FROM CHIMNEY ROCK
Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park will host the Deep South Mopar’s (DSM) Chapter from Upstate South Carolina and Northern Georgia for a Cruise-In on Saturday, May 28. The DSM group is expected to arrive in Chimney Rock Village around 2:15 p.m. and cruise up to the top parking lot. There the collection of about 20 modern Mopar muscle cars, which include two Dodge Vipers, Challengers and Chargers with HEMI engines packing up to 500HP, will be on display for public viewing until their 5:30 p.m. departure. The Park has a notable history with muscle cars. For 50 years Chimney Rock hosted a time trial race up the Park road called the Chimney Rock Hillclimb, which ran its last year in 1995.

“We’re excited about Chimney Rock. We love the two-lane mountain roads of North Carolina, and we ride mostly these roads. The beauty here speaks for itself, with the mountains, the views and the waterfalls,” said Shane Lindley, president of the Deep South Mopar’s Upstate Chapter.

Free tower Climb with admission
Chimney Rock’s climbing tower in the Meadows will be open to guests for a free climb Saturday and Sunday, May 28-29 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. with paid admission. In the case of inclement weather, the tower will be closed. Climbers who want a taste of real rock climbing can head to the top parking lot and climb below the Chimney with the guidance of Fox Mountain Guides! The 15-minute “tasters” cost $20 per person. Two-hour climbing clinics and half- and full-day climbs with Fox Mountain are available by appointment. Get more information at 888-284-8433 or http://chimneyrockpark.com/park/climbing/climbing_options.php.

Live critters make for family fun
Chimney Rock’s Memorial Day weekend isn’t just for climbers and auto lovers. While you’re at the climbing tower in the Meadows, families may want to check out Grady’s Animal Discovery Den, where children can meet Grady the Groundhog, the Park’s live mascot, and have fun eyeing live critters such as turtles, snakes and an opossum. The adjacent Great Woodland Adventure offers an easy .6-mile winding hike with 12 discovery stations, where Grady illustrates how his forest friends live, including chipmunks, frogs, owls and butterflies. Larger-than-life wood and metal sculptures bring the trail to life.

Park hours & admission
Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park is open seven days a week from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. with the Ticket Plaza closing at 5:30 p.m. Admission is $12 for adults and $5 for youth ages 6-15. Children under six are admitted free. In the event of inclement weather, check the Park’s website for opening status.

About Chimney Rock State Park
Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park is a 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 offers guests 75-mile panoramic views of Hickory Nut Gorge and Lake Lure. Hickory Nut Gorge, one of the state’s most significant centers of biodiversity, is home to 36 rare plant species and 14 rare animal species, as well as the second highest waterfall of its kind in the eastern United States. A popular destination for travel groups, weddings, special events and field trips, the Park is also known for its innovative hands-on educational programs for K-12 schools. Visit Chimney Rock’s website at chimneyrockpark.com. More information on current Capital Improvement projects at chimneyrockpark.com/progress or by calling 800-277-9611.Read the full article