February 2
Pumpkin the Groundhog will make his debut at Chimney Rock Park to search for his shadow to predict our next six weeks of winter weather. Since this is Pumpkin's first-ever Groundhog Day, staff and naturalists want to limit his stress and avoid the in-person event. You can watch the stream live on Chimney Rock's Facebook page beginning at 10 AM. If Pumpkin sees his shadow, then the prediction is for six more weeks of wintry weather. If he does not see his shadow, there will be an early spring.
Pumpkin the Groundhog makes his 2022 debut!
This famous folklore has been around since the 1880s with the celebrity groundhog Punxsutawney Phil in Pennsylvania. Pumpkin will have help at Chimney Rock since other members of the park's nature center will come out to greet guests with animal educators.
Grady's Animal Discover Den is named for Pumpkin's predecessor. It's home to many small animals including reptiles and amphibians. Nearby is the Great Woodland Adventure trail, designed for kids of all ages with 12 Discovery Stations with locally-made sculptures that entertain and educate.
This event is included in park admission (and free to annual passholders). See our Chimney Rock Park Guide to plan a visit.
Greta the Groundhog, Pumpkin's predecessor, passed away in 2021.
Greta the groundhog received plenty of media attention in years past!