Chimney Rock Park

   Building on the success of the park’s Climbing the Chimney event last fall, Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park is offering a spring fever cure for families with a taste for outdoor adventure. Participants can experience Chimney Rock from a different perspective rock climbing with Fox Mountain Guides, the Southeast’s leader in rock climbing education.

   The new Springtime Kids’ Climb will be held 11am-3pm Sat., March 29 near the park’s top parking lot, weather permitting. A 20-minute “taster” at Vista Rock costs $20 per climb for adults, plus park admission, but kids ages 7-15 can climb for half-price- only $10 plus admission. 

   The Park will begin peak season hours on March 22, open daily 8:30am-7pm, weather permitting, with the ticket plaza closing at 5:30 p.m. 

   “A fun, memorable outdoor experience can positively impact any child’s life. Our talented guides enjoy teaching climbing and outdoor skills to kids and adults of all ages and abilities. Chimney Rock is an exceptional location for this thanks to its family environment and the park’s incredible scenery,” said Cristin Julian, Owner, Fox Mountain Guides & Climbing School.

   During the climbing event, kids can meet Grady the Groundhog, the park’s animal ambassador, and other non-releasable critters that call Chimney Rock home. A State Park Ranger will be present to teach families about native wildlife with an educational display of animal skins and skulls.

   The park’s convenient, walk-up access to rock climbing makes the activity more popular for families, kids and first-time climbers.  Fox Mountain Guides, the largest climbing school and the only AMGA-certified guide service in the Southeast, provides all the equipment and instructions. Book a lesson online at www.foxmountainguides.com or by calling 888-284-8433.

   Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park is best known for its 75-mile panoramic views overlooking Lake Lure. Call 800-277-9611 or visit chimneyrockpark.com. For directions, parking and information on the Rumbling Bald Climbing Access, visit www.ncparks.gov.