This event is SOLD OUT.
Ring in an epic New Year on Sunday, Jan. 1, with the first sunrise of 2023 — atop Grandfather Mountain. This special event will provide guests with the rare opportunity to visit Grandfather Mountain outside of regular operating hours and on a holiday.
Sunrise is at 7:38 a.m. Jan. 1, 2023, and Grandfather’s gates will open at 6:30 a.m. Due to safety regulations, participants may only visit the Mile High Swinging Bridge area during the event. To help warm up on a likely cold winter’s morning, the mountain will offer a complimentary hot beverage bar and doughnuts for sunrise guests in the Top Shop building. The restrooms in the Top Shop will also be accessible.
Participants are encouraged to bring a flashlight and wear heavy winter jackets, hats, gloves and rubber-soled shoes. The event may be canceled on short notice in case of inclement weather. In addition, a picture-perfect sunrise, unfortunately, cannot be guaranteed.
Tickets for this event go on sale online at 10 a.m. Monday, Nov. 21. Admission to the New Year’s sunrise event costs $50 for general admission, $35 for children (ages 4-12) and $25 for members of Grandfather Mountain’s Bridge Club. Admission includes an entire day’s access to Grandfather Mountain. As the remainder of the park doesn’t open until 9 a.m., participants are welcome to leave the park following sunrise to return later in the day for no additional cost.
This event is limited to 150 guests. (This event is SOLD OUT. Waitlist is full.)
Cancellation/Refund Policy
The majority of Grandfather Mountain events generally sell out and have a waiting list. If you cannot attend this event, please let us know. Full refunds will be given to individuals who reach out by Monday, Dec. 26. This allows time for individuals on the waiting list to make accommodations to attend the event. To cancel your registration, email judi@grandfather.com or call 828-733-2013, Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
If Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation cancels the event due to inclement weather, full refunds will be given.