Grandfather Mountain Tours

Grandfather Mountain which includes mountains as well as an individual male
Grandfather Mountain showing cuddly or friendly animals and a suspension bridge or treetop walkway as well as a couple
Grandfather Mountain showing mountains and forests
Grandfather Mountain featuring tranquil scenes and a bridge as well as a couple
Grandfather Mountain which includes a suspension bridge or treetop walkway


Walk the Mile High Swinging Bridge, hike along one of the many trails and visit the nature museum at this remarkable mountain near Linville, North Carolina. 

Grandfather Mountain is a non-profit attraction and a North Carolina state park. Tread the Mile High Swinging Bridge, America’s highest suspension footbridge. This engineering masterpiece gives visitors a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view from the mountain’s Linville Peak.

Hike along one of 11 trails available at Grandfather Mountain. Stroll casually through the woods or take on a more rigorous trek with a difficult peak trail. Book a guided hike with an interpretive ranger, who will help you experience the backcountry in a whole new way. Call the interpretive ranger office to arrange a unique and educational hiking experience.

Discover cougars, black bears, white-tailed deer, bald eagles and river otters at Grandfather Mountain’s seven environmental habitats. Unlike city zoos, these large enclosures allow visitors to view the animals in their natural settings. Cougars, for example, no longer live in the wild on Grandfather Mountain. Experience the undisturbed wildlife from elevated platforms above the habitats.

Visit the Grandfather Mountain Nature Museum, where you’ll find over two dozen interesting exhibits. These displays are intended to educate visitors on the natural history of the mountain and its surrounding areas. Exhibits include a stunning collection of North Carolina gems and minerals, birdlife and Native American artifacts. Find information on early explorers to visit the mountain, including Andre Michaux, Daniel Boone and Asa Gra.

Hike from a trailhead outside the attraction and access trails within the Grandfather Mountain State Park for free. Weather permitting, Grandfather Mountain is open year-round excluding Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Admission price covers visits to the main attractions including the Mile High Swinging Bridge.

After exploring the trails, habitats and exhibits, stop at the Fudge Shop for freshly made delicious treats or dine al fresco with lunch options from Mildred’s Grill. Camp in the Grandfather Mountain Campground or rent a cabin and discover some of the many recreational activities available.

Grandfather Mountain is about 70 miles (110 kilometers) from Asheville. On a very clear day you may be able to see the high-rises of Charlotte over 80 miles (130 kilometers) away. Enjoy a drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway in the area.

Reviews of Grandfather Mountain

4.6
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
179
5 - Excellent 70%
4 - Good
62
4 - Good 24%
3 - Okay
11
3 - Okay 4%
2 - Disappointing
1
2 - Disappointing 0%
1 - Terrible
1
1 - Terrible 0%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Go earlier in the day if it’s a nice day. They have limited parking for the bridge and we had to wait about 45 minutes. They have other stuff to do so make a part day trip and pack a lunch

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveler

DID NOT GO!

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

arrive early

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Things to do near Grandfather Mountain

At Grandfather Mountain in Linville, North Carolina, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including hiking along scenic trails, golfing, and skiing at nearby resorts. Wildlife enthusiasts will love the chance to observe local fauna, while those seeking entertainment can catch live performances. Whether you're exploring the great outdoors or enjoying recreational opportunities, Grandfather Mountain offers a memorable experience for all adventurers.

Shopping

During your visit to Grandfather Mountain, check out Boone Mall, located 19.3km away, offering a mix of entertainment and family-friendly vibes. If you're up for a drive, head to Bakersville Main Street Market 30.6km away or Lenoir Business Center, 33.8km away, both featuring local charm and variety.

Recreation

Experience the scenic Grandfather Golf and Country Club, where you can enjoy a round of golf surrounded by nature. For relaxation, visit Julian Price Park, offering peaceful trails and serene picnic spots. Catch an exciting game at Kidd Brewer Stadium to immerse yourself in local sports culture.

Adventure

Sugar Mountain Resort offers thrilling skiing experiences with vibrant sports vibes, located 4.8km from Grandfather Mountain. For hiking enthusiasts, Yancey Ridge presents stunning outdoor scenery on its trail, also 4.8km away. Enjoy family-friendly fun at Jonas Ridge Snow Tubing, which is 14.5km from Grandfather Mountain.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near Grandfather Mountain. Catch a captivating performance at Horn in the West, just 19.3km away, or enjoy a family movie at Regal Boone, 20.9km away. For a cultural touch, visit the COMMA Performing Arts Center, located 41.8km away, showcasing romance and entertainment.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Grandfather Mountain

For an unforgettable vacation at Grandfather Mountain in Linville, North Carolina, explore the stunning Grandfather Mountain State Park, where outdoor adventures abound. Enjoy breathtaking views, hiking trails, and the unique wildlife of the North Carolina mountains. Don't miss the chance to visit local urban parks and nearby modern colleges, which offer cultural experiences and a taste of local life. Whether seeking adventure or relaxation, Grandfather Mountain has something for every traveler.

  • Land of Oz: Experience the enchanting Land of Oz, a whimsical event venue nestled 11.3km from Grandfather Mountain. This unique destination offers a blend of fantasy and business vibes, making it perfect for both events and leisurely exploration of its magical atmosphere.
  • Appalachian State University: Located 19.3km away, Appalachian State University boasts a vibrant campus with modern architecture and city vibes. Immerse yourself in the lively student culture, art galleries, and beautiful outdoor spaces that make this university a hub of creativity and learning.
  • Tweetsie Railroad: Just 17.7km from Grandfather Mountain, Tweetsie Railroad is a delightful theme park perfect for families. With entertaining rides, live shows, and a Wild West atmosphere, it guarantees a fun-filled day for visitors of all ages.

Best time to go to Grandfather Mountain

The best time to visit Grandfather Mountain is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January30.6°F (-0.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
February34.7°F (1.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
March41.2°F (5.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
April49.6°F (9.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
May57.7°F (14.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June64.9°F (18.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly Low
July68.0°F (20.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
August66.6°F (19.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September61.9°F (16.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
October52.2°F (11.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
November41.7°F (5.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December36.1°F (2.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Grandfather Mountain

To save money on your trip to Grandfather Mountain, plan your visit during the cheaper months of March to April or June, avoiding the more expensive September to October and December. Tuesday is the most affordable day to book your stay, while Saturday tends to be pricier. Utilize Expedia to find budget-friendly accommodation by sorting results from lowest to highest price. Consider booking a package that combines your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Lastly, look for free activities in the area to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Grandfather Mountain are March to April and June, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to September to October and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Grandfather Mountain is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Grandfather Mountain is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your options based on your budget, preferred location, and desired hotel type. To find the best prices and deals, be sure to sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Grandfather Mountain with your flights and activities when you book through an Expedia package.

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