Chimney Rock State Park is in Rutherford County, about 25 miles southeast of Asheville. It overlooks Hickory Nut Gorge and Lake Lure with some of the state's most dramatic mountain scenery. The fee-based Chimney Rock attraction lets visitors hike to Hickory Nut Falls and take an elevator or climb to the top of the 315-foot freestanding rock spire. It has the most facilities of any state park, including riverside areas, exhibits and gift shops. The free Rumbling Bald area offers climbing and trail access.