News-Record.com

Even through today's rain and fog, it's easy to see that the state made a great move in purchasing Chimney Rock Park. The 1,000-acre property rising above Hickory Nut Gorge in Rutherford County stands as one of North Carolina's top natural attractions.

When the Morse family decided to sell the park, fears flew that developers would grab this prime real estate looming over Lake Lure and build million-dollar vacation homes. Instead, the state spent $24 million to preserve it far into the future.

Although the deal closed in May, the Morse family is still operating the park for the time being. They do an outstanding job but charge $14 admission per adult. My guess is the state will have to maintain a similar fee structure, because upkeep is tremendously expensive. There's a three-mile paved road from Chimney Rock Village on U.S. 64, a 26-story elevator, miles of trails and other facilities, all kept in excellent condition.

Well-cared-for grounds are very important, both for visitors' convenience and for safety reasons. Trails edge along sheer cliff faces. Without fences, I imagine people would tumble over the side all the time, especially when it's wet and slippery like today. There are wooden stairways and boardwalks throughout, making hiking as easy an experience as possible, given the steep ascents and descents required to cover the park.

The natural features don't suffer as a result of easy access. They include the 404-foot Hickory Nut Falls, a narrow vertical shaft called the Needle's Eye, the Opera Box, the Subway and, of course, the famous Chimney Rock itself. The place is a photo op at every turn, a joy to explore.

On a clear, sunny day the views would be spectacular. That was not today. Still, when the fog and clouds parted every so often, it was possible to see where a roadway is being carved up the mountainside on the opposite side of the gorge from the park. The state can protect the park but not the view. At least the Chimney Rock acres will stay as they are -- a natural wonder available for the public's enjoyment.