CHIMNEY ROCK STATE PARK

It is still a couple of hours before dawn. The pre-dawn finds our car slowly winding it's way up the mountain, to a parking lot at the top of Chimney Rock State Park. As I get out of the car, my brain, foggy from lack of sleep and an hour of hair pin turns, suddenly is awoken by the chilly, night time air. The sound of a hammered dulcimer chimes somewhere off in the distance. As we approach the landing, the music grows louder. People are milling about, grabbing coffee, finding places to sit, huddled in blankets or stomping their feet in an attempt to keep warm. Anticipation is hanging in the air.

As the young and old, families, couples, friends all gather at the top of the mountain, after driving during peak bedtime hours, you have to wonder, what has drawn us all to the top of this mountain. Free entrance to the park is only the icing on the cake (though at $9.00 a ticket, one has to complement the merits of the icing). Today is Easter Sunday, and we all have gathered up here for the park's traditional Easter Sunrise Service. Sunrise Chimney Rock style

My friends and I make our way to the wall, finding just enough room for our share of the front row viewing. The wall is extremely cold, and heightens the already intense chill in my bones. We are all waiting, excited, straining our eyes to be the first to glimpse the faint glow of light, that will gradually grow, and cast a rainbow of colors, until the sun come blazing up, into the welcoming arms of the surrounding mountains, the river playing it's part as a mirror, intensifying the beauty. As the sun stretches itself into the sky, I can't help but be amazed that this incredible viewing occurs 365 days a year. All days but one, only the rocks bear witness.

There is much more to see and do in Chimney Rock State Park after the sun has made it's long awaited appearance, and the service in celebration of Easter has concluded (if you are not too tired from the drive up). My friend decided that he is of the latter inclination, and I am left to go exploring, while he catches a snooze in the car. It is quickly apparent, in the long lines to the elevator leading to the top of the mountain, that there certainly are downsides to visiting the park on this famous day.

Fortunately, there is more than one access to the trails leading around the park, a long stair climb seems inviting, if not invigorating, and I take "the road less traveled." The stairs end up to be an adventure in and of themselves, wooden, built into the sides jutting rocks, and cracks. One particular spot "the eye of the needle" might trigger a sense of claustrophobia, as the stairs make their way between two rock, in a space that narrows and steepens towards the top.

One of Chimney Rock's big "Claims to Fame" is fact that "The Last of the Mohican's" was filmed here. As I follow the trail, leading above, and hugging the steep sides of the mountain, I gain a sense of appreciation for the movie. The trail is very well developed, with wooden sidewalks, and railing covering most of it. If you are looking for a backcountry experience, this would not be the place to go. If you want some great views, and a fun, safe time with the entire family, Chimney Rock is your park. (If you want to see the sunrise the calendar is marked, your bed will miss you).

Lunar Moth I rescued from a gas station on our way to Chimney Rock State Park, and later released in Rutherfordton. I have serious doubts about it's survival, but here's hoping!