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Hikes & Nature

Chimney Rock State Park

It reopened after Helene with timed-entry reservations, so book ahead unless you want to get turned away at the gate. The climb to the chimney and the Hickory Nut Falls trail are the classics here. In summer, pair it with a swim below the falls.

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Hikes & Nature

Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center

An easy loop hike that's dog-friendly and about as low-stress as trails get. It's a good one when you want fresh air without committing to a real climb. The center itself is worth a quick stop for maps and Parkway intel.