~ rumbling bald ~
The Rumbling Bald Access, located in Rutherford County, is owned and operated by the state of North Carolina. It is a free access that gives means of entry the bottom of Rumbling Bald Mountain. Trails exist that lead to boulders and climbing routes. The Chimney Rock State Park’s Master Plan addresses access issues in regards to parking, trails, and climbing along Rumbling Bald Mountain.
The Friends of Chimney Rock State Park have supported this access through fund raising events, educational programming, and volunteer work days. The number two priority of the Friends is to assist in finishing the Rumbling Bald Loop Trail.
1.5 miles, round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Blaze: orange circle
The Rumbling Bald Trail is a loop trail that meanders through a beautiful hardwood forest
along the south face of Rumbling Bald Mountain, revealing huge boulder fields and the base
of the cliff areas. The parking area for this trail is located off Boys Camp Road between
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Once at the trailhead follow the orange trail blazes through
the bouldering areas, past the cliff base, and back to the parking area.
