Daily Naturalist Programs

June 2- Aug 15

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

53rd Annual Grandfather Mountain Highland Games

July 10-13

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 10

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 11

The newest event at the Highland Games! The Grizzly is a beautiful and challenging route with 7000 feet of climbing in 65 miles.

828-263-5207

The Grandfather Mountain Marathon

July 12

Billed as "America's Toughest" marathon. Part of Highland Games. Admission charged.

828-263-5207

Grandfather Mountain Amateur & Professional Camera Clinic

Aug. 16-17

Top professionals from the world of news photography gather to share on the hot topics in photojournalism. Presenters include Mike Morones, Melissa Golden,Tim Kimzey and Sherry DiBari. Free to working press, additional cost for non-professionals. Seating is limited, so pre-registration is required. Online registration starts July 15th.

800-468-7325

Kidfest

Sept. 13

Guided hikes, games, storytellers, music and fun. Included with park admission.

800-468-7325

38th Annual American Girl Scout Day

Sept. 20

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. 21

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

Peak Beauty of Fall Foliage

Oct. 5-25

Fall color comes early to the peaks of Grandfather, so you don't have to wait until late in the month to see spectacular foliage.

Colors will be bright on the upper slopes from the 5th to the 10th. Color at Grandfather will peak between the 10th and 20th. At the end of the month, Grandfather becomes a great vantage point for looking down at color in the valleys. Click here for tips on visiting Grandfather in October.

800-468-7325

Naturalist Weekend

May 16-17

Joins us for two days filled with guided hikes and special presentations on the birds, wildflowers and nature of Grandfather Mountain. Included with regular admission.

828-733-4326

Nature Photography Weekend

May 29-31

Hear presentations from top nature photographers in the evenings and photograph spectacular scenery and native animals during the day. Additional cost.

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

First Saturday in June

Come help us maintain Grandfather's trails and let the backcountry rangers share their knowledge of and passion for Grandfather Mountain.

828-737-0833

85th Annual Singing On The Mountain

June 28
Always
the fourth
Sunday
in June

All-day gospel sing and fellowship held in MacRae Meadows. The Greenes are the host group and a dozen top gospel acts will perform. Free admission. Camping (without hookups) available on the field.

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.