Naturalist Niche Series

Join an expert naturalist on park trails once a month March – December to learn about birding, old growth trees, ancient geology and other fascinating outdoor topics.

We love our visitor’s furry friends, but we do understand that some hike participants may consider animals a distraction on the trail. Pets are not allowed on Naturalist Niche hikes because of this.

Cost: Includes Park admission: $23 Adult, $8 Annual Passholder, $13 Youth (ages 5-15), $6 Rockin’ Discovery Passholder. Advance registration required.

MARCH 31st … Ridge Hike … The trails of Chimney Rock are amazing, but a guided hike off-the-beaten-path can lead you to places you never knew existed! Join us for this early spring venture on one of our most popular excursions. You’ll discover seasonal changes along your trek that will introduce you to a whole new perspective of the Park. This hike is considered moderately-strenuous.

APRIL 14th … Spring Wildflowers … This walk is a great way to explore some of our more moderate hiking options while learning about our colorful spring flowers. You’ll be surprised to find such a variety of plants within such a small area of the Park. Along the way, we’ll also touch on other local flora and fauna. This hike is considered moderate. You will descend the Four Seasons Trail from the top lot, but you won’t have to hike back up. Transportation will be provided.

MAY 5th 9:00am… Spring Migration Bird Walk … Spring is for the birds! Dozens of species migrate through our area every spring as they head north. Join us to find how many different species you can see and hear that are making their way home. Don’t forget your binoculars. A Park bird list can be found here. This hike is considered easy- to- moderate.

JUNE 2nd 9:30am … Fall Creek Exploration … Hickory Nut Falls is one of the highest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River. A common question we often get from Park guests is “where does the water come from.” This hike offers the rare opportunity to explore the origination of the feeder creek, Fall Creek, and follow it as it leads to the upper cascades of this beautiful waterfall. This hike is considered strenuous.

JULY 14th 9:00am … Old Growth Forest Frolic … Old-growth stands can be found in rare pockets throughout the Blue Ridge and the Smoky Mountains. One of those small areas is right here in Chimney Rock State Park. This moderate hike rambles through an area typically not open to the public in order to introduce participants to characteristics of old growth forests and native trees.

AUGUST 11th 9:00am … Top of the Mountain Trek … This naturalist-led hike explores the top of Chimney Rock Mountain where you’ll discover a much different world than in the main portion of the Park. Learn about the fascinating history of this area and more about the wildlife that can be found utilizing this unique habitat. This hike is considered moderate -to-strenuous.

SEPT 15th 7:00am … Fall Migration Bird Walk … The early bird gets…to see and hear early birds! This special bird walk was designed to start before the Park opens to ensure participants get the best chance to encounter a variety of birds. Taking place during fall migration also enhances the number of species expected to be in our area. This hike is considered moderate and is the prelude to our 10th Annual Flock to the Rock event which starts at 11am.

OCT 20th 7:30pm … Nature at Night … After the sun goes down, the fun begins! From hoots to howls you never know what you’ll hear or see during one of our nighttime naturalist programs. The guided night hike and owl prowl will keep the entire family intrigued during this non-scary fall adventure. All activities are considered easy –to- moderate so the entire family can attend.

NOV 24th 9:00am … Ecology of Chimney Rock … Of course, we are known for our amazing views, but some of the most incredible aspects of this area are often overlooked. Local naturalist Clint Calhoun has spent decades researching and studying what makes the ecology of Chimney Rock State Park and Hickory Nut Gorge so unique. Join him for this moderate hike to learn so much more about what makes our area so special.

DEC 29th 10:30am … Winter Tree ID … It’s no surprise that recognizing trees without their leaves can be tricky! Bark, twigs and buds are your best tools when familiarizing yourself with our woody friends this time of year. Join naturalist and author Ron Lance to demystify the art of knowing your trees no matter the season. This hike is considered moderate.