Things to Do at Lake Lure & Chimney Rock, NC
Photo: DysonsSphere (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Quick Answer
- Top activity
- Chimney Rock State Park — summit elevator, waterfalls, gorge views
- On the water
- Boat rentals and beach at Lake Lure, 3.2 miles east of the park
- Best hiking
- Hickory Nut Falls Trail — 404-ft waterfall, 1.5 mi round trip
- Half-day or full?
- Full day covers both the park and the lake comfortably
The Hickory Nut Gorge packs two distinct experiences into a short stretch of western North Carolina: the dramatic rock formations and waterfalls of Chimney Rock State Park, and the mountain lake recreation of Lake Lure. Most visitors pick one or the other; the ones who plan ahead do both.
Boat Rentals
Pontoons, ski boats and kayaks, with fuel and cooler details.
Hiking Trails
Every trail in Rutherford County, by area, plus Chimney Rock's own.
Where to Eat
Thirteen restaurants ranked by Google, Tripadvisor and Facebook ratings.
Shopping
Main Street shops in Chimney Rock Village and fun at Lake Lure Station.
Apple Orchards
Ten u-pick orchards, five right on Chimney Rock Road.
Wineries and Cideries
Three wineries and two cideries within about 20 minutes.
Golf Courses
The town's 9-hole course, two Rumbling Bald courses and Cleghorn Plantation.
Rock Climbing
Rumbling Bald's bouldering problems, two more areas and guide services.
Equestrian Center
Tryon International: horse shows, dining, lodging and the events calendar.
Hair Salons and Spas
Hair, massage and manicures near Lake Lure and Chimney Rock.
Chimney Rock State Park
Tickets, hours, the elevator, trails and insider tips.
Lake Lure Guide
The beach, watersports and what to do on the lake.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the best things to do at Lake Lure and Chimney Rock?
- Chimney Rock State Park is the anchor activity — the elevator to the summit, Hickory Nut Falls, and the gorge trails. Lake Lure adds boat rentals, beach access, and watersports. A full day covers both.
- How far is Lake Lure from Chimney Rock State Park?
- 3.2 miles — about a 7-minute drive west on US-64/74A. They're easy to combine in one day.
- Is there hiking near Lake Lure?
- Yes — Chimney Rock State Park has several trails ranging from easy walks to strenuous ridge hikes. The Hickory Nut Falls Trail (1.5 mi round trip, moderate) is the standout. The Skyline Trail is the most challenging and has the broadest views.
Last updated: 2026-08-02