Grandfather Mountain
Iconic Blue Ridge peak with a mile-high swinging bridge, challenging hikes, and stunning panoramic views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds
Grandfather Mountain
Best Time
Beat the crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Blue Ridge peak with a mile-high swinging bridge, challenging hikes, and stunning panoramic views.
"Truly one of the most breathtaking places I’ve ever been. The views were absolutely unreal!"
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Reserve your timed entry online in advance to secure your spot.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Essential for the challenging trails with ladders and rocks. Good grip is key!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mile High Swinging Bridge
Summit
Walk across this iconic bridge for 360-degree panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Feels like standing on top of the world!
Grandfather Trail
Summit to Calloway Peak
An exhilarating hike with ladders and cables bolted into rock faces. Not for the faint of heart, but incredibly rewarding.
Nature Museum & Wildlife Exhibits
Summit
Discover local wildlife, including bears and elk, and learn about the mountain's natural history. Included with admission.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timed Entry & Reservations
Hiking Difficulty & Preparation
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Reserve your timed entry online in advance to secure your spot.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Essential for the challenging trails with ladders and rocks. Good grip is key!
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Limited and pricey options on the mountain. Bring your own to save money.
⬆️ Check Weather Forecast
Mountain weather changes rapidly. Be prepared for cooler temps and wind.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Reserve your timed entry online in advance to secure your spot.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Essential for the challenging trails with ladders and rocks. Good grip is key!
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Limited and pricey options on the mountain. Bring your own to save money.
⬆️ Check Weather Forecast
Mountain weather changes rapidly. Be prepared for cooler temps and wind.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas are breathtaking. Don't forget your camera!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Grandfather Mountain for its breathtaking panoramic views from the Mile High Swinging Bridge and the exhilarating, albeit challenging, hiking trails. The well-organized nature exhibits and scenic drive also receive high marks, making it a memorable destination for nature lovers and families alike. Some find the admission fee steep and advise packing own food due to limited, pricey on-site options.
"It’s hard to describe just how much I enjoy this hike! I have lived in North Carolina for nine years, and have explored many of the popular hikes and mountains, yet grandfather remains my favorite. The hike to MacRae Peak is a gorgeous hike, which involves some cables and ladders. I would not recommend bringing young children, but if you are relatively active, it should be a moderate hike. The view on the top is absolutely breathtaking, you were able to see 360° of the Blue Ridge Mountains!
If hiking is not your thing, the mile high bridge is definitely a great alternative, there’s also a small zoo and gift shop."
Daniel Roley
"I visited Grandfather Mountain on July 4th and had an absolutely amazing experience. We started our drive from Cary, and it took about 3.5 hours to reach. The drive was smooth with hardly any traffic, and the mountain roads are narrow but very scenic and well-maintained.
One of the highlights is the Mile High Swinging Bridge – it’s small but truly feels like you’re standing on top of the world! The views are stunning, and the air is so fresh. There are staff and even young volunteers at the top guiding visitors and ensuring safety, which was impressive.
We also did a short 1-mile hiking trail, and the natural beauty all around was just breathtaking. You get to see lush greenery and wide forest landscapes—almost 5,000 acres of it!
A few tips:
• The ticket is $34 per person, which might feel a bit steep for families, so plan accordingly.
• Carry your own food and water – there are only limited snacks available, and they are priced high.
• Wear proper hiking shoes – the rocks can be tricky, and good grip is essential.
Overall, this is a well-organized, family-friendly destination that offers a truly memorable outdoor experience. Highly recommended!"
ajit sharma
"Grandfather Mountain is absolutely beautiful and a spectacular place to visit. We enjoyed a scenic drive up the mountain, which made the experience relaxing and enjoyable.
Once you reach the top, the views are simply stunning definitely worth the trip! It’s a perfect spot to connect with nature and take in the incredible mountain landscape. Highly recommended for families and nature lovers alike."
Christina Mendonca
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The main entrance address is 2050 Blowing Rock Rd, Linville, NC 28646. It's easily accessible via the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Driving time varies by starting location. From Cary, NC, it's about 3.5 hours. From Johnson City, TN, it's around 1 hour 15 minutes.
Yes, Grandfather Mountain is a prominent attraction accessible from the Blue Ridge Parkway, specifically near Milepost 305. +1
You can find detailed directions on the official Grandfather Mountain website, which also provides information on timed entry reservations.
Unfortunately, dogs are not permitted on the trails or within the park to protect the wildlife and natural habitat.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is typically around $28-$34 per adult, with prices potentially varying by season. It's best to check the official website for current pricing.
Yes, booking a timed entry reservation online in advance is highly recommended, and often required, to guarantee your visit.
Park hours typically run from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for entry, with trails closing at 5 p.m. and the park closing at 6 p.m. Always check the website for the most up-to-date hours.
While it might be possible on slower days, it's strongly advised to book online in advance as entry is limited and reservations are prioritized.
The Mile High Swinging Bridge is included with your general admission ticket to Grandfather Mountain.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Grandfather Trail is famous for its challenging sections with ladders and cables. For a less intense but still scenic hike, consider the Profile Trail.
The Grandfather Trail is considered one of the most challenging and potentially dangerous hikes in North Carolina due to its steep, rocky terrain and exposed ladders. It's recommended for experienced hikers.
At the summit, you'll find the Mile High Swinging Bridge, stunning panoramic views, a nature museum, and wildlife exhibits.
Yes, there are designated picnic areas available for visitors to enjoy their meals amidst the beautiful mountain scenery.
While the Mile High Swinging Bridge and Nature Museum are family-friendly, the more challenging hiking trails are not recommended for very young children due to safety concerns.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are limited snack options available on the mountain, but no full-service restaurants. It's recommended to bring your own food.
Yes, bringing your own food and water is highly encouraged, as on-site options are scarce and can be expensive.
Nearby towns like Boone and Blowing Rock offer a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to more upscale restaurants.
📸 📸 Photography
The Mile High Swinging Bridge offers incredible panoramic shots. The summit overlooks and various points along the hiking trails also provide stunning photographic opportunities.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and beautiful golden hour hues.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national parks and protected areas like Grandfather Mountain to ensure safety and preserve the natural environment. Check park regulations.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A sturdy tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions or long exposures.
Fall is spectacular for photography with vibrant foliage. The overlooks and scenic drives offer prime spots to capture the autumn colors. 
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing a picnic to enjoy in one of the scenic areas, as food options on the mountain are limited and can be expensive. Ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes, even if you're not planning a strenuous hike, as there's still plenty of walking to do around the summit attractions.
⛰️ Avid Hikers & Thrill-Seekers
Be prepared for a hard-rated trail that requires good physical condition and a comfort with heights. Research the route beforehand, wear your most reliable hiking boots, and pack plenty of water and energy-boosting snacks. Tackling this trail midweek can offer a more solitary and intense experience.
📸 Photographers & Scenery Lovers
Beyond the bridge, explore various scenic overlooks along the drive up and consider hiking shorter trails for unique perspectives. Fall is an exceptional time for photographers, with the mountains ablaze in autumn colors. Remember to bring a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the landscape.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thrill of the Grandfather Trail
+1This trail is not for the faint of heart or novice hikers. Those with a fear of heights may find it particularly challenging. However, for those who are comfortable with heights and have prior hiking experience, the rewarding panoramic views from the summits are absolutely spectacular. It's a bucket-list hike for many, providing an adrenaline rush and a profound sense of accomplishment.
When planning to tackle the Grandfather Trail, it's crucial to wear appropriate footwear with excellent grip and to carry plenty of water and snacks. Midweek visits are often recommended to avoid the largest crowds and allow for a more immersive experience. Always check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions can change rapidly at higher elevations.
Experiencing Grandfather Mountain Beyond the Hike
For those interested in learning about the local environment, the Nature Museum and Wildlife Exhibits are excellent. Here, you can see native animals like bears and elk up close and learn fascinating facts about the mountain's ecosystem and history. This makes Grandfather Mountain a great destination for families and nature enthusiasts alike.
Beyond the main attractions, the mountain boasts numerous scenic overlooks and picnic areas, perfect for a relaxing day surrounded by nature. The drive up the mountain itself is also incredibly scenic, with winding roads offering glimpses of the stunning Appalachian landscape.
Planning Your Visit: Tickets, Timing, and Tips
When it comes to timing, visiting midweek and earlier in the day can help you avoid the largest crowds, allowing for a more peaceful experience, particularly on popular trails like the Grandfather Trail. Fall is a particularly beautiful time to visit due to the vibrant foliage, but it also tends to be busier.
+1Practical tips include wearing sturdy hiking shoes with good grip, as the trails can be rocky and steep. Always carry sufficient water and snacks, as on-mountain options are limited and can be pricey. Checking the weather forecast is also crucial, as mountain weather can change rapidly.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit