Grandfather Mountain, Nature on a Whole Different Level

PLanning Your Visit

Facilities & Amenities

Restrooms

There are restrooms available at

  • the Entrance gate where you enter
  • the picnic area located on the right 1/3 mile inside the park
  • the Nature Museum, half way up the Mountain
  • the Top Shop next to the Swinging Bridge

Elevator to Bridge

There is an elevator in the Top Shop providing handicap access to the Swinging Bridge.

Restaurant

Mildred's Grill is a 80-seat family restaurant located in the Nature Museum. The menu offers soup, salads, sandwiches and picnic items at reasonable prices. Orders will be packaged "to go" for those wishing to find a picnic table. A 40-seat section of the restaurant can be closed off for private dining.

Fudge Shop

The Fudge Shop is housed in an eco-friendly building located between the Nature Museum and the Animal Habitats. Watch fudge being made, sample the different flavors and take some home to a friend. In addition to fudge, the shop offers soft-serve ice cream, carmel apples, hot cider, coffee and soft drinks. We can also ship fresh fudge to the destination of your choice at any time of the year. Call 828-733-6518 for available flavors and pricing.

Top Shop

There are vending machines in the Top Shop next to the Swinging Bridge where guests can find drinks and snacks.

Wood Carver's Workshop

Tom Wolf is one of America's preeminent carvers of caricature figurines, and your family can watch him work when you visit his shop located next to the Woods Walk in the Grandfather Mountain picnic area. Stop in to hear his stories and to see his charming characters take shape. Tom is on site from 11 to 3 most days during the late spring, summer and fall --weather permitting. When you see his "woodcarver" sign hanging from the picnic area sign, you will know that Tom is welcoming visitors.

Picnic Tables & Grills

Over 100 picnic tables are scattered at pull off points and overlooks throughout the park. Most of the picnic spots have grills in addition to tables.

The picnic area located on the right about 1/3 mile up the summit road is equipped with a water fountain and restrooms.

ATM Available

The Automated Teller Machine is in the Nature Museum, half way up the Mountain.

Photos, Virtual Tours & More… Order Souvenirs, Fudge & More Get the Monthly Newsletter Tell Us About Your Experience Send an E-card to a Friend
 
What People Say…

" It was the first time for me to go to the mountains, so it was a awsome experiance! If you go it will be fun, but make sure to see the bears and otters. See the bridge -- AWSOME! Thanks for all your help to make my school trip a amazing trip!! "

Natascha

Westmoore Elementary School, NC