Chimney Rock State Park Elevator Fire Alarm Investigated; Reservations Now Required

Lake Lure, N.C. – Emergency crews responded Saturday to a fire alarm at the Sky Lounge elevator inside Chimney Rock State Park, according to Rutherford County 911 emergency communications records. Officials reported no visible smoke or fire.

The park’s elevator will be closed on August 19 for "scheduled maintenance," the park's website said. The park itself remains open. All visitors, including Annual Passholders, must now make reservations online in advance at chimneyrockpark.com. Capacity is limited temporarily as recovery efforts continue from Hurricane Helene.

Currently, the only open route into Chimney Rock is coming through Lake Lure. Other routes—including US 74A from Asheville, US 64 from Hendersonville, and NC 9 from Black Mountain—are closed to non-local traffic. For GPS, use 665 Main Street, Chimney Rock, NC 28720.

Guests are advised to plan extra travel time and drive carefully.