It’s hard to believe that summer vacation is already coming to an end for so many of us — but what a wonderful summer it has been so far! From hiking to exclamation point and feeling the summer breeze greet you, to enjoying ice cream on the Sky Lounge patio while admiring the view, there is something for everyone to enjoy at the Rock.
Summer may be winding down…but don’t worry! There is still so much fun to be had. Animal Encounters will continue every weekday at 2pm through August 14th. Join us on the Outcroppings Deck for these short, engaging programs with a Park Naturalist and our Western North Carolina native animal ambassadors. Visiting on the weekend? Join us between 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM for Drop-in at the Den, an interactive experience at the Animal Discovery Den that allows you to meet our animal ambassadors up close.
While you’re here, don’t forget to capture all of your summer fun! Enter your best Chimney Rock State Park shots in our photo contest for a chance to win complimentary Park access for a year, and bragging rights forever. Photos must be taken at Chimney Rock State Park between July 1st – August 31st. Email up to 3 submissions to communications@chimneyrockpark.com
Speaking of photos – Are you an Annual Passholder looking for some weekday plans? Well, look no further! Our next installment of our Passholder Experience series: Smartphone Photography will take place on Wednesday, August 19th from 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM. During this morning hike you’ll learn how to utilize your phone to take pictures of the Park’s beautiful scenery. We look forward to seeing what you capture!
Not only is there fun to be had, but there’s so mushroom to learn and explore! Join us on Saturday, August 15th for the next installment of our Naturalist Niche series: Marvelous Mycology. Whether you’re a mycology expert or a casual observer of these mysterious mushrooms, there’s a lot to learn on this guided hike with a local naturalist.
Round out the weekend by competing in the Race to the Rock 5K on Sunday, August 16th! This final event of the Lake Lure Olympiad takes place right here at Chimney Rock State Park. Run or jog up the 3.2-mile park road to be rewarded with a stunning view of Lake Lure and the Blue Ridge foothills. To register visit lakelureolympiad.org
While we love summer days, summer nights at the Rock are pretty fantastic too! Have you ever wondered what goes on in the Park after dark? Join a Naturalist on Saturday, August 22nd from 7:30 PM- 9:30 PM to hike the Hickory Nut Falls Trail and learn who comes out when the sun goes down. This unique hike is the perfect time to learn about some of the Park’s rarely-seen residents, and it’s a one-of-a-kind way to experience the Park!
We hope to see you on the trails soon!
