When you live in (or simply visit) the Tar Heel State, you're never too far from an awe-inspiring view. But seeing those views shrouded in the splendor of autumn colors is another story altogether. It takes planning, coordination, and a bit of luck to arrive with perfect timing to capture a forever view of the peak colors at your preferred destination. And if there's one must-see attraction that's a phenomenal sight when surrounded by fall colors, it's Hickory Nut Gap Falls.
Featured in one of the final fight scenes in the 1992 major motion picture, "The Last of the Mohicans," Hickory Nut Gap Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls east of the Mississippi and drops an impressive 404 feet from the top of the mountain gap.
Too see it (for free) you only have to drive into downtown Chimney Rock, where you can see both the waterfall and the famous landmark known as Chimney Rock.
To get a better look, you'll need only to pay the gate fee at Chimney Rock State Park (costs are below) and drive up the mountain to the parking area.
Standing at the base of this epic waterfall is like looking straight up a tall building something like 40 stories high. As overwhelming as the view may be, the hike to get there is a piece of cake.
The hike to Hickory Nut Gap Falls is a short and sweet affair measuring in at .75-miles each way.
The trail is well carved into the landscape and is filled with hickory and oak trees — perfect for just the right amount of bright colors if you take this hike at just the right time in the fall season.
You'll find the trail has plenty of room, which is good since it's a popular trek within the park. Expect some upward motion on the way to the base of the falls, but it's not so tough that small children can't keep up.
You'll know you've arrived when you reach the small set of steps that lead up to the viewing platform at the base of the falls.
That final fight scene in the movie was filmed near the platform. Can you spot the location?
If your timing for this hike doesn't happen to coincide with the peak fall foliage dates, you'll still be in awe of this short hike and the epic waterfall at the end of the trail.
Hickory Nut Gap Falls Trail is located within Chimney Rock State Park. The hours for the park vary by season (you can see them here), but during the fall, the park ticket office closes at 5:30 until November 2 and then at 4:30 beginning November 3, and the park closes approximately 90 minutes later. According to ASU's annual fall color report, the peak time to visit Chimney Rock State Park for fall foliage is around October 14, 2019. Park admission for the day is $17/ages 16 and older, and $8/ages 5-15. Learn more about the park from the official website!
Address: 742 Chimney Rock Park Rd, Chimney Rock, NC 28720
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