The Outcroppings trail to the Chimney and the Skyline trail to Exclamation Point are now open again! The modernized elevator and renovated Sky Lounge Gift Shop & Deli are expected to reopen sometime in late spring (i.e. late May to mid-June). Read more about our capital improvements and reduced admission.
You may have heard that Chimney Rock is undergoing some capital improvements to protect and improve guest accessibility. Check our Progress Page for details and see some frequently asked questions below. Don’t see yours? Send it to us!
Why are these projects necessary? To continue to provide the best possible guest accessibility for current and future generations. The replacement of the Outcroppings trail staircase will result in easier access/egress to and from the Chimney. An updated, modernized elevator will increase reliability, speed and capacity. And a renovated Sky Lounge will serve as a better facility for guests.
Why can’t we ride the elevator to the top of the mountain while the Outcropping stairs are being replaced? There will be no other egress from the Sky Lounge while the Outcropping stairs are under construction. Consequently, the elevator cannot be used.
Why can’t these projects all be done during the off season? These projects will take longer than the winter season to complete. It would be easier for the contractors if they did not have to work around us and our guests, but the state understands the importance the Park plays in the economic health of our community and is committed to keeping the Park open as much as possible.
Why are you still charging admission when amenities/trails are closed? Unlike most other NC State Parks, Chimney Rock has limited capacity and is very labor and maintenance intense because of the unique amenities (elevator inside mountain, stairs, bridges, walkways, shuttle service, trail rangers, etc.) it provides.
The significant overhead required to keep Chimney Rock open and accessible does not change despite the closure of certain amenities. In fact, these closures most likely will increase operational costs. Admission prices have not changed since 2003. However, in an attempt to maximize the value we offer our guests, admission prices will be reduced and more programs will be made available at no additional cost while these major improvements are being made.
What’s the latest on the State Park’s Master Plan for Chimney Rock? In addition to this centerpiece of the Park, the state has also acquired an additional 3000+ acres to be added to the still-developing greater Chimney Rock State Park. Greenways Inc., the Durham-based environmental planning and landscape architecture firm hired by the state, has developed a Master Plan that will serve as the roadmap that will identify how to update the trails that you know as well as where they will add additional recreational opportunities. The final Master Plan is now available for review.
When will the state add or open trails? Trails are on their list, but the state must prioritize projects in order of their importance to basic guest services. Several major improvements have already been completed: an emergency generator to accommodate the elevator and the gift shop on top of the mountain has been installed; sites were prepared and two new water reservoirs were airlifted and placed on the side of the mountain; and the entrance bridge over the Rocky Broad River received upgrades to its decking, railings and piers. Last year, retaining walls were built, improved pathways were created and new wood and cable railings were installed on the trail to Exclamation Point, the highest lookout in the Park.
When will the stair project be completed and the trail up to the Chimney and Exclamation Point reopened? The entire reconstruction of the Outcroppings trail was completed and reopened on April 14, 2012.
