Best State Park in NC

Southern Living Magazine recently named the best state parks in every Southern state. Did you know that their selection for North Carolina is less than two hours away from Lake Norman? Located in Rutherford County only 25 miles outside of Asheville, the park featured as the Tar Heel State’s best state park is: Chimney Rock State Park! 

Often referred to as a hiker’s paradise, this park is the perfect day trip from Lake Norman. The iconic rock formation’s 315-foot spire is a draw for fitness enthusiasts and the 500 steps it takes to get to the top. Once there, views can often be seen 75-miles in all directions highlighting hiking trails like Hickory Nut Gorge Falls. (But don’t worry- Chimney Rock State Park is also known for its accessibility and elevator to the top of the spire for those who choose not to or are unable to climb the steps.)

Movie buffs might recognize Chimney Rock from its feature in the 1992 movie, ‘The Last of the Mohicans’, where the movie was filmed. 

Tickets for Chimney Rock State Park are $17 for adults, $8 for children ages 5-15, and free for children 4 and younger. Annual passes are $32 for adults and $14 for children ages 5-15. You can even buy tickets online!

When looking for a day trip from Lake Norman to get out in nature, visiting North Carolina’s best state park is definitely the way to go. To read the full list of the best state park in every Southern state, visit Southern Living.