News

Chimney Rock reopens popular long-vista spots

By Bill Moss, Published: May 30, 2015

The Subway, Grotto and Pulpit Rock, long-time popular features on the Outcroppings trail at Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park, have reopened after being closed for repairs since 2008.

The features offer incredible views of Lake Lure, Hickory Nut Gorge and the Carolina Piedmont that are unique to the Outcroppings trail. Views of the Gorge, Lake Lure and the Carolina Piedmont as well as the “Rock Pile” can be seen from Pulpit Rock. The Grotto offers a shady place to sit and relax while viewing the Carolina Piedmont and Lake Lure. And folks will have fun walking through the tunnel of rock known as the Subway.
“The renovation of popular visitor features to make them safe and attractive is a priority at Chimney Rock State Park,” state Parks Director Mike Murphy said. “We’re confident our visitors will find the park more enjoyable than ever with an ever-expanding list of activities.”

After the state bought Chimney Rock Park in 2007, engineers studied the condition of the trails and park structures and determined that several did not meet state construction standards. The Subway, Grotto and Pulpit Rock were redesigned and rebuilt. The features were reopened in time for Memorial Day weekend, allowing guests to experience spectacular new views of the Hickory Nut Gorge and Lake Lure, including Round Top Mountain and Rumbling Bald Mountain.