Grandfather Mountain, Nature on a Whole Different Level

Behind the Scenes Tour

behind the scenesDo you ever wonder what happens beyond the overlooks of the Animal Habitats? Come see for yourself in our educational Behind the Scenes tour.

You will get to see where the cougars and otters sleep overnight, meet black bears that are not commonly on display, learn the ins and outs of what it takes to care for the animals year-round, observe a training session and learn about why the animals call Grandfather Mountain home. Our knowledgeable and experienced keepers will gladly answer any questions as they guide you on your tour.

Each Behind the Scenes tour takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

REQUIREMENTS:

Minimum of two persons per session, maximum of six. There is no minimum age limit, but small children must be carried if they are not capable of walking on their own. Strollers are not an option. Participants in the behind the scenes tours must:

  • be capable of walking up and down steep, rough terrain
  • sign a waiver of liability

RESTRICTIONS:

  • no wheelchairs or strollers
  • no pets

WHAT TO WEAR:

Closed-toed hiking or work boots or tennis shoes are required. It is recommended that you dress in layers and be prepared for any weather condition. We recommend that you have coats, jackets and rain gear in your vehicle.

WEATHER:

Behind the Scenes Tours will continue on schedule regardless of weather conditions. Tours will only be cancelled due to thunder and/or lightning. In the event of a cancellation, the tour can be rescheduled or refunded.

The weather on Grandfather Mountain can change at a moment's notice. Temperatures are commonly 5 to 10 degrees colder than what they are at the bottom of the Mountain in Linville.

PRICE:

The cost is $30 per participant ($25 each for annual pass holders). Admission to the park is purchased separately ($15 adult/$7 child 4-12). Sign up for Behind the Scenes tours upon arrival at the Nature Museum. To insure there is space available when you plan to visit, email habitats@grandfather.com. Allow 24 hours for a response.

WHEN OFFERED:

Day Time Number
Weekends    
Saturday 10:30 to 12 pm
1 to 2:30 pm		 min. 2 people, max.6
Sunday 1 to 2:30 pm min. 2 people, max.6
Labor Day Weekend    
Friday, Saturday, Sunday & Monday 10:30 to 12 pm
1 to 2:30 pm		 min. 2 people, max.6

 
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What People Say…

" Both my son and I felt this was the best experience we had while in the NC mountains. The bears were fantastic and all the animals were amazing. The natural enclosures make it seem like you are actually witnessing them in the wild. The ability to roam about the rocks and trails gives a huge sense of freedom. We originally headed down there for gem mountain but if we can ever return, it will be for your mountain!"

Scott

New Jersy