Hike to Party Rock

This hike is a strenuous 2.4 miles that takes about 1.5 hours to complete. The trail is not maintained--it is an old logging road--so there are lots of loose rocks and you frequently have to hop over the washout/creek. However, the difficulty on the way up is extremely rewarding at the top!

The trailhead is the natural continuation of Carson Way – up the hill located to the left of the entry gate for Blue Heron Point. Once up the hill, it turns into a dirt road. Follow the dirt road approximately 200 yards and you will see a trail (another dirt road) entering from the left. Turn left.

Follow this trail up, up, and up some more. There are nice views of you peek between the trees on the way up. About 15-20 minutes in you will see a big washout with a tree over it – take the left side detour which bypasses the really washed out area and then gets you back on the main trail. At about 40 minutes in, you will see an old pickup truck dangling from a tree on the left side of the trail (you can't miss it).

About 5 more minutes on the main trail past the truck and you will see another trail entering on the left. Take this left turn for about 75 yards (the first downhill of the day) and you will see why this trail is worth the effort. As you approach the granite face you’ll see the finger of the lake by the beach and then when fully on the rock it’s like the whole world opens up. Beautiful views of all of Lake Lure, and if you walk to the right of the open face you will run into the waterfall.

Note that there is no official parking and the trail is a social trail so it is not well-maintained. The beginning portion of the trail also falls on private property...no we talked to said there have ever been complaints, but be respectful!