The Media Room May 09, 2008

Story Ideas

Change Your Vantage Point on the World

After 104 years, privately-owned Chimney Rock Park has opened its cliffs to rock climbers of all skill levels and abilities. For decades, visitors have come to the Park and climbed the more than 400 steps to the top of the Rock to take in the spectacular views of Lake Lure, the foothills of the Blue Ridge and the Carolina Piedmont. The only climbing was done by professional rope and rock climbers who were invited to do demonstrations.

That’s all changed since we’ve teamed up with Fox Mountain Guides, the only fully-accredited rock climbing guide company in the region. All of their guides are certified by the American Mountain Guides Association. For age 6 years old and up, no experience is necessary and all equipment is included.

Do a 15-minute “Go,” a two-hour clinic, a half or whole day adventure and experience the thrill yourself, or talk with guests who have taken the challenge. If you want to start easy, check out our 32-foot climbing tower located on the Park Meadows.

Chimney Rock Park by the Numbers

Did you know that the elevator to the Chimney takes you up 26 stories in 30 seconds?  And, Hickory Nut Falls is the second highest waterfall east of the Mississippi at 404 ft.  To get your heart pumping, how about climbing 185 steps through the Needle’s Eye?  Want to stand at the highest point in the Park? Try Exclamation Point at an elevation of 2,480 ft.  Don’t let all the numbers boggle your mind; the answer to this equation is simple – Wow!

“Art in the Park” on the Great Woodland Adventure Trail for Kids & Kids-at-Heart

Hiking the Great Woodland Adventure trail is a magical experience for kids and kids-at-heart.  Whimsical, life-size, handcrafted sculptures of animals likely to be found in the Park (such as bears, toads and birds) await discovery along this easy .6 mile heavily-shaded trail. Hikers will enjoy an interactive experience, one that educates while it entertains. The sculptures were all made by North Carolina artisans and create a must-see outdoor art adventure. After you’ve done the trail, check out the real critters in Grady the Groundhog’s Animal Discovery Den.

This Isn’t Learning, or Is It?

The pages of textbooks come alive at Chimney Rock Park! Rich in natural resources, the Park opens a door to a new world of learning and discovery for students of all ages. Workshops, guided hikes and educational programs are some of the great learning opportunities we have available year-round. Our hands-on educational learning center features fun and educational animal exhibits, displays and personalized, kid-friendly “drop in” presentations by our Education Coordinator. The Park specializes in making learning fun!

Our Mountains are Famous!

The rugged beauty of the Park has long attracted celebrities and dignitaries, writers and photographers from near and far.  The Park’s spectacular scenery caught Hollywood’s eye, too.  Scenes from a number of movies have been filmed in the Park including some in The Last of the Mohicans, Firestarter and A Breed Apart.  Commercials for Atkins Nutritional Bars and REI’s Fall '05 Catalog were also shot here. 

Experiencing Nature Deficit Disorder? We’ve Got the Cure!

In the age of super-sized foods and obesity, it’s vitally important for everyone to get out and get moving.  The challenge - where do you start without feeling overwhelmed? The Park is a great place to kick off an exercise program or mix up an existing routine.  Trails range in difficulty from easy to strenuous. Unlike a national park where you might not see another person for hours, or even know exactly where the trail begins or ends, we make it easy to figure out. Trail rangers are never too far away, and you can find as much or as little solitude as you like. Whether you want a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, we have the perfect trail for all fitness levels. The views are sure to keep folks motivated and coming back for more!  For a very attractive price, guests can even purchase an annual pass and enjoy the Park on an unlimited, year-round basis.

Keeping It All in the Family

While visiting Hickory Nut Gorge in 1902, Dr. Lucius B. Morse took a 25-cent donkey ride that changed his life, as well as the lives of his future relatives. The Park has been privately owned and operated by the Morse family for more than a century. Come see what sets this privately-owned park apart from all the others. There are public parks, and then there is Chimney Rock Park!

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