Things to Do

Welcome to Grandfather Mountain! Our nature park is home to amazing biodiversity and scenic beauty. From the Mile-High Swinging Bridge to wildlife habitats, hands-on exhibits and spectacular hiking, find plenty to explore. See our many things to see and do.

Daily Programs

Attend one of our fascinating interpretive programs in April-October presented by our animal habitat curators and educators throughout the park. All are included with your admission. See a full list of programs.

2023 Events

See our lineup of events for the year – ranging from after-hours programming, to all-day field courses for a deep dive into nature, to our Grandfather Glows firefly viewings. Many are included in your admission. Go to our calendar.

Education

Learn from the mountain! See our many educational offerings, both on and off the mountain, for all ages. Includes “Classroom in the Clouds” field trips for schools, mobile programs and a variety of special field courses and classes for adults. Read more.

Plan Your Visit

Make the most out of your time with us! Get all the details to plan the perfect trip. See our hours, dining options, driving directions, weather forecast, accessibility options, souvenir shopping, trail maps and more! Start planning.

Join the Team

Are you looking for a “top of the world” place to work? Join our team! We are now hiring for the 2023 season with a big variety of fun opportunities. See our mile-high perks and current openings.

Things to Do

Welcome to Grandfather Mountain! Our nature park is home to amazing biodiversity and scenic beauty in an International Biosphere Reserve. From the Mile-High Swinging Bridge to wildlife habitats and hiking with spectacular views, find plenty to explore. See more.

Reservations Required

With the exception of Bridge Club members and passholders, guests are now required to purchase their tickets in advance by booking their visit online. To reserve a time, please click here.

Plan Your Visit

Make the most out of your time with us! Get all the details to plan the perfect trip. See our hours, dining options, driving directions, weather forecast, accessibility options, souvenir shopping, trail maps and more! Start planning.

Swinging Bridge Couple at Grandfather Mtn

Nov & Dec: What to do?

Many say it’s the most wonderful time of year as deep blue skies appear many days with 100-mile views. Find plenty to see and do in the “quiet season” with postcard winter scenes. Watch the wildlife, see endless vistas from the bridge and shop for special gifts. Read more.

New in 2022: Wilson Center for Nature Discovery

Opening in mid 2022 is our Conservation Campus with the new Wilson Center for Nature Discovery, classrooms, amphitheater, botanical gardens and more. View our interactive map to learn more!

Join the Bridge Club

With your annual pass membership, enjoy greater access to the wonders of Grandfather Mountain with unlimited free admission and many benefits. Help our non-profit Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation build a bridge to the future. Find out more!