Grandfather Mountain, Nature on a Whole Different Level

Nature Walks & Hiking Trails

Trails are open, caution is advised.

Grandfather Mountain State Park backcountry trails are open, however, there are still many trees down and there is a significant amount of snow and ice on the trails. Please use caution when hiking the trails keeping in mind that there may be overhead hazards from hanging tree limbs as well as hazards on the trail. Please dress appropriately for the weather and complete a permit which is available at the trailhead of the Profile Trail and on the Tanawha Trail just past Boone Fork.

Nature Walks - Trail Descriptions

The Woods Walk

Circumscribing the attraction's picnic area on the lower slopes of the mountain, the Woods Walk offers visitors a leisurely 4/10 mile loop through mature Appalachian forest. The trailhead is located in the picnic area (first right after you enter the Gate).

With very gradual grades and wide paths, this path will appeal to guests who are looking for a casual encounter with nature. At least 64 different flower and plant species grow at trailside, as well as 19 tree types.

woods walk

The Black Rock Nature Trail

This self-guided nature trail begins at the Hiker's Parking Area (three curves below the summit) and slopes out gradually to a wide angle view of the Swinging Bridge, MacRae and Attic Window Peaks, as well as Beacon Heights and Grandmother Mountain to the southwest.

The gradual, moderately rocky trail runs out a mile through northern hardwood and spruce forests and, most any time of year, through neighborhoods of songbirds. Pick up a guide at the trailhead that describes 20 natural features found along the way. Allow 2 hours round trip.

bridge trailThe Bridge Trail

The Bridge Trail also begins at Hiker's Parking Area and moves quickly into a natural area where visitors can walk through red and white rhododendron, galax, red spruce, Fraser fir, and yellow birch. Four-tenths of a mile in length, the trail switchbacks up the mountain, traveling under the Swinging Bridge before ending at the Visitor Center. You'll be awed by the massive rock outcroppings on this trail. Allow 20 minutes each way.

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What People Say…

"When I went to Grandfather Mountain we went and looked at all the animals and the Swinging Bridge. But the most fun I had was when I hiked on the trail. It was so fun with the ladders and ropes. It was the best trip I have ever been on! "

Andrea

Asheboro, NC