Although it is less than a mile long, Western North Carolina’s famous Rocky Broad Riverwalk is one of the area’s best features. The one-of-a-kind path brings together two of Western North Carolina’s favorite towns, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. The riverwalk extends alongside the Rocky Broad River and provides easy access to restaurants, shops, and parks between the two charming towns. With so much to offer, the riverwalk makes spending a day in Lake Lure and Chimney Rock easy and exciting! To learn more about everything these wonderful small towns have to offer, access our free Vacation Guide and find out all the ways you can enjoy a trip to Western North Carolina.
Rocky Broad Riverwalk: The Perfect Blend of Nature and Small-Town Charm
Stop No. 1: Chimney Rock State Park
The start of the Rocky Broad Riverwalk was strategically positioned at the entrance of Chimney Rock State Park because no trip to Western North Carolina is ever complete without a visit to our beloved state park. As one of the area’s main attractions, Chimney Rock State Park offers visitors endless opportunities to enjoy the area’s natural beauty. From panoramic vistas atop the overlook to extraordinary waterfalls, you’ll always find a new adventure in the 6,800-acre park!
Stop No. 2: Chimney Rock Village
The riverwalk runs parallel to Main Street in Chimney Rock Village, making it the ideal spot for wandering through town while admiring the rushing waters of the Rocky Broad River. You’ll find a little bit of everything along the main stretch, including restaurants, shops, art murals, and even rock climbing. Complete with scenic views and the mountainside’s natural beauty, the idyllic small-town feel of Chimney Rock Village is like nothing you’ve ever experienced!
Stop No. 3: Lake Lure Flowering Bridge
Enveloped in color, brilliant scenery, and stunning flowers, the Lake Lure Flowering Bridge is one of the most beautiful stops on the riverwalk. At more than 150 feet long, the bridge is made up of at least 15 gardens and houses hundreds of beautiful plants along with an incredible array of butterflies and songbirds.
Local tip: Once you reach the Lake Lure Flowering Bridge, the Rocky Broad Riverwalk ends and becomes the Towncenter Walkway. If you continue along the brick-paved path, you’ll reach Morse Park, Lake Lure beach, and the Lake Lure town center!
Stay Close to the Rocky Broad Riverwalk at The Esmeralda
Once you’ve enjoyed all the stops along the Rocky Broad Riverwalk, retreat to the warm hospitality of The Esmeralda. Our delightful mountainside bed & breakfast is minutes from the beloved riverwalk and even features our very own Esmeralda Park. With so much excitement, you’ll never run out of things to do here!
No matter which accommodation you stay in, our cozy bedding and remarkable amenities will ensure you get a peaceful slumber every night. This way, you’ll always have the energy to explore the mountains and take in all the beauty of Western North Carolina.
Don’t wait, check our availability, and treat yourself to the getaway of a lifetime on the banks of the Rocky Broad River.