Seasons:
The four seasons have been inspiring the artist in all of us since the first
pink blossom signaled winter's end and the first green leaf turned a flaming
red. That creative tradition continues today at Chimney Rock Park, where all
four seasons unfold in glorious splendor. There are scientific reasons for the
Park's distinctive seasons: moist microclimates created on the high cliffs by
the spume and spray of Hickory Nut Falls; the warming, thermal-belt effect on
the densely forested lower slopes; and the remarkable 1,700-foot range in elevations.
But even science has its limits when it comes to nature-sometimes it's best to
simply enjoy the magic of the moment.
Spring wildflowers start as early as late February or March. The white flowers of harbinger-of-spring followed by the purple and white blossoms of hepatica return like old friends to trails throughout the Park. Next, anemone and spring beauty push through the leafy mulch, and galax prepares to send its foamy spikes skyward.
Summer is a time of lushness. Green envelopes the mountain, from carpets of ferns to the towering canopy of trees high above the Park. Clusters of pink and white blossoms add a swath of color against the deep green of mountain laurel, followed by the voluptuous flowers of rhododendron. Colorful jewelweed, bold black-eyed Susan, and delicate Queen Anne's lace are also perennial favorites.
As autumn approaches, a stillness gradually replaces the frenzy of summer. Crickets, katydids and cicadas sing more quietly now. Growth stops, resources reserved for the colder times ahead. And trees begin their slow burlesque, teasing with a hint of red here, a flash of orange there, until their colorful grand finale late in October. Each year, thousands of visitors return to marvel once again at nature's majesty.
Even when November winds take away the last vestiges of summer's handiwork, the Park is still beautiful. Lush stands of evergreens and deciduous trees—naked black branches swaying like graceful dancers—keep the landscape exciting. And the vistas! Once the leaves are off the trees, long stretches of Hickory Nut Gorge, Lake Lure and the rolling countryside spill across the horizon.
Gradually, spring works its way north, and the cycle begins all over again. Renewal. Just like a visit to Chimney Rock Park.
