Grandfather Mountain, Nature on a Whole Different Level
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Natural Heritage

Conservation Programs

Grandfather Mountain is a Biosphere Reserve

Grandfather Mountain was recognized as an International Biosphere Reserve in November of 1992. The attraction is the only privately owned property in the program, which in November of 2004 included 459 biosphere reserves in 97 countries.

Grandfather Mountain is a microcosm of its larger region.

  • 16 distinct ecological communities in less than 5,000 acres
  • History of scientific study
  • In the spring of 2002 there were seven scientists performing studies at Grandfather.
  • Projects ranged from census studies of six different federally listed endangered species to an analysis of the soils found on Grandfather Mountain and an investigation into the nature of tree burls.
  • Habitat for 66 rare and endangered species
    • Twenty-five are critically imperiled globally because of extreme rarity.
  • Education and training
    • Offers interpretive programs for the general public and excels in offering environmental education for school children.
    • Grandfather also hosts educational programs and public forums on current environmental topics.

What is a Biosphere Reserve?

The purpose of the Man and Biosphere program is to foster harmonious relationships between human beings and their environment.

The mission of the Man and Biosphere program is to identify and share information on ways that man can enjoy economic prosperity without destroying the environment.

What a Biosphere Reserve IS NOT.

A Biosphere Reserve is not land controlled by the United Nations. Grandfather Mountain, Inc. makes its own decisions regarding the operation of its business and management of its resources without any input from the United Nations.

Criteria for selection as a Biosphere Reserve

  • each unit be a unique resource representative of a larger region
  • with a legally protected core area that is shielded from unbridled development
  • have a history of scientific study and be active in ecological research and monitoring
  • be active in the education and training of resource management professionals
  • be dedicated to consciousness raising among the general public.
  • be a gathering place for regional dialogue about current environmental and economic growth issues.

Fall Color ReportWhy Grandfather Mountain is such a colorful leaf-looking destinationInsider's Tips to Visiting Grandfather in OctoberPhotos, Virtual Tours & More…Get the Monthly NewsletterCurrent Weather Conditions
 
What People Say…

" I am a frequent visitor (20+ times a year with an annual pass). I always see something different. Great staff--especially the dining room people. I enjoy running "THE BEAR" "

Everett

Gastonia, NC

" I used to go the mountain as a child with my grandmother. It is a memory that I will never forget."

Cari

Savanah, GA

" I've been trying to get to your mountain since I was old enough to see ads for it on the TV as a child. I'm all grown up now, with a 3-year-old daughter of my own, and I'm pleased to report that both of us can now report that we've visited Grandfather Mountain. Both of us have a love of wild places, and yours certainly made an impression on us. We'll be back - often!"

Shannon

Union Hall, VA

" I love Grandfather Mountain. "

Brandon

Greenville, WI

" As close to God as you can get. Unforgettable and awe-inspiring. "

Brian & Amanda

Fort White, FL

" Beautiful park! Loved it. So clean and the animals were so healthy looking. I will definately return. "

Teri

Blowing Rock, NC

" I started visiting with my family as a kid, and have recently visited with my wife. I love it here. Anyone who is ever thinking about visiting or trying to find a place to go should! You will not be let down, there is a little for everyone to do. "

Gary

Fort Myers, FL

" Enjoyed our first trip to Granfather Mtn. - best Fall foliage this side of Massachusetts! Got great bear and eagle pictures - frameable. "

Bonnie

" We used to have family reunions in North Carolina and visited Grandfather Mountain. Although it's been many years since my last visit, the pictures on this site reminded me of what I have to get back! I remember the Swinging Bridge. And I remember taking a nature walk and wondering why everyone cared about the flowers. Now I know. "

Marilyn

Cincinnati, OH

" Just looked at the first "Escape to Grandfather Mountain" on my computer. Grandfather is one of my favorite places in all the world, and my wife & I first visited on our honeymoon in Aug. of 1959. Now I have health problems, and at age 70 I don't know when, or if, I'll ever return in person. But I "return" constantly now via my computer, and can relive the beautiful memories of actually being there. Thank you so very much for having this wonderful web site, and for the fantastic photos included. I wish I could be back "on top", but this is the next best thing. "

William

Greenville, SC