September 2 is an auspicious date for Grandfather Mountain.
Sixty-eight years ago, it marked the opening of the world-famous Mile High Swinging Bridge.
In 2019, it saw the nonprofit nature park break ground on its most ambitious project since — the Conservation Campus.
Here, guests will experience the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery, featuring all new state-of-the-art museum exhibits (designed by PGAV Destinations of St. Louis, Missouri), as well as outdoor learning spaces, an amphitheater, botanical garden and more.
What follows is a photo retrospective, showcasing the campus’s progress, from ceremonial groundbreaking to construction to present day. To learn more about the Conservation Campus and how you can help, click here.


Photo by Natalie Brunner | Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation

Photo by Natalie Brunner | Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation

Photo by Natalie Brunner | Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation

Photo by Natalie Brunner | Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation

Photo by Natalie Brunner | Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation

Photo by Natalie Brunner | Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation

Photo by Natalie Brunner | Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation

Photo by Natalie Brunner | Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation

Photo by Natalie Brunner | Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation