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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260822T100000
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SUMMARY:Mindfulness and Well-being Series: Nature and Forest Therapy at Grandfather Mountain
DESCRIPTION: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.  \nJoin 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 to focus on being present in the moment\, deepening your connection with nature and community and enjoying the many gifts nature has to offer. \n \n“Forest Bathing” is a walk in nature during which your guide will share mindfulness practices and invitations designed to connect you more deeply to your inner landscapes as well as the world around you. Inspired by shinrin-yoku (forest-bath) the Japanese art of immersing oneself in a forest environment\, forest bathing walks invite guests to spend time in nature in a way that invites healing for us\, as well as our fraught ecosystems\, and our community. \nProgram Itinerary\n10 a.m. – Meet at the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery. We begin with an introduction to Forest Bathing\, the watershed and history of the ancestral lands of the walk.\n10:30 – 12 p.m. – We will experience the forest and trails on the mountain\, with a variety of “invitations” to explore our relationship with the forest and “more than human world” of nature.\n12 p.m. – Lunch\n12:30 p.m. – Return to Wilson Center\n1 p.m. – We will end with a tea ceremony with tea made from plants of Grandfather Mountain. \nTickets\nThis event costs $40 for general admission and $34 for members of Grandfather Mountain’s Bridge Club – plus tax. Registration opens on this page on June 22\, at 10 a.m. Limited to 12 participants. \nBridge Club Members\, click here to purchase tickets.\nYou will need to use your Bridge Club member number (located on your card below the barcode) to purchase. \nNon-Bridge Club Members\, click here to purchase tickets. \nThis 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.  \nWhat’s included?\nYour program cost includes admission into the park\, field instruction and transportation during your program (you may drive your own vehicle to visit sites on the mountain if you would prefer). It does not include meals or lodging. Bringing a bagged lunch is recommended for most field courses\, although Mildred’s Grill will be open to attendees. \nTips are not accepted for field courses. However\, donations to the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation are accepted if you would like to recognize a program. \nGeneral Clothing List\nMuch of your time will be spent outdoors and all programs are held rain or shine. You should be prepared for a variety of mountain weather conditions and temperatures. Appropriate clothing\, equipment and footwear are very important. \nEquipment: \n\nDaypack with enough room to carry extra clothing\, water\, lunch\, camera\, etc.\nWater Bottle\nSunglasses\nSunscreen\nSturdy hiking boots or closed-toed shoes are required\nBinoculars\n\nRefunds/Cancellations\nGrandfather Mountain events generally sell out and have a waiting list associated with the event. If you cannot attend the field course that you are registered for\, please let us know. Full refunds will be given to individuals who reach out to us at least five days before the event. This allows time for individuals on the waiting list to make accommodations to attend the event. To cancel your registration\, please call 828-833-6332 or email judi@grandfather.com. \nWe ask that individuals who are sick with any illness to stay home to ensure the health and safety of other participants\, our staff\, and the field course instructors – refunds will be granted to these individuals.
URL:https://grandfather.com/event/mindfulness-forest-therapy/
LOCATION:NC
CATEGORIES:Featured Events
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260829T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260829T160000
DTSTAMP:20260529T184718Z
CREATED:20230208T204736Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260529T184718Z
UID:10000107-1787997600-1788019200@grandfather.com
SUMMARY:Educator Workshop: BEETLES
DESCRIPTION:NOTE: This Educator Workshop is intended specifically for educators — not the general public. \nBEETLES Professional Learning Sessions are active experiences crafted to encourage instructors to look at different specific aspects of research-based science pedagogy and to inspire shifts in instructors’ thinking about their own teaching and learning. This session will cover the “Making Observations and Promoting Discussion Sessions” where we will learn how we can help learners make careful observations while encouraging wonder and curiosity and how productive talk leads to deep learning. \nThis is the first of two workshops as a partnership with the Western North Carolina Nature Center. The second workshop will cover “Questioning Strategies and Assessing for Learning” on February 20\, 2027 at the WNC Nature Center. You do not have to sign up for both in order to attend one! \nThis workshop qualifies for Criteria I or II in the EE Certification Program. CEU renewal credits are available. \nThis workshop is free to attend\, although advance registration is required. Limited to 25 participants. Registration for this workshop opens on this webpage on June 29\, at 10 a.m. \nClick here to register. \nAttendees are asked to bring their own lunch\, although there is a restaurant on site. \nGeneral Clothing List\nMuch of your time will be spent outdoors and all programs are held rain or shine. You should be prepared for a variety of mountain weather conditions and temperatures. Appropriate clothing\, equipment and footwear are very important. \nEquipment:\nDaypack with enough room to carry extra clothing\, water\, lunch\, camera\, etc.\nWater Bottle\nSunglasses\nSunscreen\nSturdy hiking boots or closed-toed shoes are required\nNotepad/paper\nPen/pencil \nAdditional Information\nEducational Experience Forms will be available for certification hours and Continuing Education Credit for the instructor to sign off on. Grandfather Mountain may also serve as Criteria III – Site visit hours\, but these hours must be gained outside of the time that the workshop takes place (i.e.\, prior to or after the workshop). Staff will be available to sign off on these site visit forms. \nCancellations\nGrandfather Mountain events generally sell out and have a waiting list associated with the event. If you cannot attend the field course that you are registered for\, please let us know. Full refunds will be given to individuals who reach out to us at least five days before the event. This allows time for individuals on the waiting list to make accommodations to attend the event. To cancel your registration\, please call 828-833-6332 or email judi@grandfather.com. \nWe ask that individuals who are sick with any illness to stay home to ensure the health and safety of other participants\, our staff\, and the field course instructors – refunds will be granted to these individuals.
URL:https://grandfather.com/event/beetles-educator-workshop/
LOCATION:Grandfather Mountain\, 2050 Blowing Rock Highway\, Linville\, NC\, 28646\, United States
CATEGORIES:Certification Programs,Featured Events
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260903T164500
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260903T194500
DTSTAMP:20260702T182551Z
CREATED:20260520T181215Z
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SUMMARY:Grandfather Presents: Eleanor Spicer Rice
DESCRIPTION: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. \nEleanor is the host of Our State Magazine’s North Carolina\, Naturally\, a print\, podcast\, and video series highlighting the remarkable biodiversity and hidden stories of North Carolina. Her work has appeared in national media\, museums\, classrooms\, and public speaking venues across the country\, where she is known for blending rigorous science with humor\, storytelling\, and wonder. \nWhether discussing spiders\, salamanders\, or the ecosystems living in our own homes\, Eleanor invites audiences to see the living world with fresh curiosity and deeper awe. She lives in Raleigh\, North Carolina\, with her two sons\, dogs\, a lizard\, and a determined flock of homing pigeons. \nSpicer Rice’s Sept. 3 presentation is titled “North Carolina’s Hidden Superpowers And How Salamanders Are Secretly Running Your Life.” From mountain salamanders to coastal seagrass\, North Carolina is filled with hidden ecological marvels that quietly shape our lives. Join entomologist and author Eleanor Spicer Rice for a journey through the state’s four ecoregions and discover the surprising creatures\, relationships\, and natural systems that make North Carolina one of the most biologically remarkable places in America. \nThis event is hosted in part with Our State. Each month\, Our State magazine celebrates the very best of N.C. through lively storytelling and stunning photography. Founded in 1933\, Our State reflects the beauty\, nature\, nostalgia\, travel\, and food of the state. It’s the perfect source of information for those who have lived in N.C. all their lives\, those who are just becoming acquainted with the state\, or those looking to visit or relocate. This award-winning magazine reaches more than a million readers each month\, with subscribers in every state and 20 foreign countries. Learn more about Our State magazine by visiting ourstate.com. \nSome of Spicer Rice’s children’s books will be on sale at the event. \nTickets go on sale online for this event here at 10 a.m. on Wednesday\, July 1. \nGrandfather Presents Schedule \n\n9 a.m. | Grandfather Mountain opens for the day\, and “VIP Reception” ticket holders are allowed access to the park. Your event ticket will be scanned at one of our ticket booths at the entrance gate.\n4:45 p.m. | “Presentation” ticket holders are allowed to enter the park and are welcome to explore the Conservation Campus (Wilson Center\, Mildred the Bear Environmental Habitats and more) prior to the speaker presentation. Your event ticket will be scanned at one of our ticket booths at the entrance gate.\n4:45 – 5:45 p.m. | Check-in for all event attendees near the front entrance of the Wilson Center (to receive your wristband for the event)\n5 – 5:30 p.m. | “VIP” Reception in the Wilson Center (“VIP Reception” ticket holders only)\n5:45 – 6:45 p.m. | Speaker presentation in the Classroom in the Clouds\n6:45 – 7:30 p.m. | Meet-and-greet/book signing with speaker\n7:45 p.m. | Park should be clear of all Grandfather Presents guests.\n\nGrandfather Presents Tickets\nTwo tiers of ticket access are offered for Grandfather Presents events. \n“VIP Reception” tickets include a VIP reception with the guest speaker that features heavy hors d’oeuvres\, in addition to the program and the “meet-and-greet/book signing” session after the event. Admission to the park for the day is also included. \n\n$60 “VIP Reception” Adult\n$51 “VIP Reception” Bridge Club Member (limited quantity available)\n\n“Presentation” tickets are a more cost-effective option and include only the speaker’s program and the “meet-and-greet/book signing” session after the event. \n\n$25 “Presentation” Adult\n$20 “Presentation” Bridge Club Member\nChildren under 12 are admitted free with a paying adult (maximum of four free children per purchase).\n\nBridge Club Members\, click here to purchase VIP Reception tickets.\nYou will need to use your Bridge Club member number (located on your card below the barcode) to purchase. \nNon-Bridge Club Members\, click here to purchase VIP Reception tickets. \nBridge Club Members\, click here to purchase Presentation tickets.\nYou will need to use your Bridge Club member number (located on your card below the barcode) to purchase. \nNon-Bridge Club Members\, click here to purchase Presentation tickets. \nRefunds/Cancellations\nFull refunds will be given to individuals who reach out to us at least five days before the event (midnight\, Aug. 29). This allows time for individuals on the waiting list to make accommodations to attend the event. To cancel your registration\, please call 828-833-6332 Monday – Friday between 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. or email judi@grandfather.com.
URL:https://grandfather.com/event/grandfather-presents-eleanor-spicer-rice/
LOCATION:Grandfather Mountain\, 2050 Blowing Rock Highway\, Linville\, NC\, 28646\, United States
CATEGORIES:After Hours Programs,Featured Events,Grandfather Presents
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260904T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260904T210000
DTSTAMP:20260824T163732Z
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SUMMARY:Grandfather by Night: Twilight Hike
DESCRIPTION: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.  \nExplore 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! \nThe evening starts atop Grandfather Mountain at the Mile High Swinging Bridge\, where participants can explore and observe sunset from this lofty vantage point. During this time\, park educators will be on hand to discuss the unique flora and crepuscular (active during twilight) fauna that call Grandfather home. \nIn-park transportation is provided. Each Grandfather by Night event is limited to 24 participants. Advance registration is required. Please note: This event is for individuals eight years of age and older. \nWe are offering two versions of our Grandfather by Night series this year\, Grandfather by Night: Twilight Hike and Grandfather by Night: Naturalist Program. \nThis event is a Grandfather by Night: Twilight Hike. \nThe Twilight Hike version will include a hike after sunset to discuss and look for the creatures that are more active after the sun goes down. The group will explore a unique forest ecosystem from top to bottom in search of salamanders\, owls\, flying squirrels\, fireflies and any other creatures they might come across. The Twilight Hike program is not accessible to guests with limited mobility. Participants signed up for this version will need to participate in the hike\, as staying behind while the rest of the group hikes is not possible. \nThe event starts for registered participants at 7:00 p.m. In-park transportation will be provided. \nLearn more about this event series\, the two versions of programming and all Grandfather by Night dates. \nThis event costs $50 for general admission and $42 for members of Grandfather Mountain’s Bridge Club – plus tax. Registration opens on this page on July 6\, 2026\, at 10 a.m. \nBridge Club Members\, click here to purchase tickets.\nYou will need to use your Bridge Club member number (located on your card below the barcode) to purchase. \nNon-Bridge Club Members\, click here to purchase tickets. \nThis 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.  \nWhat to Bring?\nYou should be prepared for a variety of mountain weather conditions and temperatures. Appropriate clothing\, equipment and footwear are very important. A jacket is needed on most summer evenings at Grandfather! \nRefunds/Cancellations\nThe majority of Grandfather Mountain events generally sell out and have a waiting list. If you cannot attend the event that you registered for\, please let us know. Full refunds will be given to individuals who reach out to us at least five days before the event. This allows time for individuals on the waiting list to make accommodations to attend the event. To cancel your registration\, please call 828-733-2013 Monday through Friday\, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. \nLearn more about the Grandfather by Night series.
URL:https://grandfather.com/event/by-night-6/
LOCATION:Grandfather Mountain\, 2050 Blowing Rock Highway\, Linville\, NC\, 28646\, United States
CATEGORIES:After Hours Programs,Featured Events
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260911T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260911T210000
DTSTAMP:20260529T185823Z
CREATED:20260318T155926Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260529T185823Z
UID:10001809-1789153200-1789160400@grandfather.com
SUMMARY:Grandfather by Night: Naturalist Program
DESCRIPTION: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! \nThe evening starts atop Grandfather Mountain at the Mile High Swinging Bridge\, where participants can explore and observe sunset from this lofty vantage point. During this time\, park educators will be on hand to discuss the unique flora and crepuscular (active during twilight) fauna that call Grandfather home. \nIn-park transportation is provided. Each Grandfather by Night event is limited to 24 participants. Advance registration is required. Please note: This event is for individuals eight years of age and older. \nWe are offering two versions of our Grandfather by Night series this year\, Grandfather by Night: Twilight Hike and Grandfather by Night: Naturalist Program. \nThis event is a Grandfather by Night: Naturalist Program. \nThe Naturalist Program version of Grandfather by Night includes an outdoor interpretive program about flora\, fauna\, folklore and other topics after sunset. This edition of the event series is held outdoors and is accessible for those in a wheelchair or with limited mobility. \nGrandfather Mountain’s vehicle fleet includes a 12-seat shuttle that has a 1\,000-pound Braun Lift and accommodates an additional two people in wheelchairs. During the ticket purchase process\, please note if anyone you purchased a ticket for has any accessibility needs so that the proper transportation can be arranged. You may also reach out to the Grandfather Mountain office (828-733-2013) to share this information. \nThe event starts for registered participants at 7:00 p.m. In-park transportation will be provided. \nLearn more about this event series\, the two versions of programming and all Grandfather by Night dates. \nThis event costs $50 for general admission and $42 for members of Grandfather Mountain’s Bridge Club – plus tax. Registration opens on this page on July 13\, 2026\, at 10 a.m. \nBridge Club Members\, click here to purchase tickets.\nYou will need to use your Bridge Club member number (located on your card below the barcode) to purchase. \nNon-Bridge Club Members\, click here to purchase tickets. \nWhat to Bring?\nYou should be prepared for a variety of mountain weather conditions and temperatures. Appropriate clothing\, equipment and footwear are very important. A jacket is needed on most summer evenings at Grandfather! \nRefunds/Cancellations\nThe majority of Grandfather Mountain events generally sell out and have a waiting list. If you cannot attend the event that you registered for\, please let us know. Full refunds will be given to individuals who reach out to us at least five days before the event. This allows time for individuals on the waiting list to make accommodations to attend the event. To cancel your registration\, please call 828-733-2013 Monday through Friday\, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. \nLearn more about the Grandfather by Night series.
URL:https://grandfather.com/event/by-night10/
LOCATION:NC
CATEGORIES:After Hours Programs,Featured Events
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DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260912
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260913
DTSTAMP:20260812T172808Z
CREATED:20230107T143931Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260812T172808Z
UID:10000086-1789171200-1789257599@grandfather.com
SUMMARY:55th-Annual Girl Scout Day
DESCRIPTION:Girl Scouts are invited to join the park’s naturalists for a fun-filled learning adventure on Grandfather Mountain. Plus\, all Girl Scouts and troop leaders are admitted free with proof of membership (all or part of a uniform or a troop roster with the leader’s name on it)\, and family members will receive discounted admission ($1 off child admission and $2 off adult admission). Advance reservations for park admission are not required\, meaning scouts\, troop leaders and family members are welcome to arrive the day of the event without admission tickets already in hand. \nTips for making your visit with us fun and comfortable:\nPlease carpool. We are open to the public on Girl Scout Day\, and parking may be limited.\nDress for mountain weather: wind\, rain\, cold temperatures. We can be 10+ degrees cooler than your home community. Bring waterproof\, windproof jackets\, sneakers / athletic closed-toe shoes. NO crocs\, sandals or flipflops please.\nBring a reusable water bottle…Reduce\, Reuse\, Recycle. We have two water-bottle refill stations. They are located in the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery lobby (behind the bear statue) and the Top Shop first floor.\nPack your own lunch to avoid waiting in line at Mildred’s Grill. Lines can get very long around lunchtime\, especially on busy Saturdays in the fall.\nTroop leaders\, your scouts can complete some steps toward earning a few badges. See the program schedule for badge suggestions. We do not award or provide any badges from Grandfather Mountain. \nThe day has a robust schedule of simultaneous offerings (which may be subject to change due to weather or other factors). Scouts are welcome to pick and choose activities from either program list\, below. \n2026 Girl Scout Day Schedule\nAll-day Offerings\nLinville Search and Rescue: Activities next to the Outdoor Learning Space \nVisit this display anytime during the day to learn best practices for active outdoor activities.  \nLeave No Trace Table: In the Wilson Center\, near the Classroom in the Clouds \nVisit this display anytime during the day to learn the best sustainable practices for all outdoor activities.  \nCraft Table and Games: Classroom in the Clouds/Classroom Lobby\nThe craft table will act as a continuation of the Bird Buddy craft. Games are assorted.  \nProgram 1\n10 – 11 a.m. | Guided Bird Walk: meet at the Outdoor Learning Space (rain location: Mildred’s Grill to observe the bird feeders) \nLearn more about birds from experts and enthusiasts. This activity will be led by representatives from High Country Audubon. \n11 a.m. – 12 p.m. | Birds are Dinos!: Outdoor Learning Space (lightning location: Classroom in the Clouds) \nLearn about fossils and bird tracks. \n12 – 1 p.m. | Lunch and Display Tables: Outdoor Learning Space and Wilson Center breezeway (rain location: Classroom in the Clouds)\nTake a break and eat lunch\, either packed or at Mildred’s Grill. \nExplore interpretive tables from the Xerces Society and Conservation Through Colors\, help color a banner or participate in Bird Buffet.  \n1 – 2 p.m. | Ambassador Animals: in front of Yonni’s Clubhouse (rain location: Wilson Center breezeway) \nMeet some of Grandfather Mountain’s resident animals who do not reside in the habitats.  \n2 – 3 p.m. | Nature Journaling: Mildred’s Grill deck (rain location: Yonni’s Clubhouse) \nJoin Grandfather Mountain’s naturalists for a peaceful\, reflective activity.  \n3 – 4 p.m. | Bear Cookie Enrichment: bear habitat \nWatch the resident bears receive a special enrichment.  \nProgram 2\n10 – 11 a.m. | Bird Buddies: Classroom in the Clouds Lobby \nCreate a fun craft with the mountain’s naturalists and volunteers.  \n11 a.m. – 12 p.m. | Junior Hawk Watch: top of the mountain (rain location: Yonni’s Clubhouse) \nBe a citizen scientist\, counting raptors with our naturalists. This version is tailored for the young at heart.  \n12 – 1 p.m. | Lunch and Display Tables: Outdoor Learning Space and Wilson Center breezeway (rain location: Classroom in the Clouds) \nTake a break and eat lunch\, either packed or at Mildred’s Grill. \nExplore interpretive tables from the Xerces Society and Conservation Through Colors\, help color a banner or participate in Bird Buffet.  \n1 – 2 p.m. | Be a Wildlife Rehabber: Yonni’s Clubhouse \nLearn how to care for wildlife and your stuffed animals.  \n2 – 3 p.m. | What Do Birds Eat?: Cobey Botanical Garden (rain location: Yonni’s Clubhouse back deck) \nExplore seeds and bugs with High Country Wild.  \n3 – 4 p.m. | Bear Cookie Enrichment: bear habitat \nWatch the resident bears receive a special enrichment. 
URL:https://grandfather.com/event/girl-scout-day/
LOCATION:Grandfather Mountain\, 2050 Blowing Rock Highway\, Linville\, NC\, 28646\, United States
CATEGORIES:Featured Events,Naturalist Programs
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260918T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260918T210000
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CREATED:20240223T174811Z
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UID:10000604-1789758000-1789765200@grandfather.com
SUMMARY:Grandfather by Night: Naturalist Program
DESCRIPTION: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! \nThe evening starts atop Grandfather Mountain at the Mile High Swinging Bridge\, where participants can explore and observe sunset from this lofty vantage point. During this time\, park educators will be on hand to discuss the unique flora and crepuscular (active during twilight) fauna that call Grandfather home. \nIn-park transportation is provided. Each Grandfather by Night event is limited to 24 participants. Advance registration is required. Please note: This event is for individuals eight years of age and older. \nWe are offering two versions of our Grandfather by Night series this year\, Grandfather by Night: Twilight Hike and Grandfather by Night: Naturalist Program. \nThis event is a Grandfather by Night: Naturalist Program. \nThe Naturalist Program version of Grandfather by Night includes an outdoor interpretive program about flora\, fauna\, folklore and other topics after sunset. This edition of the event series is held outdoors and is accessible for those in a wheelchair or with limited mobility. \nGrandfather Mountain’s vehicle fleet includes a 12-seat shuttle that has a 1\,000-pound Braun Lift and accommodates an additional two people in wheelchairs. During the ticket purchase process\, please note if anyone you purchased a ticket for has any accessibility needs so that the proper transportation can be arranged. You may also reach out to the Grandfather Mountain office (828-733-2013) to share this information. \nThe event starts for registered participants at 7:30 p.m. In-park transportation will be provided. \nLearn more about this event series\, the two versions of programming and all Grandfather by Night dates. \nThis event costs $50 for general admission and $42 for members of Grandfather Mountain’s Bridge Club – plus tax. Registration opens on this page on July 17\, 2026\, at 10 a.m. \nBridge Club Members\, click here to purchase tickets.\nYou will need to use your Bridge Club member number (located on your card below the barcode) to purchase. \nNon-Bridge Club Members\, click here to purchase tickets. \nWhat to Bring?\nYou should be prepared for a variety of mountain weather conditions and temperatures. Appropriate clothing\, equipment and footwear are very important. A jacket is needed on most summer evenings at Grandfather! \nRefunds/Cancellations\nThe majority of Grandfather Mountain events generally sell out and have a waiting list. If you cannot attend the event that you registered for\, please let us know. Full refunds will be given to individuals who reach out to us at least five days before the event. This allows time for individuals on the waiting list to make accommodations to attend the event. To cancel your registration\, please call 828-733-2013 Monday through Friday\, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. \nLearn more about the Grandfather by Night series.
URL:https://grandfather.com/event/by-night9/
LOCATION:Grandfather Mountain\, 2050 Blowing Rock Highway\, Linville\, NC\, 28646\, United States
CATEGORIES:After Hours Programs,Featured Events
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260919T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260919T140000
DTSTAMP:20260727T191002Z
CREATED:20260422T161734Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260727T191002Z
UID:10001814-1789804800-1789826400@grandfather.com
SUMMARY:Adult Field Course: The Birds of Grandfather Mountain: The Wonders of Migration
DESCRIPTION: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.  \nGrandfather Mountain is an amazing diversity hotspot for breeding birds in the southern Appalachians with more than 120 species detected during the nesting season. But those numbers go up even more during spring and fall migration. Its position along the escarpment and the quality\, diversity\, and extent of forests and other habitats nearby make it a magnet for migrant species of all types. From warblers to hawks to hummingbirds\, migration is a wondrous period of the year for birders and nature enthusiasts alike. \nThis course provides the opportunity to visit several locations on the mountain to learn about the diversity of migrants\, the timing and mechanics of migration\, and hopefully see dozens of species using Grandfather as a staging area on their long flights to Central and South America. Our classroom program will take a deeper dive into the science of migration and some of the technology unlocking the secrets of bird movement. \n \nSteve Dowlan is a retired natural resource specialist\, formerly with the U.S. Forest Service in northwest Pennsylvania and the U.S. Bureau of Land Management in Oregon. He was the editor of Oregon Birds and the Journal of Oregon Field Ornithology in the 2000s. As a natural resource specialist for the BLM\, he conducted surveys and monitored known sites for northern spotted owls\, assisted with graduate research projects on harlequin ducks\, operated a MAPS banding station in the Old Cascades near Estacada\, conducted a study on fox sparrow subspecies in Oregon and assisted with training sessions for federal and state biologists who conducted standardized bird point counts in the Pacific Northwest. He has been a N.C. High Country resident since 2016 and is currently working on an independent study on common mergansers on the Watauga River. \nProgram Itinerary\n8:15 a.m. – Meet at the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery and Introductions\n8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. – Birding at a variety of locations on the mountain\n12 – 12:30 p.m. – Lunch break\n12:30 – 2 p.m. – Classroom presentation \nTickets\nThis event costs $60 for general admission and $51 for members of Grandfather Mountain’s Bridge Club – plus tax. \nRegistration opens on this page on July 20 at 10 a.m. Limited to 15 participants. \nThis 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.  \nWhat’s included?\nYour program cost includes admission into the park\, field instruction and transportation during your program (you may drive your own vehicle to visit sites on the mountain if you would prefer). It does not include meals or lodging. Bringing a bagged lunch is recommended for this field course\, although Mildred’s Grill will be open to attendees. \nTips are not accepted for field courses. However\, donations to the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation are accepted if you would like to recognize a program. \nGeneral Clothing List\nMuch of your time will be spent outdoors and all programs are held rain or shine. You should be prepared for a variety of mountain weather conditions and temperatures. Appropriate clothing\, equipment and footwear are very important. \nEquipment: \n\nDaypack with enough room to carry extra clothing\, water\, lunch\, camera\, etc.\nWater Bottle\nSunglasses\nSunscreen\nHiking Books\nBinoculars\nNotebook and pencil\n\nEquipment specific to this course:  \n\nCellphone for taking pictures or uploading to an identification app\n\nRefunds/Cancellations\nAdult Field Courses generally sell out and have a waiting list associated with the event. If you cannot attend the field course that you are registered for\, please let us know. Full refunds will be given to individuals who reach out to us at least five days before the event. This allows time for individuals on the waiting list to make accommodations to attend the event. To cancel your registration\, please call 828-833-6332 or email judi@grandfather.com. \nWe ask that individuals who are sick with any illness to stay home to ensure the health and safety of other participants\, our staff\, and the field course instructors – refunds will be granted to these individuals.
URL:https://grandfather.com/event/adult-field-course-birds-of-grandfather-migration/
LOCATION:NC
CATEGORIES:Adult Field Courses,Featured Events
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260922T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260922T140000
DTSTAMP:20260907T182415Z
CREATED:20260903T174332Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260907T182415Z
UID:10001844-1790074800-1790085600@grandfather.com
SUMMARY:Hawk Watch Popup
DESCRIPTION:Join us for a celebration of birds of prey\, fall migration and the changing seasons during our Hawk Watch Popup event! \nDiscover the fascinating world of raptors and learn more about the important role these birds play in our ecosystems. Throughout the event\, visitors can take part in a variety of engaging activities focused on bird conservation\, raptor identification and migration. Participants will also have the opportunity to learn how to properly use binoculars\, why scientists track seasonal changes and how researchers study the incredible journey of migrating birds. This event is included with admission to the park. All activities will be located at the top of the mountain\, near the bridge and the Top Shop. \nGrandfather Mountain is proud to support the mission of the Hawk Migration Association of North America\, which works to advance scientific knowledge of raptor populations and migration\, promote raptor conservation and inspire people of all ages and backgrounds to study and celebrate the wonder of raptor migration. \nWhether you’re an avid birder or simply curious about the wildlife passing overhead this fall\, come celebrate the remarkable story of raptor migration! \nLearn more about Hawk Watch at Grandfather Mountain.  \nHawk Watch Popup Schedule   \n11 a.m. – while supplies lasts | Bird Friendly Coffee: enjoy bird-friendly coffee and learn about how coffee impacts birds and their habitats. (Located at the outdoor staircase to the Mile High Swinging Bridge) \n11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. | Community Science at Grandfather Mountain: learn about the importance of community science both on and off of Grandfather Mountain with our Natural Resources team! (Located at the viewfinders at the top of the mountain) \n\n11 a.m. – 2 p.m. | Jr. Hawk Watch: learn about hawks and other raptors with High Country Wild. This program is geared toward children age 5-12\, though all ages are welcome. Learn about the common species that migrate past Grandfather Mountain and how to identify them. (Located next to the Mile High Swinging Bridge)  \n\n11 a.m. – 2 p.m. | Birding & Binoculars 101: an intro to birding and how to utilize binoculars. Geared toward teens and adults\, though all ages are welcome! (Located next to the Mile High Swinging Bridge)  \n12 p.m. – 1 p.m. | Phenology and Seasonality Activity: learn more about phenology (the study of the timing of natural events) with a Grandfather Mountain educator. Why do we care about when birds migrate or when fall color begins each year? Educators will discuss different methods of documenting these changes\, including nature journaling. ((Located at the top of the outdoor steps of the Mile High Swinging Bridge)  \n\n1 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. | Hawk Watch Peaks and Profiles: join Grandfather’s educators to learn more about the mountain’s unique weather\, climate\, flora and fauna. This particular Peaks and Profiles event will be Hawk Watch themed. (Located next to the Mile High Swinging Bridge)  \nIn the event of inclement weather\, all events will be moved to the 2nd floor of the Top Shop.
URL:https://grandfather.com/event/hawk-watch-popup/
LOCATION:NC
CATEGORIES:Featured Events
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260926T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260926T213000
DTSTAMP:20260624T161051Z
CREATED:20230623T180312Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260624T161051Z
UID:10000202-1790447400-1790458200@grandfather.com
SUMMARY:Creatures of the Night and Bonfire Delight
DESCRIPTION:Embrace your nocturnal side at Grandfather Mountain through Creatures of the Night and Bonfire Delight\, the park’s after-hours program where guests enjoy rare after-dark tours\, fireside tales and a chance to meet the park’s nighttime residents. \nThe evening begins around the glow of a bonfire at the Woods Walk Picnic Area as night falls. Guests will then have the opportunity to partake in three unique experiences as the group splits up and alternates between the different parts of the mountain. These activities include a trek (via shuttle) to atop the mountain at the Mile High Swinging Bridge\, as well as a visit to the Mildred the Bear Animal Habitats for a behind-the-scenes tour in which guests get to experience the mountain in a similar fashion as its nocturnal critters. The tour is conducted using red-light flashlights\, with an emphasis placed on the guests’ sensory experience while getting up close with the park’s bears\, otters\, elk and cougars. An educational focus is also placed on how the animals may use their senses of smell or eyesight to navigate or hunt at night. \nGroups will then descend back to the Woods Walk Picnic Area to gather around the fire\, roast s’mores and hear folktales from one of the mountain’s naturalists or educators. \nHours are 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. The event is open to 50 participants\, and tickets are $50 for general admission or $42 for Bridge Club members. Tickets will go on sale on Aug. 3 at 10 a.m. \nBridge Club Members\, click here to purchase tickets.\nYou will need to use your Bridge Club member number (located on your card below the barcode) to purchase. \nNon-Bridge Club Members\, click here to purchase tickets. \nRain Date – Please Read and Make Sure You Understand This Important Info\nThis event has a rain date of Oct. 3\, if needed\, meaning that the event could happen Sept. 26 or Oct.3. There will be no refunds given if the event is moved to the rain date. Participants will be notified by noon the day of the event regarding if the decision has been made to move Creatures of the Night to the rain date. \nRefunds will be issued if the event is canceled for both Sept. 26 and the rain date of Oct. 3.\nTicket sales will end on Sept. 26 at 12 p.m. or when the event sells out. \nPlease note: This event is for individuals eight years of age and older. \nParticipants should be prepared for a variety of the mountain’s weather conditions. It is recommended that they bring a rain jacket\, gloves and additional layers of clothing. Guests should also wear appropriate shoes or hiking boots in order to be comfortable while exploring the mountain’s rugged terrain. \nRed-light flashlights are given out\, but guests are also welcome to bring their own. Participants must bring their own s’more-making ingredients. S’more-making sticks are provided\, in addition to light refreshments\, such as apple cider and hot chocolate. \nRefunds/Cancellations\nThe majority of Grandfather Mountain events generally sell out and have a waiting list. If you cannot attend the event that you registered for please let us know. Full refunds will be given to individuals who reach out to us at least five days before the event. (The deadline to cancel and receive a refund for this event is 11:59 p.m. September 22.) This allows time for individuals on the waiting list to make accommodations to attend the event. To cancel your registration please call 828-733-2013\, Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.). We ask that individuals who are feeling ill stay home to ensure the health and safety of other participants and Grandfather Mountain staff. Refunds will be granted to these individuals.
URL:https://grandfather.com/event/creatures-of-night/
LOCATION:Grandfather Mountain\, 2050 Blowing Rock Highway\, Linville\, NC\, 28646\, United States
CATEGORIES:Featured Events
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