Today, Chris Bainbridge is taking you to one of the true gems of the Blue Ridge Mountains; a place famous for breathtaking views, incredible waterfalls, and some of the richest biodiversity anywhere on the planet.  Welcome to Chimney Rock State Park.

Our previous adventures have taken us to Lake Lure, North Carolina.  And Chimney Rock overlooks a previous Open Road treasure: Lake Lure, North Carolina.  Just a short drive from both Asheville and the Upstate of South Carolina, Chimney Rock State park is strategically located for an amazing weekend of exploration.

Start your tour by getting to know some of the inhabitants of this park.  The Animal Discovery Den is a great place to get up close and personal with these cool creatures, and it’s an easy and engaging stop-off for kids of all ages.

All these animal ambassadors are unable to return to their wild homes, but they’ve found a great place to live here at the park.  Although these animals can’t be released into the wild, the wild is your next stop.

The moderate hike to the base of Hickory Nut Falls takes you through beautiful Blue Ridge forest and past impressive rock formations.  You can also hike to the top of the falls.  Both are beautiful, but the base of the falls allows you to see the full, towering majesty of this famous flume.

This waterfall played a starring role in the hit film The Last of the Mohicans.  It’s a 404-foot natural wonder whose mists can cool you on a hot summer day.  And it’s breathtaking to behold.

Finally, round out your day at the namesake of this perfect park.  Head into the 198-ft tunnel to ride the 258 story elevator to the Chimney Rock.

The view from up here is absolutely amazing.  This is a great place to bring an Ingles picnic and take in the beauty of creation.  With the flag whipping in the wind and the sprawling Blue Ridge laid out beneath you, it’s an experience not to be missed.

Plan your visit to Chimney Rock State Park today by checking the links in in the featured section of this page.  Bring the friends, bring the family – just make sure to bring yourself.

To learn more about Ingles Markets, visit their website at ingles-markets.com.