What is Grandfather Mountain?

Grandfather Mountain is:

• a scenic travel attraction
• a globally recognized nature preserve
• and one of the highest peaks in the Blue Ridge mountains (elv. 5946 feet)

The Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation is:

• a not-for-profit corporation established to
  • preserve Grandfather Mountain
  • operate the nature park in the public interest
  • participate in educational and research activities

One ticket price includes everything:

Guests purchase tickets (one ticket per person) and drive their own vehicles through the park, stopping along the way to enjoy a variety of activities. All proceeds from sales of tickets and souvenirs go toward caring for and presenting Grandfather Mountain in a manner that inspires good stewardship in others.

Main Attractions

• Beautiful mountain scenery
• Mile High Swinging Bridge
• Environmental Habitats for native wildlife
  • Black Bears, River Otters, Cougars, Deer and a Golden Eagle
• Nature Museum
  • excellent exhibits about the natural history of the region
  • theater that shows nature movies made on the Mountain
  • restaurant and gift shop
  • fudge shop makes fudge daily
• South’s best alpine hiking trails
  • More than 12 miles of regularly maintained trails ranging in difficulty from easy nature walks to strenuous backcountry challenges.
• Picnicking
  • Over 100 picnic tables and grills are scattered throughout the park. The picnic area located on the right about 1/3 mile up the summit road is equipped with a water fountain and restrooms.
  • Guests are welcome to bring their own picnic. Those who have not planned ahead can purchase fried chicken or sandwiches to go from the Museum restaurant.
• Naturalist Programs
  • Special activities and programs with the Mountain’s naturalists are presented daily during the summer months and are included in the price of admission.
  • Guided tours and guided hikes with the Mountain’s naturalists are available for an additional fee. Phone 828-733-4326 for reservations.