Chimney Rock Trail

Description:

• Chimney Rock Trail is a moderately difficult 4 mile trail with an elevation of 6,400 feet. This trail climbs moderately for one mile, reaching Chimney Rock at an elevation of 6,700 feet. Chimney Rock is a huge volcanic rock, 12 feet in diameter at its base, rising straight up for approximately 25 feet. At this point, with the splendid 360 degrees vista, there is no need to try to climb to the top of the rock for a better view. The trail continues eastward, descending under a lightly forested canopy. It then starts to climb again around Needle Point and Rattlesnake Peak until it reaches the end of Empire Creek Trail.

  Hikers who can arrange transportation may wish to descend the 2.5 miles into lovely Empire Creek Canyon instead of having to retrace their path to the Chimney Rock Trailhead. They can then be picked up at the Empire Creek Trailhead.