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Chimney Rock State Park will host the 16th Annual Flock to the Rock on September 21, offering bird enthusiasts of all levels a chance to engage in a full day of feathered fun. The event features live raptor programs, interactive birding and pollinator activities, and beginner bird walks. Attendees will have ample opportunities to learn about both local and migratory bird species.
Early birds can get a head start at 7:30am with the Early Bird Walk, led by a local birding expert, before the park opens. The main event begins at 10am with a variety of family-friendly activities focused on local and migratory species. Throughout the day, guests can meet live raptors such as owls, hawks, and other feathered ambassadors thanks to park naturalists and partner organization, Wings to SOAR. Guests can help keep the tally of the dozens of bird species passing overhead by joining the Hawk Watch from the top of the Chimney. Visitors of all ages can also participate in beginner birding walks through the park's scenic trails.
With six unique hiking trails and Chimney Rock's status as an official stop on the NC Birding Trail, visitors will have plenty of opportunities to observe and appreciate the diverse avian life in the area.
Flock to the Rock is included with paid park admission: $17/adults, $8/youth (age 5-15), and free for children under five. The main event runs from 10am to 3pm. The Early Bird Walk requires advance registration and an additional fee.
For more information and to view the complete event schedule, visit https://www.chimneyrockpark.com/event/16th-annual-flock-to-the-rock/.
A Premier Birding Destination
From its winding riverbanks to its dramatic cliffs, Chimney Rock State Park is a haven for North Carolina resident birds, migrating birds and, of course, bird lovers. Birders of all experience levels have long flocked to the Rock to catch glimpses of their favorite birds. Chimney Rock is home to more than 130 species of birds throughout the year, including over 25 warbler species, vireos, tanagers, woodpeckers, thrushes, owls and a wide selection of birds of prey, including Peregrine Falcons. Chimney Rock is an official stop on the NC Birding Trail.
Home to the World's Fastest Bird of Prey
While at Chimney Rock, scan your binoculars along the Park's soaring cliffs and up into the surrounding sky for a chance to see the amazing acrobatics of a Peregrine Falcon high above Hickory Nut Gorge. Peregrine Falcons (Falco Peregrinus) may slice through the air at more than 60mph or dive on smaller birds in flight at speeds up to 200mph.
About Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park: Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park is a still-developing international outdoor destination located 25 miles southeast of Asheville on Highway 64/74A in Chimney Rock, N.C. It is recognized as one of the Southeast's most iconic sites and popular travel destinations. The Park's 535-million-year-old monolith called Chimney Rock can be accessed via a state-of-the-art elevator or the nearly 500-step Outcroppings Trail. At the top, guests can enjoy 75-mile panoramic views of the Hickory Nut Gorge and Lake Lure. The Park features one of the highest waterfalls of its kind east of the Mississippi River, Hickory Nut Falls. Hickory Nut Gorge, is one of the state's most significant centers of biodiversity, and is home to 36 rare plant species and 14 rare animal species. A destination for travel groups, weddings and special events, the Chimney Rock section of the Park also hosts innovative educational programs for field trips, scout groups, and summer camps. Visit Chimney Rock's website for more information.
