Lake Lure / Chimney Rock

Since its 2007 acquisition as a state park, the 1880s landmark outdoor attraction Chimney Rock Park ( http://bit.ly/N0Yw5U) has been undergoing repairs and changes. After suffering a washed out road, a trail bridge destroyed by a land slide and an elevator that wouldnt elevate the big news for 2014 is everything has been fixed and fixed up. That includes trails where old boardwalks and steps are now updated walkways to awesome vistas.

Specialty hikes and walks ( http://bit.ly/1h6OwS5) scout out rare species, hike to the peak of the park and, in summertime, hike across the highest parts of the park.

With such great scenery, you dont have to be hiker. Start at the Old Rock Cafe and Medinas Bistro (both accessible to public parking) and stroll down the riverwalk, beside the Rocky Broad River, a nice natural walkway with a stone bridge, and access to shopping. Between Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, stroll The Flowering Bridge, a classic old highway bridge now devoted to pedestrians and flower gardens ( http://www.lakelurefloweringbridge.org).

You cant visit Lake Lure and miss Chimney Rock Park, so why not eat at Old Rock Cafe ( http://bit.ly/1lOmlwS) at the park entrance overlooking the Rocky Broad River? The menu starts with burgers from local grass-fed beef and includes produce, local jams and more.

When expensive isnt the goal, but great food and a view are, La Strada at Lake Lure ( http://www.lastradaatlakelure.com) satisfies with tasty Italian fare and a lakeshore view and outdoor dining that revels in the areas A-plus scenery. Point of View Restaurant ( http://www.thepointofview.com), a longtime Lake Lure eatery is in new hands but still the place for upscale, casual dinners with a view, seven nights week.

The landmark Esmeralda Inn ( http://www.theesmeralda.com) has burned down twice during its more than 120-year history as a stagecoach stop, post office, and hideout for silent film stars. The newest (1996) version retains the historic atmosphere of old and one of Chimney Rocks best eateries, with three delicious meals a day and Sunday brunch (the restaurant is closed Wednesdays).

Theres no better way to appreciate the area around the lake than a ride with Lake Lure Tours ( http://www.lakelure.com/activities), a guided one-hour tour boat excursion with a dose of history and great views of film locations including the lakeshore scenes for Dirty Dancing. Randy Johnson

The Charlotte Observer welcomes your comments on news of the day. The more voices engaged in conversation, the better for us all, but do keep it civil. Please refrain from profanity, obscenity, spam, name-calling or attacking others for their views.

Have a news tip? You can send it to a local news editor; email local@charlotteobserver.com to send us your tip - or - consider joining the Public Insight Network and become a source for The Charlotte Observer.

The Charlotte region is vast and diverse. The more voices engaged in conversation, the better for us all. The Charlotte Observer welcomes your comments on news of the day, but we ask that you keep the discourse civil.

See more here:
Lake Lure / Chimney Rock