Chimney Rock State Park reopened June 27, nine months after Tropical Storm Helene. Local officials say the park is vital to the region's tourism economy, with over 400,000 visitors in 2023.

NC State Sen. Julie Mayfield speaks to the Asheville Citizen Times on top of Chimney Rock State Park folowing the grand reopening ceremony, June 27, 2025 in Chimney Rock.

The magic of Hanging Rock lies in its bevy of options. Take a dip in a 12-acre lake, horseback ride along 6 miles of scenic trails, stop by any of the park's five impressive waterfalls, and then ...

With park access limited, the only open route to Chimney Rock is NC-9 through Lake Lure. Other routes, including US 74A from Asheville, US 64 from Hendersonville and NC 9 from Black Mountain ...