Grandfather Mountain: Home to the Mile High Swinging Bridge
Located in the beautiful Blue Ridge mountain range in Western North Carolina lies the highest peak on the eastern escarpment of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Grandfather Mountain’s Calloway, sits high at an elevation of 5946 feet. The mountain is conveniently located nearby Boone and Blowing Rock, 2 popular cabin vacation hot spots. Also, it is fairly close to Asheville, a vacation destination in and of itself. I lived in the Asheville region for several years and Grandfather was one of many wonderful Blue Ridge Parkway attractions I enjoyed easy access to. This wonderful park is open year-round, depending on the weather. I recommend several trips as each changing season brings forth a new natural setting to enjoy.
The drive up Grandfather Mountain
Visitors are able to drive up the mountain and enjoy incredible views while listening to an informative audio CD (which you will receive when you purchase your entry ticket). The ride up the mountain is an experience in and of itself with amazing views everywhere you look. Overlooks along the way allow you to get out, enjoy the views, and take a few photos. The drive to the summit is about 2 miles long.
Split and Sphinx Rock is one interesting sight along the way. Estimates put these rocks at 640+ million years old!
Grandfather Mountain is a diverse place, with over 16 different natural communities represented. The mountain is home to many endangered plant and animal species. See the full list of the many endangered plant and animal species which call Grandfather home.
Mountain Attractions
Mile High Swinging Bridge
As you walk across this 228 foot tall, mile high bridge, breathtaking mountain views surround you in every direction. It happens to be the highest suspension bridge in the US. Be sure to plan your visit on a non foggy day as you will be able to see much more if you do so. The bridge walk is a bit scary as it wobbles a bit to the side, however, don’t let that stop you from taking the journey across!
Beyond the bridge, more amazing views await. Be careful, the climb is a bit steep and can be slippery if you don’t have the proper shoes! Those afraid of heights should not attempt the climb! Simply enjoy the views from the bridge.
There are plenty of fantastic photo opportunities which will vary based on the season you decide to visit. Fall offers views of colorful foliage, summers are green, and winter offers a barren and often snow-filled landscape.
This year, the bridge was lit up in solar lights for the holidays. Hopefully, this unique opportunity becomes an annual holiday tradition.
Keep in mind that it is typically about 10 degrees cooler at the top of the mountain due to the high elevation, so be sure to dress accordingly!
Wildlife Habitat
Grandfather features 7 animal habitats that mimic actual conditions found in the wild. Here you will be able to see bears, cougars, white tail deer, bald eagles, and river otters. The animals are housed in very nice settings, unlike many of the cramped enclosures you often find at a zoo.
Nature Museum
The Nature Museum includes over 20 different exhibits to browse through including a collection of North Carolina gems. Did you know that North Carolina is known to be the gem capital of the world?
You will also find displays detailing the various wildlife that make Grandfather home. Here you can read interesting facts about the animals you may possibly encounter during your visit. In addition, you will find wax models of various mountain plants on display by the late artist Paul Marchand. He was known as best in the world for creating realistic looking wax plants.
If you get hungry, you can visit Mildred’s Grill for a small bite. The attractive rustic decor provides a relaxing setting that compliments your visit perfectly.
The gift shop offers a lot of great North Carolina mountain themed decor and souvenirs. You will also find plenty of great holiday gift ideas! Rustic mugs, hiking sticks, art…the list goes on!
Hiking Trails
Grandfather Mountain is home to 11 trails, varying in intensity from beginner to advanced. Several short trails enable you to get lost in nature for a bit without a lengthy time commitment. Those wishing to see the back country can plan at least half a day for one of the more rigorous hikes. These hikes are very challenging and only suited for the advanced hiker. These trails may require you to use ladders and cables to climb cliffs. For those up for an extreme challenge, you will be rewarded with great views.
The Bridge Trail (pictured below) is a moderate half mile nature trail, suitable for most hikers. A short steep climb is required, nothing too challenging. It will lead you all the way up to the visitor’s center, where you then can take an elevator to the swinging bridge. Some cool rocky outcroppings on this trail and lots of wildlife to see. Note – you will see the hiking parking lot as you make your way up the mountain.
This Grandfather Mountain trail map will help you find a suitable trail based on your current activity level and personal preference. In addition, guided hikes are available for those looking to explore with an knowledgeable ranger. Sometimes, a guided hike is the best way to go, especially if you are new to hiking or want to learn more about the area’s ecosystems.
A trip to Grandfather Mountain is an absolute must if you are visiting or passing through the high country region of Western North Carolina. The beautiful hiking trails, fantastic animal habitats, and panoramic views from the swinging bridge make this attractive a worthy addition to your bucket list!
Location & Pricing
The mountain is located a mile off the beautiful Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 305. GPS address: 2050 Blowing Rock Highway, Linville, NC 28646. The GPS coordinates are 36.08502N, -81.84646W.
Admission is $25 (Senior $23, kids $10) per person. This ticket includes admission to the nature museum, a documentary film, animal habitats, the swinging bridge, and the hiking trails. Prices are current as of 2024. Please check the website for updates.
Also be sure to check out my guide to the best Blue Ridge Parkway attractions in North Carolina.
