The Scenic Route: A Day Trip from Asheville to Chimney Rock
If you’re looking for a day trip that offers beautiful scenery and plenty of things to do, look no further than Asheville to Chimney Rock. This scenic drive will take you through the rolling hills of North Carolina, and there are plenty of attractions along the way. In Chimney Rock, you can visit the Hickory Nut Falls, hike to the top of Chimney Rock, or explore Lake Lure. There’s something for everyone in this charming mountain town!
Before you plan your getaway, take some time to browse through our free Vacation Guide to discover all the great activities and attractions that our breathtaking region has to offer.
Plan a Scenic Trip from Asheville to Chimney Rock, NC
Asheville to Chimney Rock is one of the most beautiful drives in North Carolina even if it is a short one! The route takes you through the state’s rolling hills as you drive down the scenic US-74 ALT E. Diving down Charlotte Highway, you will drive through Florence Nature Preserve and Batcave NC all while being flanked by the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains.
WHY YOU SHOULD SEE CHIMNEY ROCK, NC
Chimney Rock is one of Asheville’s most popular day trip destinations for a plethora of reasons. The small town is home to Hickory Nut Gorge and Chimney Rock State Park, two outdoor sanctuaries that will take your breath away.
In Chimney Rock State Park, you can hike to the top of Chimney Rock, take in views of the Asheville area from Hickory Nut Falls, or go on a leisurely stroll along the Rocky Broad River. The town of Chimney Rock has some very cute restaurants, places to take pictures, and stores for hand-crafted goods and sweets. The park is also home to some of the best rock climbing in North Carolina!
DO NOT FORGET TO VISIT LAKE LURE, NC
A visit to Asheville would not be complete without taking some time to explore Lake Lure. The man-made lake was created in the early 1900s as a power source for the Asheville area and is now one of Asheville’s most popular recreation spots!
There are plenty of things to do on the water, including swimming, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. If you enjoy a side of history with your trip on the lake, we recommend taking a boat tour! The boat tours teach you all about the famous history of the man-made lake, including which Hollywood movies had famous scenes shot here!
You can also take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline or explore one of the many hiking trails in the area. And no trip to Lake Lure would be complete without a visit to the famous Lake Lure Flowering Bridge!
STAY NEAR ALL THE FUN IN CHIMNEY ROCK, NC
The Esmeralda Inn & Restaurant is right in the heart of Chimney Rock, NC making it the ideal place to stay when you visit! Whether you want to stop in for dinner after a long hike or want to stay the weekend for a change of scenery, The Esmeralda has everything you need to feel at home in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Make your reservations today. The Western North Carolina mountains can’t wait to show you all their beauty!
