May 16, 2012

Story Ideas

A Legacy of Preservation Continues

For more than 100 years, the Morse family acted as careful stewards of Chimney Rock.  The family realized that to continue to share the Park’s unique beauty with visitors from around the world, protect its ecologically-sensitive environment and preserve its natural heritage for future generations, Chimney Rock should become part of the state parks system. With the assistance of conservancy and citizen groups, and of course, NC State Parks, that dream became reality in 2007 and Chimney Rock became the centerpiece of the still-developing Chimney Rock State Park in beautiful Hickory Nut Gorge.

But why Hickory Nut Gorge? The gorge was one of 47 sites identified as an area of conservation importance, natural resource significance and recreation potential by the state park’s New Parks for a New Century initiative. Hickory Nut Gorge scored exceptionally high in all criteria. The gorge is home to 36 rare plant species, 14 rare animal species and is considered one of the most important centers of biodiversity in North Carolina. Plus, Chimney Rock’s spectacular cliffs are among the most ecologically intact cliff ecosystems in eastern North America.

The Cure for Nature Deficit Disorder

Nature Deficit Disorder may not be recognized by the American Medical Association, but that doesn’t mean it’s not a real problem with today’s youth. It’s simple. Kids just don’t spend as much time outside as the generations before them. Chimney Rock is doing its part to “bring kids back to Earth.”

So, what’s the remedy for Nature Deficit Disorder? Yanking the plug on TV and video games, and reconnecting kids and the natural world. The Park’s 1,000-acre classroom makes learning so much fun; they won’t even realize they’re learning. Chimney Rock also develops education programs for school field trips, scout troops, homeschool families and area youth camps. Plus, the Park’s specialists offer free family fun programs throughout the summer and fall.

Birds Flock to Chimney Rock

Long recognized as a haven for birds, Chimney Rock has a reputation (in a good way, of course) among bird lovers, too. And with nearly 40 varieties of warblers and vireos, including the elusive Swainson’s and Cerulean warblers, sighted at the Park, it’s no wonder.  Joining the warblers and vireos is the dynamic Peregrine Falcon. Once on the endangered species list, Peregrines have made a steady comeback. Since 1989, pairs of peregrine falcons have nested almost continuously on the high cliff faces at Chimney Rock. The North Carolina Birding Trail selected the Park as one of its sites for the mountain region which opens this summer.

We'll be dedicating a weekend to birds and the people who love them. The event is scheduled for September 25 and 26 to coincide with the fall hawk migration when hundreds of Broad-winged, Sharp-shinned, Cooper’s and Red-shouldered hawks can be seen soaring over the Park on their way to wintering grounds. Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in guided bird walks with world-traveled ornithologist Simon Thompson, get up-close-and-personal with rehabilitating birds of prey and attend workshops on birding.

Events that Run the Gamut

Chimney Rock’s calendar of events has something for everyone, literally. Want to watch the sunrise over Lake Lure and Hickory Nut Gorge while celebrating the glory of Easter? The 55th Annual Easter Sunrise Service is Sunday, April 4. Looking for something fun to do with your dog? On Saturday, April 24, Chimney Rock hosts the 6th Annual Bark in the Park. How about watch fire-breathing dragon boats race across Lake Lure? Come to the 3nd Annual Lure of the Dragons Festival at Lake Lure Community Park set for Saturday, May 8. Eager to take on the challenge of running or biking the Park’s winding uphill entrance road? Participate in the 4rd Annual Race to the Rock on Sunday, August 29. This event is part of the 6th Annual Hickory Nut Gorge Olympiad, a four-day sports and community festival with events for everyone from weekend warriors to hardcore athletes. Want t become a naturalist? Join Park Naturalist Ron Lance on one of the Park’s workshops and guided hikes offered monthly. Enjoy birding? Ornithologist Simon Thompson leads several bird walks throughout the year. All the details are at www.chimneyrockpark.com.

Day Out with the Girls or the Guys

Friends know that getting away together is the perfect cure to the busy life blues. Chimney Rock offers the opportunity to reconnect with each other as well as nature. Daring friends can take advantage of guided rock climbing clinics followed by an invigorating hike to the bottom of 404ft Hickory Nut Falls or to Exclamation Point, the highest point in the Park with panoramic views of the gorge. Next up? Kayaking on Lake Lure, named one of the top ten most beautiful man-made lakes by National Geographic. For a small mountain town, the area boasts two full-service spas, the ideal accompaniment to a day of adventure at Chimney Rock as well as several championship golf courses. This is a popular getaway for couples, too.

It Takes a Village

Surrounding Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park are the quaint shops, restaurants and lodging properties of Chimney Rock Village, Bat Cave and Lake Lure. These shops offer merchandise as unique as the characters that operate them. Many have been family-owned for generations. Visitors can browse for interesting mountain souvenirs, then stop for a bite to eat along the picturesque Rocky Broad River. When it’s time to retire for the night, travelers will find every kind of accommodation from rustic cabins to luxurious inns. There are no chains here, just one-of-a-kind mountain experiences.