Asheville Cabin Rental Blog

ASHEVILLE, NC – Once again, runners and cyclists can “Race to the Rock” at Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park. The 5K run and 7K cycling time trail are set for Sunday, August 29 at 8am. Both events are part of the 6th Annual Hickory Nut Gorge Olympiad and professionally managed by Set Up Events. The run is an Asheville Track Club Grand Prix Race.

Beginning in Chimney Rock Village and continuing up the Park’s winding entrance road, the race finishes just below Chimney Rock, the ancient monolith which gives the Park its name. While completing the race, averaging an uphill seven percent grade, is certainly reward enough, participants will also be treated to 75-mile views of Lake Lure, Hickory Nut Gorge and the Carolina Piedmont. Concessions after the race will be provided by the Chimney Rock Village Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary.

Spectators may watch the race’s finish, but must be in the park before 7:30am so the road is clear for runners and cyclists.

Advanced registration is $35 and includes a commemorative Olympiad T-shirt (while supplies last). Register online. Walk up registration will also be available beginning at 6:30am at the Old Rock Café in Chimney Rock Village and is $40. Proceeds benefit charitable organizations in the Hickory Nut Gorge. In its five years, the Olympiad has given nearly $50,000 to local charities.

The Hickory Nut Gorge Olympiad is a four-day sport and community celebration. With dozens of events from kayak races to a fireworks extravaganza, sand volleyball to live music, the Olympiad has something for everyone. More information can be found at www.hickorynutolympiad.com.

Chimney Rock is located 25 miles southeast of Asheville in Hickory Nut Gorge on Highway 64/74-A. The Park is the focal point of the developing Chimney Rock State Park. Admission for 2010 is $14 for adults and $6 for youth ages six through 15. Children under six are admitted free. For a full list of events and activities, visit www.chimneyrockpark.com or call 800-277-9611.