Here's the press release from Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park:

CHIMNEY ROCK, N.C. (October 30, 2012)— Fall foliage in Hickory Nut Gorge is reaching peak color at the mid- and lower elevations this week. The northern red oaks and some black gum trees have turned red, adding accents to the rich golden hickories in the Park's Oak-Hickory forest. We recommend the spectacular 75-mile views of autumn color from atop the Chimney overlooking Lake Lure. You’ll find golds on the trail to the 404-foot Hickory Nut Falls, while the Four Seasons and Great Woodland Adventure trails display a brilliant mix of reds, yellows and oranges. Although the mountain ridges have lost many leaves due to recent high winds, most of the Gorge is showing its best autumn colors this week and into next week.

As warmer, sunnier weather returns later this week, grab your camera and hiking shoes to check out this season’s grand finale of fall color at Chimney Rock. Park admission is only $15 adult, $7 youth (ages 6-15) and free for kids under six. Weekly fall color reports are available to help you plan your visit at chimneyrockpark.com.


About Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park

Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park has been recognized as one of the Southeast’s most iconic and popular travel destinations for more than 100 years. The 535-million-year-old monolith called Chimney Rock offers guests 75-mile panoramic views overlooking Lake Lure and Hickory Nut Gorge. In 2012 the Park is celebrating the 20-year anniversary of the release of The Last of the Mohicans,which features Chimney Rock’s 404-foot waterfall and mountain scenery during the film’s final 17 minutes. The Park is located 30 minutes southeast of Asheville on Highway 64/74A in Chimney Rock, N.C. Call (800) 277-9611 or visit chimneyrockpark.com.