Hickory Nut Falls Trail is a beautiful nature walk, including fall color (above) and spring rhododendron (below)
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2013 UPDATE: The hiking trail to the base of Hickory Nut Falls is CLOSED due to a landslide. Reopening date TBA.
The 404-foot tall Hickory Nut Falls at Chimney Rock State Park is one of the highest waterfalls east of the Mississippi. Take a leisurely hike on a mostly level 3/4-mile trail to enjoy a view at its base from a platform. While there is no swimming or wading in the cool water, there's a picnic table to enjoy a snack or meal with a view. The waterfall is most famous for being featured in the 1992 film The Last of the Mohicans with the final fight scene at the brink of the falls.
The 1.5-mile roundtrip hike is a beautiful walk through hardwood forests by rock cliffs. In spring, the Carolina Rhododendron puts on quite a show. See rare and endangered wildflowers as well as old favorites like Jack-in-the-pulpit and Solomon's seal. Leashed pets are welcome.
This trail starts from the lower end of the main parking area below the Chimney. The trail also connects with other trails in the Park, including the Four Seasons Trail that heads down the mountain and the Outcroppings Trail that climbs to the top of the Chimney.
The water flow varies depending on recent rainfall. During dry periods, the flow reduces to a small stream. While after a heavy rain, the flow is very impressive. You can also get a glimpse of Hickory Nut Falls high on the rock cliff from the valley in the village of Chimney Rock.
You must purchase a ticket to Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park to hike to the waterfall. See our Chimney Rock Guide to plan a visit! Read about other nearby waterfalls.
