Everything You Need To Know Before Visiting Grandfather Mountain In NC

Did you know that “Grandfather Mountain” is deemed the Number 1 Scenic Attraction in North Carolina?! Well, if you didn’t – you’ll quickly learn why it earned that name. There is so much to see and do in this park and it’s fun for all ages!

Below, I’m sharing everything you need to know before visiting Grandfather Mountain in NC – including best tips, things to do, and more!

About Grandfather Mountain

Grandfather Mountain is located in Northwestern North Carolina – just south of Boone, NC. This mountain area is actually quite large and located a mile above sea level! Only about one third of the mountain is part of the scenic attraction that is operated by Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation, Inc. The rest of the mountain is owned by the state of North Carolina and is relatively undeveloped.

To visit the scenic attraction, you’ll need to schedule a time and date as well as pay admission. The admission price is a bit hefty (ranging from $15 to $28 per adult), but you’ll quickly realize it was worth every dollar!

I was hesitant about visiting because I wasn’t sure if there was much to do – but wow – you can easily spend the entire day exploring Grandfather Mountain! Below I’m going to share the wide variety of things to do at Grandfather Mountain!

Things To Do at Grandfather Mountain

1. Mile High Swinging Bridge

The Mile High Swinging Bridge is the number one attraction here at Grandfather Mountain! It was built in 1952 to give visitors access to the breathtaking panoramic views from! Grandfather Mountain’s Linville Peak. The bridge stretches over 228 feet and gives you amazing views at the surrounding mountains and lakes.

This name can be a bit misleading though. It is in fact one mile high, but the name is true to sea level. When actually standing on the bridge, the valley below is only about 80 feet down. In addition to that, it doesn’t really “swing” anymore. Engineers rebuilt the bridge in the 90s for safety, and it is now secured in place. On a really windy day, you may feel a bit of a swinging sensation, but otherwise, you won’t notice it at all!

WWL Tip: This is the number one thing to do, so it can get very crowded here. Arrive early to beat the crowds!

2. Hiking to MacRae’s Peak

There are LOTS of different trails within the Grandfather Mountain attraction. However, the most popular is Macrae’s Peak because it is a challenging, unique, and rewarding hike! This hike features many wooden ladders as well as a few rope pulleys to assist in the steep climb. Once at the top, you are rewarded with a stunning view of the Great Smoky Mountains.

This hike is not suited for those who are scared of heights. When we were hiking, a family of 3 was really struggling on the ladders and needed help getting down because they were so scared of the heights.

This hike also leads into a much longer trail, so there is no true “end” – most turn around after finishing the 6th ladder climb!

3. Animal Habitat

Grandfather Mountain is home to a large variety of wild animals! However, it’s also home to some not-so-wild animals! These animals have been rescued and now live in the Animal Habitat here at Grandfather Mountain. You’ll find bears, cougars, otters, bald eagles, elk, and more! Be sure to check out the Animal Habitat during your visit.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Grandfather Mountain (@grandfathermtn)

WWL TIP: They feed the animals treats on the hour and half hour (ie 1pm and 1:30pm) so try to time it perfectly to see the animals up close!

4. Driving Tour

One of the things included in your park admission is a CD that you can listen to as you drive through the park! It’s actually super interesting and really informative. We loved driving around and listening to the fun facts about the sites we were seeing. In fact, we had no idea that a part of Forrest Gump was filmed here, until we listened to the CD!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Grandfather Mountain (@grandfathermtn)

5. Fudge Shop

Yes, you read that right – Grandfather Mountain has their very own fudge shop! YUM! The “Grandfather Mountain Fudge Shop” offers freshly made treats. You can sample some of their flavors like pumpkin pie or peppermint candy or go for the classics like chocolate and cookies-and-cream!

If you’re visiting in the winter, the Fudge Shop is closed – BUT, the restaurant still serves the freshly made fudge! 🙂

6. Nature Museum

Don’t skip out on the Nature Museum – there are over 2 dozen unique nature exhibits that are both educational and interesting! Furthermore, there is a theatre here that shows videos about Grandfather Mountain. The movies can be as long as 30 minutes, so plan accordingly!

7. Pack a Picnic OR Eat in their restaurant

The views here are stunning so I’d advise spending as much time as possible soaking your surroundings! A great way to do this is to pack a picnic! There are several picnic spots throughout the park that offer stunning views … and by several, I mean over 100 locations!

If you forgot to pack a picnic, there is an onsite café named Mildred’s Grill. It serves soup, salads, burgers, sandwiches, wraps, chicken tenders, fries and more, including vegetarian options. However, this café is small so it can get very busy around lunchtime.

Things To Know Before You Go

• This mountain is 1 mile above sea level, so it can get very chilly and windy at the top. Bring an extra jacket with you just in case!
• Arrive early – there is a lot to do in the park and you’ll want to have time to explore without being rushed.
• Pack snacks and plenty of water if you plan on hiking the trails.
• Don’t expect to hike into the evening hours… you must be done hiking by 5PM (and I mean, at your car by 5PM otherwise the park rangers will begin a rescue search for you).

How To Get to Grandfather Mountain

Grandfather Mountain is located in Northwestern North Carolina. Driving distances from major cities are listed below:

• Boone, NC…………18 miles (30 minutes)
• Charlotte, NC……105 miles (2 hours)
• Greenville, SC……130 miles (2 hours and 15 minutes)
• Knoxville, TN…….155 miles (2 hours and 30 mins)
• Roanoke, VA……..185 miles (3 hours)
• Raleigh, NC……….205 miles (3 hours and 30 minutes)

Be mindful when typing Grandfather Mountain into your GPS, as it may take you to the mountain range instead of the specific attraction. Use this address to ensure you arrive at the front entrance of the Grandfather Mountain scenic attraction: 2050 Blowing Rock Hwy, Linville, NC 28646

---

Save this post for later on Pinterest: Guide to Visiting Grandfather Mountain In NC

---

Looking for more things to do in North Carolina? Check out my blog posts below:

ASHEBORO:
Getaway House: Tiny House Cabin in the Woods

BRYSON CITY:
15 Things to Do in Bryson City, NC
Treehouse Cabana Soaking Tub Experience

CHARLOTTE:
Charlotte, NC City Guide
Best Wall Murals in South End (Charlotte, NC)
Free Things to do in Charlotte, NC
Top 10 Breweries in Charlotte
Road Trips from Charlotte, NC

WILMINGTON:
Self Guided One Tree Hill Tour