The Chimney Rock to Exclamation Point route in Chimney Rock State Park combines several trails to reach the park's most iconic viewpoints in Rutherford County, North Carolina. Chimney Rock State Park is located at 431 Main St in the village of Chimney Rock, approximately 25 miles southeast of Asheville via US-74A along the Rocky Broad River corridor.
The total route covers approximately 3 miles roundtrip with 500 feet of elevation gain, though the park's elevator — which ascends through the granite dome — reduces the climbing by 225 feet for those who use it. Park admission is required and includes access to the elevator, the Sky Lounge, and all trails within the park. The Chimney Rock itself is a 315-foot tall freestanding granite monolith accessible via the elevator and a short staircase to the top.
From the Chimney Rock outcrop, the Exclamation Point Trail continues along the ridge above Hickory Nut Gorge for approximately 1.5 miles to Exclamation Point, an exposed rocky promontory at 2,480 feet with views down into the canyon and along the Rocky Broad River valley. The route involves moderate rocky scrambling and several staircases cut into the cliff face between the two viewpoints.
The park trails wind through chestnut oak forest, exposed ridgeline, and granite cliff sections above the Rocky Broad River below. Hickory Nut Falls, at 404 feet one of the tallest waterfalls in the eastern United States, is visible from the Skyline Trail and accessible via a separate trail from the park base. The gorge setting was used as a filming location for The Last of the Mohicans (1992).
The park is open year-round except for major holidays and adverse weather, with hours beginning at 8:30 am. The most crowded periods are summer weekends and the October fall foliage peak. Early morning arrival is recommended to secure parking and minimize queues at the elevator.
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Chimney Rock State Park, Rutherford County
- Best season
- March-November
What to bring
- Hiking boots
- Water
- Park admission $17/adult
Location
431 Main St, Chimney Rock, NC 28720
35.4374, -82.2459 View on map
Highlights
- Chimney Rock — a 315-foot freestanding granite monolith with staircase access and panoramic Hickory Nut Gorge views
- Exclamation Point (2,480 ft) — exposed rocky promontory overlooking the full length of Hickory Nut Gorge and Rocky Broad River
- Elevator through the granite dome reducing climbing by 225 feet and providing access to the Sky Lounge viewpoint
- Hickory Nut Falls (404 ft) — one of the tallest waterfalls in the eastern US, visible from multiple trail viewpoints
- Dramatic filming location of The Last of the Mohicans (1992) within the Hickory Nut Gorge corridor
Tips for visiting
- Arrive when the park opens at 8:30 am — both the parking lot and the elevator queue fill by late morning on weekends.
- Purchase park admission online in advance to save time at the gate; the current adult rate is $17.
- The elevator cuts 225 feet of climbing — consider using it on the ascent and taking the outdoor stairs on the descent for variety.
- The Exclamation Point section involves rocky scrambling — hiking boots with grip provide a meaningful advantage.
- Fall foliage typically peaks in mid-October in Hickory Nut Gorge, transforming the canyon views and drawing large crowds.
When to visit
The park is most enjoyable from March through November. Fall foliage peaks in mid-October and brings the heaviest crowds; early morning visits on weekdays provide the best experience during this period. Spring wildflowers and lower visitor numbers make March through May another strong window.
Accessibility
Chimney Rock State Park has partial accessibility. The elevator ascends to the Sky Lounge and Chimney Rock viewpoint level, allowing visitors with limited mobility to access the main gorge panorama without climbing. The Exclamation Point Trail and most ridge trails are not wheelchair accessible due to stairs, rocky terrain, and narrow cliff-edge paths. Accessible restrooms are available at the park base.
Frequently asked questions
How much does Chimney Rock State Park cost?
Adult admission is currently $17, with reduced rates for children and seniors. Tickets include access to the elevator and all trails within the park. Check the park's website for current pricing and online ticket booking.
Is there an elevator at Chimney Rock?
Yes, the park's elevator ascends through the granite dome to the Sky Lounge at the Chimney Rock level, reducing climbing by approximately 225 feet. It significantly eases access for visitors with limited fitness and provides an alternative to the full stair climb.
What is Exclamation Point?
Exclamation Point is an exposed rocky outcrop at 2,480 feet on the ridgeline above Hickory Nut Gorge, reached via the Exclamation Point Trail from Chimney Rock. It offers views down the full length of the gorge and is the highest accessible viewpoint via the standard trail route.
Can visitors see Hickory Nut Falls from the main trail?
Hickory Nut Falls (404 feet) is visible from the Skyline Trail and from the Chimney Rock area. Close-up views of the falls require descending to the gorge floor via a separate trail from the park base.