This event is SOLD OUT, and the waiting lists for "VIP Reception" and "Presentation" tickets are both full. As a child in England, Jeremy Wade was obsessed with fishing. However, as he grew up, the rivers seemed more crowded with fishermen and the catches less mythical, and Wade’s dream faded. A chance discovery in his […]
NOTE: This Educator Workshop is intended specifically for educators — not the general public. Growing Up WILD is an early childhood program that builds on children's sense of wonder about nature and invites them to explore wildlife and their habitats, with an emphasis on promoting aquatic resource appreciation and stewardship. Through a wide range of […]
Richard Louv is a journalist and author of 10 books, including “Our Wild Calling: How Connecting with Animals Can Transform Our Lives – and Save Theirs,” “Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature-Deficit Disorder” and “The Nature Principle: Reconnecting with Life in a Virtual Age.” His books have been translated and published […]
Two iconic North Carolina attractions and businesses celebrate the flight of John Harris, founder of Kitty Hawk Kites, with programming, a panel discussion and fun. All activities are open to Grandfather Mountain guests on July 27. It is recommended that folks book tickets in advance at grandfather.com. Outdoor elements of this event are weather permitting. […]
Join Gary Kauffman as we learn about what makes Southern Appalachian Sky Islands so unique. These Pleistocene relics have retreated to the highest elevations of the Southern Appalachian Mountains and are home to many rare and endangered species that are not found anywhere else in the state, region and world! We will explore the Sky […]
H. Dale Hall has over 40 years of professional experience in fish and wildlife resource management in both the federal and private sectors. He served over 30 years in the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, with duties across the United States and the Caribbean. In the course of those assignments, Hall worked on nearly every […]
Landscape photography reflects the natural world, but may include wildlife, objects or people. Participants will learn basic camera and observational skills to create stunning photographic images. Though designed for beginners, students with more intermediate skills are encouraged to join. Todd Bush is a photographer based in Banner Elk, N.C. Todd has specialized in making images […]
Attend one of our Daily Programs in April-October presented by our animal habitat curators and park educators. These fascinating interpretive programs throughout the park are included in your admission ticket. See our current list of programs.
Consider the performance of your home landscape. Would you describe it as a fit, functional work of art that reflects your lifestyle and encourages outdoor activity? If not, join landscape architect, Preston Montague, for a design workshop that will help you make informed decisions about issues facing you in the landscape. Preston will present principles […]
This event is SOLD OUT. To be placed on the waiting list, please email judi@grandfather.com with your name, phone number and the number of tickets you are interested in reserving. Explore the mountain after hours with your own personal guides during our Grandfather by Night series! You’ll discover some of the park’s nighttime wonders, watch a stunning sunset […]
This event is SOLD OUT. At this time, the waiting list is full, but we encourage you to visit our event calendar and explore some of our other upcoming events. Join Anthony Love from Appalachian State University as we learn about the geologic history captured within the rocks of Grandfather Mountain. Participants will be introduced to […]
For more than three decades, Our State “Ramblin’ Man” columnist T. Edward Nickens has reported on conservation, the outdoors and Southern culture for some of the world’s most respected publications. He is editor-at-large and columnist for Field & Stream, contributing editor for Garden & Gun and Ducks Unlimited magazines, and editor-in-chief of Tail, the saltwater flyfishing magazine. His work has appeared in Smithsonian, National Geographic Adventure, Men’s Journal and many […]
Join Mattie Decker, a certified forest therapy guide for a relaxing 2 to 2.5-hour stroll through the forest at Grandfather Mountain. Through a series of invitations, you will have an opportunity to focus on being present in the moment, deepening your connection with nature and community and enjoying the many gifts nature has to offer. […]
For nearly three decades, Jeff Corwin has been telling stories of wildlife and nature to a global audience through his many celebrated television series on ABC, NBC, Travel Channel, CNN, Food Network, Disney Channel and Discovery Networks. Jeff is currently the creator, executive producer and presenter of the groundbreaking television series Wildlife Nation, which debuted […]
This workshop will take place at Grandfather Mountain and be hosted by Nantahala Outdoor Center’s SOLO Southeast Wilderness Medicine and Survival School. Instruction both days is from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Registration is currently up and running and is being hosted online by SOLO Southeast. Register here. (Look for the Grandfather Mountain event taking […]
NOTE: This Educator Workshop is intended specifically for educators — not the general public. This workshop is open to individuals studying for the NC Environmental Education Certification or those needing CE Credits to maintain their certification and will focus on salamanders in North Carolina. Hosted by Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation’s own Education and Interpretation staff, […]
Join us for a compelling panel discussion that explores nature’s resilience after Hurricane Helene, with powerful findings and updates one year later. The event will open with meteorologist Brad Panovich setting the stage of the storm’s path and record-breaking impacts on our region. From there, a panel discussion with Panovich, wildlife biologist Marquette Crockett and […]
Conor Knighton is a correspondent for “CBS Sunday Morning” and the author of the New York Times best seller “Leave Only Footprints: My Acadia-to-Zion Journey Through Every National Park.” Described by BookPage as “entertaining, informative, and inspirational,” "Leave Only Footprints" is an account of the year Knighton spent wandering through America’s “best idea,” exploring the threads that tie […]
Visit Grandfather Mountain for an afternoon of nature programs about animals that some consider creepy and crawly! This fun-filled celebration includes an opportunity to trick-or-treat through the animal habitats area and then watch special Halloween enrichments be given to the animals. Plus, children in costume are admitted at half-price. Included with admission.
Back by popular demand, Grandfather Mountain, the not-for-profit nature park run by the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation, is offering a sunrise experience in 2026. This special event, titled “Sunrise at the Swinging Bridge,” will provide guests with the rare opportunity to be in the park outside of regular operating hours and to hopefully experience a […]
Join us for a fun-filled, nature-themed afternoon of music, where families and kids can groove to the sounds in nature! This interactive concert held in the Williams Outdoor Learning Space celebrates the beauty of the natural world, featuring lively performances, eco-themed songs and hands-on activities that teach kids about conservation. Included with park admission. This […]
Join us to learn about non-native invasive species that can threaten our native flora and fauna and see different management strategies in action. After exploring the techniques Grandfather Mountain Natural Resources staff use to promote native species in the park, we’ll head into the woods for hands-on experience removing invasive plants. Participants will learn non-native […]
Take a daily, short, guided stroll that highlights Grandfather Mountain’s rhododendron species and blooms. Included with admission. See the blooms and learn about their history, attributes and roles they play in the mountain’s ecological communities. The easygoing walks take approximately 20 minutes and are fit for guests of all ages - wheelchair and stroller accessible. […]
Take a daily, short, guided stroll that highlights Grandfather Mountain’s rhododendron species and blooms. Included with admission. See the blooms and learn about their history, attributes and roles they play in the mountain’s ecological communities. The easygoing walks take approximately 20 minutes and are fit for guests of all ages - wheelchair and stroller accessible. […]
Take a daily, short, guided stroll that highlights Grandfather Mountain’s rhododendron species and blooms. Included with admission. See the blooms and learn about their history, attributes and roles they play in the mountain’s ecological communities. The easygoing walks take approximately 20 minutes and are fit for guests of all ages - wheelchair and stroller accessible. […]
Take a daily, short, guided stroll that highlights Grandfather Mountain’s rhododendron species and blooms. Included with admission. See the blooms and learn about their history, attributes and roles they play in the mountain’s ecological communities. The easygoing walks take approximately 20 minutes and are fit for guests of all ages - wheelchair and stroller accessible. […]
Take a daily, short, guided stroll that highlights Grandfather Mountain’s rhododendron species and blooms. Included with admission. See the blooms and learn about their history, attributes and roles they play in the mountain’s ecological communities. The easygoing walks take approximately 20 minutes and are fit for guests of all ages - wheelchair and stroller accessible. […]
Take a daily, short, guided stroll that highlights Grandfather Mountain’s rhododendron species and blooms. Included with admission. See the blooms and learn about their history, attributes and roles they play in the mountain’s ecological communities. The easygoing walks take approximately 20 minutes and are fit for guests of all ages - wheelchair and stroller accessible. […]
Take a daily, short, guided stroll that highlights Grandfather Mountain’s rhododendron species and blooms. Included with admission. See the blooms and learn about their history, attributes and roles they play in the mountain’s ecological communities. The easygoing walks take approximately 20 minutes and are fit for guests of all ages - wheelchair and stroller accessible. […]
Take a daily, short, guided stroll that highlights Grandfather Mountain’s rhododendron species and blooms. Included with admission. See the blooms and learn about their history, attributes and roles they play in the mountain’s ecological communities. The easygoing walks take approximately 20 minutes and are fit for guests of all ages - wheelchair and stroller accessible. […]
Take a daily, short, guided stroll that highlights Grandfather Mountain’s rhododendron species and blooms. Included with admission. See the blooms and learn about their history, attributes and roles they play in the mountain’s ecological communities. The easygoing walks take approximately 20 minutes and are fit for guests of all ages - wheelchair and stroller accessible. […]
Take a daily, short, guided stroll that highlights Grandfather Mountain’s rhododendron species and blooms. Included with admission. See the blooms and learn about their history, attributes and roles they play in the mountain’s ecological communities. The easygoing walks take approximately 20 minutes and are fit for guests of all ages - wheelchair and stroller accessible. […]
Take a daily, short, guided stroll that highlights Grandfather Mountain’s rhododendron species and blooms. Included with admission. See the blooms and learn about their history, attributes and roles they play in the mountain’s ecological communities. The easygoing walks take approximately 20 minutes and are fit for guests of all ages - wheelchair and stroller accessible. […]
This event is SOLD OUT. To be placed on the waiting list, please email judi@grandfather.com with your name, phone number and the number of tickets you are interested in reserving. Explore the mountain after hours with your own personal guides during our Grandfather by Night series! You’ll discover some of the park’s nighttime wonders, watch a stunning sunset […]
Take a daily, short, guided stroll that highlights Grandfather Mountain’s rhododendron species and blooms. Included with admission. See the blooms and learn about their history, attributes and roles they play in the mountain’s ecological communities. The easygoing walks take approximately 20 minutes and are fit for guests of all ages - wheelchair and stroller accessible. […]
Take a daily, short, guided stroll that highlights Grandfather Mountain’s rhododendron species and blooms. Included with admission. See the blooms and learn about their history, attributes and roles they play in the mountain’s ecological communities. The easygoing walks take approximately 20 minutes and are fit for guests of all ages - wheelchair and stroller accessible. […]
NOTE: This Educator Workshop is intended specifically for educators — not the general public. Join Grandfather Mountain’s Interpretation and Education staff and Matt Robinson from the Town of Beech Mountain Parks and Recreation as we explore activities in the Project Learning Tree Explore Your Environment K-8 Activity Guide. This workshop is geared toward K-5th educators, though all […]
Registration for this event is now closed. This popular shutterbug weekend includes presentations from top nature photographers, hands-on field courses, a friendly contest and the rare opportunity to photograph the mountain’s spectacular scenery before and after regular business hours. This popular weekend welcomes all levels of photographers, making it fun and engaging no matter what […]
Join us to celebrate the birthdays of our resident animals with games, contests, crafts and surprises. The park's wildlife habitat staff hosts a fun-filled afternoon for guests, as well as programs to celebrate the park’s furry and feathered inhabitants. Millie the Bear, the mountain's mascot, will make special appearances throughout the day. Events begin at […]
NOTE: This Educator Workshop is intended specifically for educators — not the general public. The focus of this 10-hour workshop is to prepare participants from a variety of educational backgrounds and experiences in both the formal and non-formal sectors to use exemplary Environmental Education teaching methods. Participants will learn about a variety of teaching techniques, methods […]
This event is SOLD OUT. To be placed on the waiting list, please email judi@grandfather.com with your name, phone number and the number of tickets you are interested in reserving. Explore the mountain after hours with your own personal guides during our Grandfather by Night series! You’ll discover some of the park’s nighttime wonders, watch a stunning sunset […]
This event is SOLD OUT. To be placed on the waiting list, please email judi@grandfather.com with your name, phone number and the number of tickets you are interested in reserving. Join Shannon Burbridge, an experienced movement instructor and educator with over 37 years of experience in the fitness and wellness field, to immerse yourself in a full day […]
Explore the mountain after hours with your own personal guides during our Grandfather by Night series! You’ll discover some of the park’s nighttime wonders, watch a stunning sunset (weather permitting) and experience the mountain as never before! The evening starts atop Grandfather Mountain at the Mile High Swinging Bridge, where participants can explore and observe […]
The Grizzly Forager is an aspirational social media account with the primary aim of inspiring parents to get outside with their kids via the art of foraging. Arthur, Sybbie, and their mum and dad, John and Christina, create wholesome and visually appealing posts and reels that aim to educate, inspire and encourage kids of all […]
Embark on a wild adventure with The Grizzly Forager on the mountain in search of mysterious treasure made by wasps, which explorers of old gathered and made into ink – the same ink that was used to sign the Declaration of Independence! Arthur, Sybbie and their dad, John, will guide you through the process of […]
On Animal Enrichment Day, guests will see firsthand how Grandfather Mountain cares for its resident animals. Visitors can enjoy watching demonstrations, talk directly with keepers and participate in family-oriented games and crafts. Included with admission.
NOTE: This Educator Workshop is intended specifically for educators — not the general public. This workshop is open to individuals studying for the NC Environmental Education Certification or those needing CE Credits to maintain their certification and will focus on bears in North Carolina. Hosted by Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation’s own Interpretation and Education staff, […]
This event is SOLD OUT. To be placed on the waiting list, please email judi@grandfather.com with your name, phone number, the name and date of this event and the number of tickets you are interested in reserving. Explore the mountain after hours with your own personal guides during our Grandfather by Night series! You’ll discover some of […]
Back by popular demand, Grandfather Mountain, the not-for-profit nature park run by the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation, is offering a sunrise experience in 2026. This special event, titled “Sunrise at the Swinging Bridge,” will provide guests with the rare opportunity to be in the park outside of regular operating hours and to hopefully experience a […]
Join us for an in-depth exploration of the natural community types found on Grandfather Mountain. In this class, you'll learn to recognize distinct habitats by studying their characteristic flora, fauna and environmental conditions. Guided by ecological principles and scientific tools, we’ll examine how factors such as elevation, topography, soil composition and microclimates shape these unique […]
This event is SOLD OUT. To be placed on the waiting list, please email judi@grandfather.com with your name, phone number and the number of tickets you are interested in reserving. The southern Appalachians are world-renowned for different types of fungi, from mushrooms to lichens, and are home to more than 2,000 species. Here's a chance to learn about […]
This event is SOLD OUT. To be placed on the waiting list, please email judi@grandfather.com with your name, phone number and the number of tickets you are interested in reserving. Explore the mountain after hours with your own personal guides during our Grandfather by Night series! You’ll discover some of the park’s nighttime wonders, watch a stunning sunset (weather permitting) and […]
Grandfather Mountain’s Junior Ranger Program is now the Junior Naturalist Program — a new program for our new Conservation Campus! Activities throughout the day will be provided specifically for children ages 5-12 to explore their environment and experience all that Grandfather has to offer.
The hardy settlers who made these mountains home were resourceful and made what they needed from what was at hand, and what was at hand was wood. We will examine the types of things Appalachian people have made for themselves from the forests around them like chairs, bowls, spoons, tool handles and more. We will […]
Explore the mountain after hours with your own personal guides during our Grandfather by Night series! You’ll discover some of the park’s nighttime wonders, watch a stunning sunset (weather permitting) and experience the mountain as never before! The evening starts atop Grandfather Mountain at the Mile High Swinging Bridge, where participants can explore and observe […]
Buddy Huffaker joined the Aldo Leopold Foundation in 1996 as a seasonal intern and has served as Executive Director since 1999. During his tenure, the foundation has grown into a national conservation organization with international reach, realizing the potential of a Land Ethic. Through educational and on-the-ground initiatives, Buddy's leadership of the foundation furthers the […]
This event is SOLD OUT. Other dates for Grandfather by Night events can be found here. If you prefer to be put on the waitlist for this event, please email judi@grandfather.com with the event date and name, your name, phone number and the number of tickets you are interested in reserving. Explore the mountain after […]
This event is SOLD OUT. To be placed on the waiting list, please email judi@grandfather.com with your name, phone number and the number of tickets you are interested in reserving. Join Mattie Decker, a certified forest therapy guide, for a relaxing 2 to 2.5-hour stroll through the forest at Grandfather Mountain. Through a series of invitations, you will have the opportunity […]
NOTE: This Educator Workshop is intended specifically for educators — not the general public. BEETLES (Better Environmental Education, Teaching, Learning and Expertise Sharing) provides learning resources devoted to improving the quality of outdoor science education for field instructors, leaders and classroom teachers.
Eleanor Spicer Rice, Ph.D., is an entomologist, award-winning author, and nationally recognized science communicator whose work explores the surprising connections between people and the natural world. She earned her doctorate in entomology from North Carolina State University and has since authored more than ten books, including the acclaimed DEADLIEST series and Ants: Workers of the World. Eleanor […]
This event is SOLD OUT. To be placed on the waiting list, please email judi@grandfather.com with your name, phone number and the number of tickets you are interested in reserving. Explore the mountain after hours with your own personal guides during our Grandfather by Night series! You’ll discover some of the park’s nighttime wonders, watch a stunning sunset (weather permitting) and […]