29th Annual Santa on the Chimney

January 5, 2026

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

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

Winter Homeschool Day

It might be cold outside, but we are always ready for a day of learning and adventure! Experience the Park during our quieter months on Chimney Rock’s Winter Homeschool Day. Read More

Winter Break Animal Encounters

Join a Park Naturalist this winter and meet some of our “Wilder Teammates.” Our live Animal Ambassadors help bring the season to life while teaching about local wildlife and how Read More

Spring Homeschool Day

Chimney Rock’s Spring Homeschool Day is the perfect way to shake off the winter blues and enjoy the beauty of the season! Join our team for hands-on programs created to 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

Hike with a Naturalist

Spend an hour hiking one of the Parks’ six trails with a naturalist. Discover the fall flora and fauna of the Park while learning more about the history of this Read More

National Trails State Day

Join us to celebrate North Carolina, a.k.a. “The Great Trails State!” Chimney Rock offers six great trails for you to explore on this special day. We will also be hosting Read More

National Trails Day

 Hit the trails and celebrate this national holiday! Join naturalists throughout the day to learn more about the park’s history, flora, and fauna.   Cost: Included with Park admission.   Read More

Naturalist Niche: Winter Birds

Discover the quiet magic of winter at Chimney Rock. Join a local Naturalist and learn about what makes winter unique here at the Rock, and what our local birds are Read More

Race to the Rock

Are you up for the challenge? The final event of the Lake Lure Olympiad takes place right here in Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park. Run or jog up Read More

National Get Outdoors Day

This national holiday celebrates our favorite thing to do… get outdoors! Look for our discovery stations as you hike and learn some cool trail information and history from our naturalists.

Juneteenth

NC State Parks is celebrating Juneteenth! Join a Park Ranger to learn more about this holiday, and make a craft.

21st Annual Groundhog Day Celebration – Virtual

Join us for one of our favorite days of the year! Chimney Rock’s hardworking woodchuck will make a prediction not only about how much more winter we will have, but 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

Summer Photo Contest: “Summer Fun in the Sun”

Summer is our busiest hiking season of the year for, it’s the perfect time to explore and capture the scenery. Share your best summer trail photos—you could win a prize! Read More

Naturalist Niche: History of Chimney Rock

 Celebrate America’s  250th Anniversary, and 110 years of Chimney Rock by joining us on this special hike to learn more about the Park’s unique history! Cost: Includes Park admission: $25 Read More

Winter Break Animal Encounters

Join a Park Naturalist this winter and meet some of our “Wilder Teammates.” Our live Animal Ambassadors help bring the season to life while teaching about local wildlife and how Read More

Naturalist Niche: Geology of the Gorge

Join local experts on a guided hike to discover the geologic history of the Rock. This “gneiss” opportunity invites you to explore the unique geology of Chimney Rock State Park Read More

Summer 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