.
• Layered and waterproof clothing.
• Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots.
• First-aid kit, bug spray and sunscreen.
• A Sense of Adventure!

Pet Information
Leashed pets are welcome on Hickory Nut Falls trails. Owners must keep pets on a physical leash and manage their waste. Dogs are not allowed on elevator at Chimney Rock.

Pace & Fun: We'll be keeping a moderately easy pace, so whether you're a seasoned hiker or just starting out, you'll be able to enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Sunday there are expected rains, and this will make the experience very unique.

Carpool & Communication:

• Carpool from Charlotte: We will try our best to facilitate coordination for carpool via WhatsApp.
• Communication: To coordinate carpooling and other details, please join FMFF Hiking WhatsApp chat. DM me on Meetup, for more details.