Nestled within the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Hickory Nut Gorge is one North Carolina's most astounding areas of natural beauty, making it one of the state's most popular vacation destinations. The Gorge's stunning landscapes haven't gone unnoticed by the film industry, either. The area has served as a backdrop for a number of Hollywood blockbusters, including Dirty Dancing and The Last of the Mohicans.
From quaint mountain villages to exciting outdoor adventures, the Hickory Nut Gorge offers something for everyone.
Lake Lure
According to National Geographic, Lake Lure is “one of the most beautiful man-made lakes in the world.” The town of Lake Lure is home to little more than a thousand permanent residents, but the lake itself is one of the Hickory Nut Gorge's major recreational hot spots. Swimming, fishing, boating, canoeing, kayaking, and tubing are just some of the popular activities one can enjoy during the summer season. Boat tours can also be arranged with the 1927 Lake Lure Inn & Spa, located on the shores of Lake Lure.
Chimney Rock Village & Chimney Rock State Park
Chimney Rock Village may be a small mountain town, but it has one of the Hickory Nut Gorge's biggest attractions. The village is dominated by Chimney Rock, the natural skyscraper that towers 315 feet over the horizon and provides breathtaking views of the Gorge and the surrounding mountains from its summit. Chimney Rock is part of Chimney Rock State Park, which features hiking trails, rock climbing, viewing areas, and picnic spots.
Chimney Rock Village has the atmosphere of a traditional mountain village but all the amenities one would expect to find in a major tourist destination, including a variety of restaurants and cafes and a range of shops selling jewelery, crafts, and other souvenirs.
Bat Cave
Signs pointing to Bat Cave might have some drivers thinking they're headed to Batman's lair, but this North Carolina town is actually named after a nearby cave, at the foot of Bat Cave Mountain, that is inhabited by bats. There isn't much to the town of Bat Cave, but its location on the Rocky Broad River makes it a great photo spot. Visitors can also pick up some unique regional gifts at the general store on the edge of town, like moonshine jelly or apple butter.
Things to Do in Hickory Nut Gorge
Visitors to the Hickory Nut Gorge will find a variety of things to do, most of which take advantage of the outdoors. Nature-lovers will enjoy bird watching, fishing, and hiking. There are a range of activities for sporty types, including swimming, canoeing, water sports, rock climbing, horseback riding, golf, tennis, and cycling. Fossil-digging, gem mining, and panning for gold are big hits with children and families.
The Hickory Nut Gorge is ideally situated for exploring the nearby mountain towns of Asheville, Black Mountain, Hendersonville, and Flat Rock.
Getting to Hickory Nut Gorge
The closest major airport to the Hickory Nut Gorge is Asheville Regional Airport. Charlotte Douglas International Airport is about a two-hour drive from the Gorge. Drivers can get to the area via Interstate 85 or US Highway 64, which bisects the major towns of Lake Lure, Chimney Rock, and Bat Cave.
For more information on the Hickory Nut Gorge, including things to see and do or places to stay, visit the official web site for the Hickory Nut Gorge Chamber of Commerce.
Angela D. Stancar - Ever since my first trip to Europe as a teenager, I have had a passion for travel. Since then, I have had some unforgettable experiences: ...
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