Chimney Rock State Park - Rumbling Bald - Lake Lure, NC
Located in scenic Lake Lure, North Carolina, Chimney Rock State Park – Rumbling Bald is a top destination for pet owners seeking beautiful, dog-friendly hiking and outdoor adventures. Known for its stunning mountain vistas, impressive boulders, and well-maintained trails, this segment of Chimney Rock State Park is unique because it’s free to enter and offers a welcoming environment for hikers, families, and their four-legged friends. This park is especially ideal for visitors looking for pet-friendly trails and opportunities to explore the natural beauty of western North Carolina.
With a variety of well-marked hiking loops, both beginner and experienced hikers can enjoy easy walks through the woods or more challenging climbs over rocks and inclines. There is plenty of parking, some seating areas along trails, and shady spots to rest, making it a comfortable spot for both dogs and their owners. While the park does get busy during peak times, early arrivals and off-season visits ensure a more tranquil experience. Whether you’re in search of dog-friendly hiking in Lake Lure, a peaceful spot for a picnic, or simply breathtaking views, Rumbling Bald delivers.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the park features several well-marked and maintained hiking trails that are great for dogs and their owners.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, there are shady areas and some seating along the river and throughout the park.
- Are restrooms available for owners? Yes, restrooms are available near the parking and main entrance areas.
- Is the park open year-round? Yes, the park is open year-round, but visitors should check for seasonal updates or weather impacts.
- Is there a fee or membership required to enter? No, Rumbling Bald is the only area of Chimney Rock State Park that does not require an entry fee.
- Where is the best place to park? There is convenient and spacious parking available on site; during busy times, plan to arrive early for the best spot.
- Is the park regularly cleaned and maintained? Yes, the trails and facilities are well-maintained and clean.
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? Dogs must remain leashed while visiting the park, as there is no designated off-leash dog area.
Reviews
Very cool bouldering park and 1.5 mile loop.
We were staying close about an hour away for an event and decided to drive up. My family had a great time. Our 6 year old did not want to leave. He said it was “amazing”. We took the elevator up and the stairs back down.
Great place for hiking and simple walk in woods. Beautiful nature, options to climb on small or big rocks. Decent parking. We loved it!
While in Lake Lure, NC, my wife and I and Squirt hiked some of the trails in this part of the Chimney Rock State Park system.
This portion of the park is the only part of the Chimney Rock State Park system that does not require a cost to enter.
We hiked around the large boulders and enjoyed the scenery in spite of all the still visible devastation from Hurricane Helena.
VERY scenic and worth the trip to and effort to navigate the trails. We hiked a little over 2 miles. We’ll be back to try some more trails.
👍👍👍👍👍
Beautiful hike in the Summer or Fall. The fall offers distance views. Not a lot of elevation in the hikes and the trails are clearly marked and maintained. There are plenty of opportunities to leave the trail for exploring and easy to return to it. Park can be very busy during the rock climbing season but it is fun to watch the climbers