Archived Outdoors

Chimney Rock hike-in only

Subtropical Storm Alberto caused the upper parking lot retaining wall to collapse in May. Donated photo Subtropical Storm Alberto caused the upper parking lot retaining wall to collapse in May. Donated photo

Chimney Rock State Park is now hike-in only following the start of work to stabilize its upper parking lot Sept. 4. 

Subtropical Storm Alberto caused a section of the retaining wall on the parking lot to collapse over Memorial Day weekend, forcing the park to close two weeks for storm cleanup. 

Since reopening in June, parking has been prohibited on the upper lot and visitors have had to be shuttled or hike up to the top of the park. While stabilization work is underway, no shuttle service will be available. Guests will have to hike the Four Seasons Trail from the Meadows to the Hickory Nut Falls Trail and take the Falls Trail over and up to the elevator entrance or Outcroppings Trail to reach the Chimney. The stabilization work will take about two weeks. 

Admission will be reduced $13 for adults and $6 for children while stabilization work is underway. 

www.chimneyrockpark.com.

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