As residents of North Carolina, or as visitors, one of the many must-see iconic stops in the Tar Heel State is quite often a one-time stop as visitors ascend up to the most popular overlook, gawk at the view, catch their breath and then… leave without enjoying the other spectacular overlooks within the park. But why stop there – when a little adventure and a few short trails will dole out so many more jaw-dropping views?

When was the last time you enjoyed a moment at the top of North Carolina’s Chimney Rock?

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From the top of the 315-foot oddly shaped (and aptly named!) granite outcropping, you’ll enjoy 75-mile views of Lake Lure and the Broad River.

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And getting up there, as you know, is half the fun — that is, if your knees can handle the 499 steps on the outcropping trail.

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Too much? Don’t worry! Chimney Rock has a rare elevator inside a mountain that takes you to the top of the towering overlook (note… a few stairs may be necessary once you get out of the elevator).

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Are you one of the many whose adventure ends once you’ve conquered the hike up to the top of the chimney? If so, then you’re missing out on the rest of the amazing overlooks.

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And, just as getting to the top of Chimney Rock afforded some amazing views, taking the trail to the overlooks known as Devil’s Head and Exclamation Point adds some extraordinary spots from which to gaze at the beautiful views. Take a peek here at the Opera Box, a natural cave-like, well… opera box, where Mother Nature’s performance is never ending and deserves nothing short of a standing ovation.

Chimney Rock Park

From Devil’s Head, you’ll enjoy views of Hickoy Nut Gorge and…

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… the Devil’s head. A bit creepy, but still… don’t leave without a photo!

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The highest peak in the park is found at Exclamation Point. It’s approximately 20 minutes from the chimney if you’re comfortable with a moderate to strenuous pace. But the climb is absolutely worth the sweat (and maybe a few tears).

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From here, you’ll see more views from high above Hickory Nut Gorge. Bring a bottle of water and sit and enjoy these out-of-the way and less traveled overlooks at Chimney Rock. When was the last time you reconnected with this amazing natural wonder in the Tar Heel State?

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Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park is located at 431 Main St., Chimney Rock, NC 28720. Ticket prices and hours vary by age and by season; the hyper links provided here should help guide your visit. If hiking to any of the overlooks, please remember to leave no trace.

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Chimney Rock Park

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To discover more of our favorite overlooks in North Carolina, keep reading here!

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