Fall Girl Scout Day & Campout

January 5, 2026

 Nothing says fall like a weekend at Chimney Rock. Round up your troop for a chance to meet new friends, explore the Park and learn more about the world around Read More

Fall Photo Contest: “Nature’s Palette”

The trails come alive in fall as the trees transform into gorgeous hues visible throughout the Park. We can’t wait to see the photos you capture as you enjoy fall Read More

Naturalist Niche: Early Bird Walk

You know what they say about early birds… but what about early birders? Hit the Park before gates open for the best birding environment of the day. This slow paced Read More

Nature at Night Hike

Do you ever wonder what goes on in the Park after dark? Join a Naturalist on the Hickory Nut Falls Trail and learn who comes out when the sun goes Read More

World Water Monitoring Day

Join us to learn about water monitoring and conservation efforts here in the Park. This naturalist-led exhibit at the base of Hickory Nut Falls will give you a chance to Read More

Fall Homeschool Day

Chimney Rock’s Fall Homeschool Day is the perfect chance to get your students outside in the gorgeous fall weather. Hands-on seasonal programs will engage your students and inspire their interest Read More

18th Annual Flock to the Rock

 Break out the binoculars and get ready for our annual feathered frenzy. This event was designed so birders of all skill sets can enjoy one of the country’s fastest growing Read More

Passholder Experience: Smartphone Photography Class

Learn how to utilize your phone to take pictures of the Park’s beautiful scenery. You will learn the fundamentals of photography, and gain an eye for the “perfect shot.” Photographers Read More

Naturalist Niche: Signs of Spring

From emerging wildflowers and blooming trees to the calls of returning birds and frogs, spring has so much to offer. Join a naturalist on a moderate hike to discover the Read More

Naturalist Niche:Fall Color Hike

Fall color is not only the reason people travel to WNC each year, it’s also one of the annual highlights for locals. Toward the end of the season Hickory Nut Read More

Passholder Experience: Birding by Ear

Have you ever wanted to learn how to identify the songs in nature’s symphony? Join us for a moderate hike during which you will learn the sounds of some of Read More

Veterans Day Special: Free Admission for Veterans

Chimney Rock honors veterans, reservists, retired and active military personnel with a free visit to Chimney Rock State Park from November 10-12, 2026. Must present military ID or proof of Read More

Passholder Experience: Wildlife Wisdom

What does it mean to be a good neighbor?  Learn more about the habits of your wildlife neighbors and discover effective ways to ensure they remain wild and healthy within Read More

Naturalist Niche: Spring Birding

 Enjoy an intimate spring birding walk led by a local bird expert and soak in the beauty of the park during this lively season. Discover our year-round resident birds and Read More

Thanksgiving Weekend Animal Encounters

Join a Park naturalist and meet some of our “Wilder Teammates.” Our live Animal Ambassadors are amazing educators, and they love to help teach about the types of wildlife in Read More

Naturalist Niche: Forest Bathing

Take a break from the ordinary and join us for a mindfulness hike. Forest Bathing is a practice that invites you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty and serenity Read More

29th Annual Santa on the Chimney

Santa has a big job climbing down all the chimneys in the world on Christmas Eve. But where better to practice than one of the world’s largest natural chimneys? Come Read More

Nature at Night Hike

Watch as the Park comes alive under the shadow of darkness on this guided evening excursion with a naturalist. Do you know which animals come out along the Hickory Nut Read More

Naturalist Niche: Spring Ephemerals

Experience Hickory Nut Gorge coming alive with early spring wildflowers on this moderate hike. The route follows the Hickory Nut Falls Trail and continues down the Four Seasons Trail, where Read More

29th Annual Santa on the Chimney

Santa has a big job climbing down all the chimneys in the world on Christmas Eve. But where better to practice than one of the world’s largest natural chimneys? Come Read More