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The Carter Lodge

Chimney Rock, NC

The Carter Lodge
ABOUT

Welcome

The Carter Lodge is Chimney Rock's premier destination hotel! Our rustic boutique hotel is nestled in the heart of the Hickory Nut Gorge. We are located at the base of a 315 ft monolith, a 535-million-year-old structure that provides an awe-inspiring view that spans for 75 miles. We have luxurious accommodations, friendly staff, and incredible amenities. Out of all hotels in Chimney Rock NC you won’t find a better place to relax and take in the breathtaking scenery. 

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Whether you are in town for a romantic weekend getaway, hiking "the Rock" with friends, or browsing the shops and boutiques, The Carter Lodge will make sure your stay is a memorable one. Newly renovated with high end furniture and fixtures, The Carter Lodge offers all of the amenities you have come to expect!  

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Our unique location, combined with luxurious amenities, makes The Carter Lodge the perfect destination for a relaxing and unforgettable getaway!

ROOMS
Honeymoon Suite

OUR ROOMS

Our newly renovated hotel rooms offer the perfect combination of luxury and comfort. Guests will enjoy hard wood floors, handmade rustic furniture, high-end fixtures, and granite counter tops. Enjoy the exquisite views of the Broad River and Chimney Rock from every room, plus experience ultimate relaxation with plush bedding and unique decor. Offering adjustable beds and Bluetooth bathroom fans in select rooms provides an added touch of luxury!

OUR SERVICES

OUR SERVICES

Cafe'

 

The Carter Lodge Cafe is stocked with snacks, drinks, Gourmet sandwiches, and even fresh meats to throw on the grill. It is your one stop shop in Chimney Rock!

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Coming Soon

Garden

 

Located on the bank of The Broad River, our hotel is backed by lush gardens and stunning views. Enjoy a glass of wine on the terrace, take a leisurely stroll through the garden, or challenge a friend to a game of checkers or cornhole. Take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and relax with us.

BBQ - Outdoor Kitchen

 

We are proud to offer our guests the convenience of our outdoor kitchen. Featuring BBQ grills, refrigerated storage, and a large granite work surface all under a covered pavilion. Take advantage of the opportunity to enjoy fresh cuts of meat purchased from our cafe to cook on the grill by the river with family and friends.

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Free Wifi

 

High Speed FIOS wifi internet available for all guests!

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Boat Rentals

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At our hotel, we offer pontoon boat rentals on beautiful Lake Lure. Enjoy a day of fishing, swimming, or simply taking in the scenery from the comfort of your own pontoon boat. Reserve your boat rental today to make the most of your stay.

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All Boat Renters must possess a NC Boaters License  Info: https://www.townoflakelure.com/parksreclak/page/lake-lure-boater-safety-course-and-test

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Obtain a License by taking the online

test here: https://www.townoflakelure.com/boater-safety-test

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Pet Friendly Rooms

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We understand that your pet is part of the family and that’s why we strive to make them feel right at home. Come and experience the ultimate in pet friendly hospitality today!

GALLERY

GALLERY

SEE & DO

THINGS TO DO

Hiking 

Kayaking

Fishing 

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Rafting 

Boating 

Ziplining

Golfing 

Swimming

Sunbathing

Canyoneering

Rock Climbing

Horseback Riding

Shopping

Dining 

Sightseeing

Wine Tasting

Live Music

Nothing - Just Relax!




Places To Go

Chimney Rock State Park

Chimney Rock State Park

At the center of it all is Chimney Rock State Park. Here vistiors can observe the local wildlife, Hike, climb, and Picnic. The parks main attraction is the 315 ft monolith "Chimney Rock". 

Lake Lure Flowering Bridge

Lake Lure Flowering Bridge

You will find over 2000 species of plants at the Lake lure flowering bridge. Take a leisurely stroll or participate in the provided scavenger hunt. You will also have a stunning view of Chimney Rock along the way.

Chimney Rock Village

Chimney Rock Village

Chimney Rock Village is the small town with something for everyone. Main Street is filled with shops, boutiques, restaurants and bars. Grab an ice cream or a coffee and explore all that Chimney Rock Village has to offer. 

Lake Lure Beach

Lake Lure Beach

Relax on the lake's sandy beach, take a swim, or play in the water park located right on the beach! There is also a large, covered area to enjoy a picnic!

Rock Broad Riverwalk

Rocky Broad RiverWalk

The River walk is a beautiful riverside path that runs along the edge of the river, where you can stroll along and take in stunning views of the river. For the more adventurous, there are plenty of rocks to climb and explore in between the river and the restaurants and shops. 

Burntshirt Vineyard Tasting Room & Bistro

Burntshirt Vineyard Tasting Room & Bistro

Here, you can enjoy a variety of wines, beers, and "Southern Winery cuisine", all while taking in the stunning views of both Chimney Rock and Hickory Nut Falls from the outdoor patio.

Explore Chimney Rock State Park

The view from the top of Chimney Rock
Hickory Nut Falls in Chimney Rock State Park

Above are the views from the top of Chimney Rock, and Hickory Nut Falls. 

Below is a list of everything Chimney Rock State Park has to offer!

 

01

Chimney Rock

Chimney Rock is a 315 ft monolith that is 535 million years old, you can experience breathtaking views that span for 75 miles.

 

 

04

Animal Discover Den

Home to some of the parks wildlife, meet Mufasa the Eastern King Snake, Petunia the Snapping Turtle, and Ossie the Opossum, among others.

 

02

Hickory Nut Falls

At 404 ft, Hickory Nut Falls is North Carolina's 2nd highest waterfall. An easy .75 mile hike will take you to the base of the falls! *Featured in the movie "The Last of the Mohicans"

 

05

Gift Shop

Purchase a local treasure all while enjoying award winning live music right outside the shop.

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03

Hiking Trails

*Exclamation Point Trail - 1.2 Miles RT

*Four Seasons - .6 Miles

*Great Woodland Adventure - .6 mile guided trail .

*Skyline Trail - 2.2 Miles RT

*Rumbling Bald Trail - 1.5 Mile loop

06

Rock Climbing 

Partnered with Fox Mountain Guides North Carolina Rock Climbing (foxmountainguides.com), chimney rock state park offers 2 hour, half day, and full day rock climbing sessions

The Hickory Nut Gorge in Chimney Rock NC

So Much More to do...

Activities

  1. Chimney Rock Gem Mine                                                 

  2. Green River Adventures                       

  3. Canopy Ridge Farm : Zipline Adventure Park     

  4. Cedar Creek Stables -Horse Rental Service in Lake Lure , NC                

  5. Chimney Rock Country Fair | Chimney Rock Village | NC                       

  6. Old Time Photo Saloon 

Let's Eat!

  1. Chimney Rock Smokehouse                     

  2. Riverwatch Bar & Grill   

  3. Old Rock Cafe - Pick up a "Hikers Lunch" on Ur way into the park!      

  4. The Veranda Restaurant                        

  5. The Lakehouse                  

  6. Burntshirt Vineyards Tasting room & Bistro                                               

  7.  The Highlands kitchen & Bar                                                                      

  8. The Stagecoach Saloon

Live Music

  1. Chimney Rock Smokehouse                                          

  2.  Lured Market & Grill                                           

  3. Burntshirt Vineyards Tasting Room & Bistro     

  4. Chimney Rock Brewing                             

  5. Riverwatch Bar & Grill - Live Music Every Friday Night from 5-8

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Shopping

  1. Doug Bowman Galleries                            

  2. Bubba O’leary’s General Store and Outfitters                          

  3. Harley Davidson              

  4. April’s Boutique               

  5. Gale’s Shop                      

  6. Chimney Rock Gemstone Mine and Jewelry Co.

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October Events

10/02 - Trivia Night at Chimney Rock Brewing Co.

Enjoy a night out at Chimney Rock Brewing Co. sitting along the river sipping a beer (wine also available) while playing trivia. Bring your friends or make some new ones. Monday October 2nd from 5-8pm

https://www.chimneyrockbrewing.net/home

10/04 - Trivia Night at Legends

Take on trivia night at Legends on the Lake. Put your mind to the test with challenging and engaging questions. Form your team and join us in the game room of Legends on the Lake. 

For seating purposes, teams are limited to 8 people per group. The Legends? regular menu will be available during trivia nights along with full bar service.

 

Don't have a team formed? Each week we will have a ?super singles? group for any solo participants. 

Open to Members, Lodging Guests, and the General Public. 6:30- 9:00pm

https://rumblingbald.com/plan-your-visit/#section-dining-atrumbling-bald

10/06 - 2023 Farmers Market

TIME: Market days are Fridays, from 4-7pm

NEW LOCATION! Morse Park

VENDORS: Local farmers and hand-craft artisans ONLY
EXTRA aLUREing: Each week, we will feature Live Entertainment
and a Food Truck

https://hickorynutchamber.org/farmers-market-lake-lure

10/06 - 10/22 Lake Lure Flowering Bridge - Dogwood Days Online Art Auction

The Lake Lure Artists and other artistic friends have created 41 unique pieces of art celebrating the beautiful Dogwood blossom, the state flower of NC. These pieces will be auctioned off ONLINE ONLY beginning October 6 through October 22. Proceeds benefit the LLFB Education Center project. Go to www.llfb.org to view all of these stunning pieces and to sign up to bid. All pieces are currently on display at the Lake Lure Flowering Bridge.

https://lakelurefloweringbridge.org/

10/06 - Craig St John Live at Chimney Rock Brewing Co.

Enjoy Live Music at the Chimney Rock Brewing Co. - Craig St. John will be playing by the river from 3:30 - 6:00pm
https://www.chimneyrockbrewing.net/home

10/06 - Fae Nectar - Timothy Kelley - Live Performance

Timothy Kelley joins us at Fae Nectar every Friday with his fantasy looping violin shows!  The music begins at 6:00 pm and the bonfire lights at 7:00 pm!  Mead, Beer, and N/A Drinks are always available along with food from our great friends at Munch Box food truck!
https://www.faenectar.com/

10/07 - Lake Lure Music Festival Presents Salon Musique

Join us for a wonderful evening of chamber music in the style of a "Salon Musique" where you will experience the finest musicianship in an intimate setting. The musicians, Chee-Yun (violin) and Wendy Sutter (cello) will not only play but be in conversation with you as they speak to the inspiration of the music and how they approach playing it. You will get to meet and spend time with some of the finest musicians working in classical music the world over. Right here in Lake Lure! 
https://lakeluremusicfestival.com/

10/07 - 10/28 - Chimney Rock State Park Fall Animal Encounters

Do you know our staff has a wild side? Join a Park naturalist to meet some of our live Animal Ambassadors and learn about the types of wildlife in the area and their jobs. Some of our best educators have feathers, fur, shells or scales! Note: this event is Saturdays only.
https://www.chimneyrockpark.com/event/fall-animal-encounters/

10/07 - Chimney Rock State Park Annual Passholder Sunrise Breakfast

Imagine watching the sunrise over Lake Lure and the Hickory Nut Gorge with a warm cup of coffee in hand. Our annual passholders enjoy early access to the Park at this exclusive event. Savor your delicious breakfast prepared by the Old Rock Cafe and hit the trails after sunrise to take advantage of the quiet before the Park opens. This event is exclusively for Annual Passholders.
https://www.chimneyrockpark.com/event/annual-passholder-sunrise-breakfast-3/

10/08 - Reverie Woods Live at Chimney Rock Brewing Co.

Enjoy Live Music at the Chimney Rock Brewing Co. - Reverie Woods will be playing by the river from 3:00 - 6:00pm
https://www.chimneyrockbrewing.net/home

10/09 - Open Mic Night at Chimney Rock Brewing Co

Name: Open Mic Night at Chimney Rock Brewing Co

Date: October 9, 2023

Time: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM EDT

Event Description:

Come bring your instrument, your voice or your ears!

https://www.chimneyrockbrewing.net/home

10/10 - Adult Learn to Row

Learn to row course-for any skill level!  $450 for 6 sessions ($150 can be applied to your 2024 membership - usually $400/year).  Planning evening sessions on October 10, 12, 17, 24 and one morning session on October 21 at 7:30am.  Times may flex as needed by participant.  Get a new view of Lake Lure and some exercise to boot!
https://hickorynutchamber.org/events/details/adult-learn-to-row-17057

10/12 - Knitting Class 12:30-2:30

Mountains Branch Library is hosting a 4-week knitting class every Thursday in October! Supplies must be purchased prior to attending the class.Registration is required. To register and find the list of supplies, call Mountains Branch Library at 828-287-6392 or visit us online at
www.rutherfordcountylibrary.org/events-calendar

10/13 - Fae Nectar - Timothy Kelley - Live Performance

Timothy Kelley joins us at Fae Nectar every Friday with his fantasy looping violin shows!  The music begins at 6:00 pm and the bonfire lights at 7:00 pm!  Mead, Beer, and N/A Drinks are always available along with food from our great friends at Munch Box food truck!
https://www.faenectar.com/

10/14 - Music Fun Day - Bills Creek Community Center

Join us at Bills Creek Community Center for a day filled with incredible music and endless fun at Lake Lure Music Fun Day! The event features an amazing lineup of performers including the talented Walter Finley & April Dawn, Rod Sphere and John Hampton. Delicious hot dogs and hamburgers will be available for sale. Admission to the Music Fun Day is free ensuring that everyone can come together to celebrate the power of music and community. Mark your calendars for October 14 and join us for an unforgettable experience. Bring your lawn chairs!! See you there!
https://www.billscreekcommunitycenter.com/

10/15 - Marley's Chain Live at Chimney Rock Brewing Co.

Name: Marley's Chain Live at Chimney Rock Brewing Co.

Date: October 15, 2023

Time: 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM EDT

Enjoy live music by the river! 

https://www.chimneyrockbrewing.net/home

10/21 - Broad River Jam > Live At Chimney Rock Brewing Co.

Name: Broad River Jam > Live At Chimney Rock Brewing Co.

Date: October 21, 2023

Time: 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM EDT

Enjoy live music on the river!

https://www.chimneyrockbrewing.net/home

10/21 - Nature at Night Hike at Chimney Rock State Park

Watch as the Park comes alive under the shadow of darkness on this guided evening excursion with a Park naturalist. Do you know which animals come out along the Hickory Nut Falls trail when the sun goes down? Get ready to learn more about the Park’s rarely-seen residents 10/21/23 @ 7:30 - 9:30pm.
https://www.chimneyrockpark.com/event/nature-at-night-hike-10/

10/27 - On the Menu with Maria

Pumpkin Risotto with Bacon and Parmesan is on the menu with Maria! No registration required for this cooking demonstration and tasting!
10/27/23 @ 1 - 3pm Mountains Branch Library 150 Bills Creek Rd.

https://hickorynutchamber.org/events/details/on-the-menu-with-maria-10-27-2023-17041

10/28 - Naturalist Niche: Fall Color Hike

Fall color is not only the reason hundreds of people travel to WNC each year, it’s also one of highlights of the year for locals. Toward the end of the season Hickory Nut Gorge comes alive with gorgeous shades of gold and red. Join a naturalist and learn more about fall flora and fauna in the Park as you take in the beauty of the season.
9am - 12pm

https://www.chimneyrockpark.com/event/naturalist-niche-fall-color-hike-3/

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November Events

11/01 - Trivia Night at Legends

Take on trivia night at Legends on the Lake. Put your mind to the test with challenging and engaging questions. Form your team and join us in the game room of Legends on the Lake. 

For seating purposes, teams are limited to 8 people per group. The Legends? regular menu will be available during trivia nights along with full bar service.

 

Don't have a team formed? Each week we will have a ?super singles? group for any solo participants.

 

Open to Members, Lodging Guests, and the General Public. 6:30 - 9:00pm

https://rumblingbald.com/plan-your-visit/#section-dining-atrumbling-bald

11/06 - 11/27 - Hike with a Naturalist

Spend an hour hiking one of the Parks’ six trails with a naturalist. Discover the fall flora and fauna of the Park on this educational excursion. You may even learn some of the Park’s history as well. Meet in front of Cliff Dwellers Gifts.

https://www.chimneyrockpark.com/event/hike-with-a-naturalist-4/

11/08 - Passholder Experience: Basswood Adventure

Chimney Rock Park 9-11am

Have you heard of our legendary Basswood tree? Designated as a Champion Tree, it’s certainly nothing to scoff at. Not many guests see it, as it is not along one of our marked trails. Venture off the beaten path on this moderate-to-strenuous hike with the help of an experienced guide to visit the famous basswood and learn what makes it special. This event is exclusively for Annual Passholders.

https://www.chimneyrockpark.com/event/passholder-experience-basswood-adventure/

11/11 - Mindfulness Hike Chimney Rock State Park

Join Namaste in Nature for a reflective meditation walk. As the holidays approach, take time for self-care and de-stress away from the hustle and bustle. Reconnect with nature and yourself this fall.

11-1pm

https://www.chimneyrockpark.com/event/mindfulness-hike-3/

11/15 - Trivia Night at Legends on the Lake

Take on trivia night at Legends on the Lake. Put your mind to the test with challenging and engaging questions. Form your team and join us in the game room of Legends on the Lake. 

For seating purposes, teams are limited to 8 people per group. The Legends? regular menu will be available during trivia nights along with full bar service.

 

Don't have a team formed? Each week we will have a ?super singles? group for any solo participants. 

Open to Members, Lodging Guests, and the General Public. 6:30- 9:00pm

https://rumblingbald.com/plan-your-visit/#section-dining-atrumbling-bald

11/18 - Naturalist Niche: Fall Birding Hike

8:30 - 10:30am

Though most migrating birds have made their way through our area by this point in the year there are plenty of species who will spend the cooler months with us. The opening canopy due to falling leaves makes late fall a great time to witness some of these feathered friends. Join a local birding expert to identify some of these species.

https://www.chimneyrockpark.com/event/naturalist-niche-fall-birding-hike/

11/24 - 11/26 - Thanksgiving Weekend Animal Encounters Chimney Rock State Park

Do you know our staff has a wild side? Join a Park naturalist to meet some of our live Animal Ambassadors and learn about the types of wildlife in the area and their jobs. Some of our best educators have feathers, fur, shells or scales!

https://www.chimneyrockpark.com/event/thanksgiving-weekend-animal-encounters-3/

11/29 - Trivia Night at Legends on the Lake

Take on trivia night at Legends on the Lake. Put your mind to the test with challenging and engaging questions. Form your team and join us in the game room of Legends on the Lake. 

For seating purposes, teams are limited to 8 people per group. The Legends? regular menu will be available during trivia nights along with full bar service.

 

Don't have a team formed? Each week we will have a ?super singles? group for any solo participants. 

Open to Members, Lodging Guests, and the General Public. 6:30- 9:00pm

https://rumblingbald.com/plan-your-visit/#section-dining-atrumbling-bald

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chamber powerhour # hotels in chimney rock nc # the carter lodge
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GUEST REVIEWS

How satisfied are you? *****

Write your testimonial:

My recent stay at The Carter Lodge was nothing short of a delightful escape into rustic luxury. Nestled along the riverbank with a stunning backdrop of majestic mountains, this charming lodge exceeded all expectations. From the moment I arrived, I was captivated by the tranquil ambiance and picturesque surroundings.

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One of the standout features of The Carter Lodge is undoubtedly its prime location. Situated within walking distance to the town, it strikes the perfect balance between seclusion and convenience. This allowed us to explore the local attractions, dine at nearby restaurants, and immerse ourselves in the vibrant community without any hassle.

 

The lodge itself is a true testament to rustic elegance. Our renovated room was a cozy haven, exuding an authentic mountain lodge feel while still offering modern comforts. The attention to detail in the design was remarkable, seamlessly blending wood accents, earthy tones, and tasteful furnishings. It was clear that the lodge's owners had put thought and care into creating a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere.

 

Cleanliness is of paramount importance to me, and The Carter Lodge excelled in this aspect. The room was immaculate, reflecting a high standard of housekeeping. It's always a pleasure to relax in a space where you can genuinely unwind, knowing that hygiene is a top priority.

Of course, what truly stole my heart was the breathtaking view that greeted us every morning. Waking up to the sight of the sun painting the mountains with warm hues while the river flowed gently by was a soul-soothing experience. It's one thing to read about such vistas, but to actually wake up to them is an entirely different and awe-inspiring sensation. T

 

Though our schedule didn't permit us to make use of the outdoor kitchen, it was impossible not to notice its allure. From what we observed, it was a fully equipped culinary haven that beckoned for barbecues and al fresco dining, promising unforgettable gatherings under the open sky. In conclusion, The Carter Lodge offers an enchanting retreat for those seeking a blend of natural beauty, rustic charm, and modern comfort. The proximity to town, the meticulously renovated rooms, and the impeccable cleanliness make it an excellent choice for a getaway. Even without experiencing the outdoor kitchen firsthand, its mere presence added an exciting dimension to our stay.

If you're looking for a place to unwind, reconnect with nature, and create lasting memories, The Carter Lodge comes highly recommended. My stay here was a rejuvenating escape, and I can't wait to return to relive the experience.

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Barbara Sevacko - Charlotte, NC

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