Temporary bridge under construction; Lake Lure restaurants are open

The new temporary bridge site being built to access Chimney Rock State Park. Jean Gordon Photo.

A temporary bridge is under construction by the North Carolina Department of Transportation for access to Chimney Rock Park. Weather permitting, the Park will be open in the summer of 2025. A permanent bridge will be erected where the Old Rock Cafe' was located to the right of the former bridge that washed away with Hurricane Helene that brought devastation to Chimney Rock Village seven months ago.

Construction and clean up is ongoing in the Village and toward Bat Cave, as evidenced by the photos taken recently along Highway 64/74 through the Village. Chimney Rock Village Council is extending the Check Point Entry and travel restrictions to May 31. Access requires a pass, but the Village is buzzing with excitement as huge strides are being made in renovating the downtown business district and restoring the water and sewer systems.

Lake Lure's restaurants are open and welcome your business.