The Chimney Rock State Park is home to a 535-million-year-old rock formation — the granite monolith aptly named Chimney Rock, which is one of the major attractions in North Carolina. Visitors can hike to the top of the 96-metre tall monolith to get a breath-taking view of the park, including the Blue Ridge Mountains, Hickory Nut Gorge and Lake Lure. If hiking is not your thing, fret not! The monolith is also accessible by elevator. At about 700 metres above sea level, visitors will literally get their breath taken away at the top, although the panoramic views will be well worth the effort.