Four Season Trail to Upper & Lower Hickory Nut Falls – Chimney Rock State Park, North Carolina

A breathtaking view from a spectacular rocky outcrop, a 120-meter-high waterfall from above and below, and idyllic forest sections in between: all of this awaits you on the approximately nine-kilometer hike in Chimney Rock State Park in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

After a short stretch of forest, the most exciting part of the hike follows: you climb Chimney Rock via a number of stairs, some of which are daringly built between the rocks. From the extraordinary vantage point, you have a fantastic view of the valley and the near and distant hills of the Appalachians.

On the plateau, you then hike relatively flatly to the viewpoint of Hickory Nut Falls. You will realize that these are not only overwhelming from above after you have climbed down from the plateau and hiked to the foot of the waterfalls. It is impressive how the water plunges over 120 meters into the depths here!

The drive to the park from both Asheville and Hendersonville takes around 35 minutes. While both cities are worth a visit, Hendersonville is a bit smaller, more manageable and quieter than hip Asheville.