Grandfather Mountain NC

I feel so very blessed to be a native North Carolinian !! I have lived at the foot of the Blue Rige Mountains most of my life and Grandfather Mountain has been kind of a "fixture" to me..

When traveling to Beech Mountain from Hickory NC via "curvy" NC 181 or up Hwy 321 ~ ~ ~ through Blowing Rock, I am able to view "Grandfather" on opposite sides of his profile....

Over the years, I have witnessed Grandfather clothed in frozen snow capped splendor, arrayed in beautiful golden fall foilage or ablaze with rhododendrum's purple majesty.. Grandfather Mountain is like an old friend....

It's been many, many years since I have walked across Grandfather's Mile High Swinging Bridge or visited the Black Bear Habitat but maybe....... this summer. I hope you will visit this glorious natural wonder ... Check out all these great Grandfather Mtn Events...

Daily Naturalist Programs

June - Aug
Grandfather Mountain naturalists present a special nature program each day during the summer. The one-hour programs are scheduled for 1:00 p.m. and are included in the price of admission.
800-468-7325

The Remarkable Rhododendron Ramble
June 1-14
Our staff naturalists can't wait to share their excitement for the showy rose-lavender Catawba Rhododendron that blooms its way up Grandfather’s slopes throughout the month of June. Join us for special activities designed to help you get the most out of this memorable sight.
800-468-7325

National Trails Day Volunteer Project
June 6
Come help us maintain Grandfather's trails and let the backcountry rangers share their knowledge of and passion for Grandfather Mountain. Free admission for volunteers.
828-737-0833

85th Annual Singing On The Mountain
June 28Alwaysthe fourth Sunday in June
All-day gospel sing and fellowship held in MacRae Meadows. Host group The Greenes welcome The Primitive, The Cockman Family, The Melodyaires, Jubilee, Four Anointed, The Gospel Enforcers, Michael Combs, Naomi & The Segos, and George Hamilton IV with George Hamilton V and Tim & Roddy Smith. The Rev. Freida Hartley Hobson will bring the message. Free admission. Camping (without hookups) available on the field.
800-468-7325

54th Annual Grandfather Mountain Highland Games
July 9-12
Brawny athletes, delicate dancers, noisy bagpipe band parades, rocking Celtic music and a spectacular highland setting makes this colorful celebration of Scottish culture the best highland games in America. Admission charged.
828-733-1333

The Bear: Assault on Grandfather
July 9
A five-mile road race that climbs 1,568 feet in elevation from Linville to the summit of Grandfather Mountain. Part of Highland Games. Admission charged.
828-263-5207

The Grizzly Bike Ride
July 10
The Grizzly is a beautiful and challenging route with 7000 feet of climbing in 65 miles. Part of Highland Games. Admission charged.
828-263-5207

The Grandfather Mountain Marathon
July 11
Billed as "America's Toughest" marathon. Part of Highland Games. Admission charged.
828-263-5207

Grandfather Mountain Amateur & Professional Camera Clinic
Aug. 15-16
Top photographers gather to share on the nuts & bolts of making good photographs. 2009 speakers include Bill Fortney, John Chastain, Duane Hall and Melissa Southern. Free to working press, additional cost for non-professionals. Seating is limited, so pre-registration is required. Online registration begins July 15.
800-468-7325
Rods in the Park Classic Car, Truck & Vintage Bike Show
Aug. 2009
Over 45 classes from Antique pre-30's through 1989 cars, trucks, vintage bikes and road tractors. MacRae Meadows. Admission charged. Call 828-963-2723 with questions or to register.
828-963-2723 Email for more information.

Kidfest Sept. 12
Guided hikes, games, storytellers, music and fun. Included with park admission.
800-468-7325

39th Annual American Girl Scout Day
Sept. 19
All Girl Scouts and troop leaders are admitted free with proof of membership. Discount admission for other family members. Staff naturalists provide free nature programs throughout the day.
800-468-7325

Bridge-To-Bridge Incredible Challenge Bike Ride
Sept. 20
This 102-mile bike ride departs the Lenoir Mall and makes its way uphill to the Mile High Swinging Bridge. Registration fee.
828-726-0616

Find out more info on Grandfather Mountain