Chimney Rock News June 2020
Chimney Rock -- Press Release: New Park Updates – June 5, 2020
Since moving into Phase 2, we have slowly begun to reopen more and more amenities within the Park, while still emphasizing safe social distancing, handwashing/hand sanitizing, and masks where necessary. Here is what you need to know before visiting:
The Park is open Fridays – Tuesdays; the Ticket Plaza hours are from 8:30am – 4:30pm. Park closes at 7pm. We will continue to be closed on Wednesdays & Thursdays for construction on the top parking lot.
Since the Park will be operating at a “limited” parking capacity to allow for safe & maintainable social distancing, entrance into the Park will be on a first-come, first-serve basis. If capacity is reached, the Park will close to any further entry until some space has cleared to allow more vehicles to enter.
The top parking lot is still closed due to construction, so all guests will be required to park in the Meadows area (just past the Ticket Plaza).
While we are still encouraging guests to hike into the Park from the Meadows, we are now offering a limited shuttle service up to the top parking lot for those who are unable to hike. Facemasks or face coverings are required on all shuttles. Masks will be available for purchase for a minimal cost at the Ticket Plaza and in our gift shops. Shuttles will only be able to transport a limited number of guests per trip which may result in longer wait times. If you plan to ride the shuttle, please plan your day accordingly.
All annual passes purchased between March 2019 and March 2020 will receive an additional two months to their expiration date to make up for the period in which the Park was recently closed.
All six hiking trails are open, the Great Woodland Adventure trail is open for those looking for an easier, family-friendly hike. The Animal Discovery Den will be closed.
The elevator will remain closed at this time.
Cliff Dwellers gift shop and the Sky Lounge (near the Chimney) will be open with limited capacity. Snacks and bottled drinks will be available at both of these locations.
The Ticket Plaza will be accessible by drive-thru windows or the lobby will be available for one-person entry at a time.
The restrooms are open and will be marked with standing areas to provide proper social distancing. Beverage vending machines are also located next to each of these restrooms.
The Old Rock Café (in Chimney Rock Village) is open daily from 11am – 5pm for limited indoor and outdoor seating, which will be offered on a first-come, first-serve basis. Take-out service is also available. Please see OldRockCafe.com for more information.
Our associates will be taking appropriate precautions to protect the safety of ourselves and all of our guests. We are prepared and trained to handle any situation during this time.
Please recreate responsibly and continue to maintain proper social distancing, handwashing, and hygiene during your visit. Stay safe!
This plan is subject to change depending on circumstances. We appreciate your support and understanding during these unprecedented times and look forward to seeing you on the mountain sometime soon.