Is the bridge at Grandfather Mountain Open?
Hours & Tickets Grandfather Mountain is open all year, weather permitting, with the exception of Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. It often closes in the winter due to snow or high winds. Hours are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. spring and fall, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. summer, and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in winter.
Can you hike into Grandfather Mountain for free?
HIKING IS FREE ON GRANDFATHER STATE PARK TRAILS The back country of Grandfather Mountain is now Grandfather Mountain State Park. There is no charge to access Grandfather Mountain State Park from trail heads outside the travel attraction, but registration is required for safety reasons.
How difficult is the hike to Grandfather Mountain?
Grandfather Trail: This 2.4-mile challenging trek is for experienced hikers, since there are areas of rocky cliffs where progress is hand-over-hand, with cables and ladders.
What did Grandfather Mountain used to be?
Tanawha
The original Cherokee name for the mountain was “Tanawha,” meaning “a fabulous hawk or eagle.” It was named “Grandfather” by pioneers who recognized the face of an old man in one of the cliffs.
What is the history of Grandfather Mountain?
In the late nineteenth century, Grandfather Mountain was acquired by Donald MacRae of Wilmington, who purchased the mountain and a large tract of land in the area from the descendants of Gen. William Lenoir (the Revolutionary War leader for whom the Caldwell County town of Lenoir is named).
How do I get across the Swinging Bridge at Grandfather Mountain?
Walking across the Mile High Swinging Bridge is included in your Grandfather Mountain admission ticket that includes many other things to do in our nature park. Buy tickets online and book a reservation time to enter the park.
What is Grandfather Mountain known for?
Welcome to Grandfather Mountain! Our nature park is home to amazing biodiversity and scenic beauty in an International Biosphere Reserve. From the Mile-High Swinging Bridge to wildlife habitats and hiking with spectacular views, find plenty to explore. See more.
How big is the Grandfather Mountain Bridge?
The 228-foot suspension bridge spans an 80-foot chasm at more than one mile in elevation. Surveys show that the journey to the other side is always considered the highlight of a trip to Grandfather Mountain.
Where is the trailhead to Grandfather Mountain?
Trailheads to many of the Grandfather Mountain hiking trails are located near the Swinging Bridge. In fact, the 0.4 mile Bridge Trail takes you beneath the bridge, starting from the Black Rock parking area just below the summit. For details on our nearby trails, go to our Hiking Guide.