BEGIN:VCALENDAR
VERSION:2.0
PRODID:-//Grandfather Mountain - ECPv6.16.3//NONSGML v1.0//EN
CALSCALE:GREGORIAN
METHOD:PUBLISH
X-WR-CALNAME:Grandfather Mountain
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://grandfather.com
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Grandfather Mountain
REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H
X-Robots-Tag:noindex
X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H
BEGIN:VTIMEZONE
TZID:America/New_York
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0400
TZNAME:EDT
DTSTART:20230312T070000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0400
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:EST
DTSTART:20231105T060000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0400
TZNAME:EDT
DTSTART:20240310T070000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0400
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:EST
DTSTART:20241103T060000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0400
TZNAME:EDT
DTSTART:20250309T070000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0400
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:EST
DTSTART:20251102T060000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0400
TZNAME:EDT
DTSTART:20260308T070000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0400
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:EST
DTSTART:20261101T060000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0400
TZNAME:EDT
DTSTART:20270314T070000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0400
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:EST
DTSTART:20271107T060000
END:STANDARD
END:VTIMEZONE
BEGIN:VTIMEZONE
TZID:UTC
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:+0000
TZOFFSETTO:+0000
TZNAME:UTC
DTSTART:20250101T000000
END:STANDARD
END:VTIMEZONE
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260425
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260426
DTSTAMP:20260731T153010
CREATED:20250310T193104Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260422T142347Z
UID:10001399-1777075200-1777161599@grandfather.com
SUMMARY:Sounds of Nature - Kids' Music Day
DESCRIPTION: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. \nThis event may be moved inside the Wilson Center in the event of poor weather. \nDuring the entire event\, guests are welcome to visit the activity tables around the space\, with crafts\, a nature touch table\, special guests and more! \nSounds of Nature – Kids’ Music Day Schedule: \n\n1 p.m.: Storytelling and music from the band Acoustic Folklore\n1 – 2:30 p.m.: Ambassador animal tables\n1 – 3 p.m.: Craft and interpretive tables\n3 p.m.: Closing
URL:https://grandfather.com/event/sounds-of-nature-kids-music-day/
LOCATION:Grandfather Mountain\, 2050 Blowing Rock Highway\, Linville\, NC\, 28646\, United States
CATEGORIES:Featured Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandfather.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Williams-Outdoor-Learning-Space-1-e1741634842293.jpg
GEO:36.0850742;-81.8462718
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Grandfather Mountain 2050 Blowing Rock Highway Linville NC 28646 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=2050 Blowing Rock Highway:geo:-81.8462718,36.0850742
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250510T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250510T160000
DTSTAMP:20260731T153010
CREATED:20250305T143623Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250519T161024Z
UID:10001398-1746871200-1746892800@grandfather.com
SUMMARY:Adult Field Course: Landscape Potential: Approaches to Ecological Landscape Design
DESCRIPTION: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. \nPreston will present principles of ecological landscape design he applies in his practice as a professional landscape architect. Participants will learn about the ecosystem services they may design into their outdoor spaces that will boost resources for pollinating insects\, birds and other wildlife. Preston will provide training on planting design that draws from both principles of fine art\, as well as landscape ecology. Participants are encouraged to bring some of their most pressing landscape challenges and aspirations (via photos) to the workshop for Preston to consider. \n \nPreston Montague is an artist\, educator and landscape architect who developed a passion for the natural world while growing up in the rural foothills of Virginia. He works in Durham\, N.C.\, focusing on projects that spark curiosity about nature and encourage stronger relationships between people and their environment. Montague’s latest body of work\, “Codex Carolinum\,” is a series of didactic botanical illustrations using art and storytelling to foster natural science literacy\, which can be viewed on this website: www.prestonmontague.com. \nProgram Itinerary\n10:00am – 4:00pm: Presentation and workshop in the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery with lunch break around noon \nTickets\nThis event costs $60 for general admission and $51 for members of Grandfather Mountain’s Bridge Club – plus tax. Registration opens on this page on March 10\, at 10 a.m. Limited to 10 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. \nWhat’s included?\nYour program cost includes admission into the park\, field instruction and transportation during your program. It does not include meals or lodging. Bringing a bagged lunch is recommended for most field courses. Mildred’s Grill will be open for participants to purchase lunch if they choose to do so. \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\nThe course will be indoors\, though participants should be prepared for a brief walk outside. \nEquipment: \nDaypack with enough room to carry extra clothing\, water\, lunch\, camera\, etc. \n\nWater Bottle\nSunglasses\nSunscreen\n\n\nEquipment Specific to this Course: \n\nPhotos of project area as outlined above\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. \nLearn more about the adult field course series.
URL:https://grandfather.com/event/adult-field-course-landscape-potential-approaches-to-ecological-landscape-design/
LOCATION:Grandfather Mountain\, 2050 Blowing Rock Highway\, Linville\, NC\, 28646\, United States
CATEGORIES:Adult Field Courses,Featured Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandfather.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Montague-design-1-e1741111740705.jpg
GEO:36.0850742;-81.8462718
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Grandfather Mountain 2050 Blowing Rock Highway Linville NC 28646 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=2050 Blowing Rock Highway:geo:-81.8462718,36.0850742
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251121T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251121T120000
DTSTAMP:20260731T153010
CREATED:20241106T152356Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250904T145830Z
UID:10000620-1763722800-1763726400@grandfather.com
SUMMARY:Holiday Tree Arrival
DESCRIPTION:In addition to seeing Grandfather’s mascot\, Millie the Bear\, escort this year’s holiday tree through the Entrance Gate and up the park road to the Wilson Center\, visitors can also take part in snowflake-themed crafts while enjoying hot chocolate and candy canes. \nThe hour-long event begins at 11 a.m. and is included with park admission. The tree\, which will be harvested on Thursday\, Nov. 20\, is from Mountain Top Fraser Fir farm in Newland\, N.C. Owner Larry Smith has previously supplied trees to the White House\, North Carolina State Capitol and other prominent government buildings and residences. \nThe full schedule for the celebration is below. \n\n11 a.m. | Millie the Bear escorts the tree through the Grandfather Mountain Entrance Gate. Guests are welcome to park at an overlook or parking lot along the road to wave to Millie as she and the tree make their way up to the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery!\n11 a.m. – 12 p.m. | Hot Chocolate and Candy Cane Bar and Snowflake Craft Table open at the Wilson Center.\n11:10 a.m. | Millie and the tree arrive at the Wilson Center. (Guests are also invited to help welcome Millie and the tree at this location!)\n11:10 a.m. | Tree is carried into the Wilson Center.\n11:15 – 11:30 a.m. | Millie is available to “meet and greet” guests!
URL:https://grandfather.com/event/holiday-tree-arrival/
LOCATION:Grandfather Mountain\, 2050 Blowing Rock Highway\, Linville\, NC\, 28646\, United States
CATEGORIES:Featured Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandfather.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/112124_HolidayTreeArrival_ET-7388-e1756997897462.jpg
GEO:36.0850742;-81.8462718
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Grandfather Mountain 2050 Blowing Rock Highway Linville NC 28646 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=2050 Blowing Rock Highway:geo:-81.8462718,36.0850742
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240727T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240727T153000
DTSTAMP:20260731T153010
CREATED:20240705T152740Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240722T145904Z
UID:10000618-1722074400-1722094200@grandfather.com
SUMMARY:First in Flight – Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the First Hang Glider Flight at Grandfather Mountain
DESCRIPTION: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. Flying a kite in MacRae Meadows between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. does not require a ticket to the park. \nEvent Schedule:\nAll Day | “Hang Gliding at Grandfather” Photo Gallery | Outside the Classroom in the Clouds in the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery\nEnjoy historical images from hang gliding events at Grandfather Mountain from the Hugh Morton Collection of Films and Photographs at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. \n10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. | Hang Gliding Films Showing | Leonard and Morton Classrooms in the Wilson Center\nStop in to enjoy a rotation of hang gliding films shot and produced by Grandfather Mountain founder Hugh Morton. \n10 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. | Gliders on Display | Various locations in the park\nKitty Hawk Kites will have colorful gliders on display at various spots along the park road. While the majority of the aircrafts will not be accessible for guests to get close to\, a ground-mounted glider will be set up near the Williams Outdoor Learning Space\, located next to the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery. Guests will be able to strap into the glider to get a feel for how to move around in the apparatus. Please note: There will be no actual hang glider flights from the mountain during this celebration. \n10 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. | Build-a-Kite Station | Second floor of the Top Shop\nBuild and design a kite fit for a mile-high view with kits from Kitty Hawk Kites! As supplies last\, each child coming through the Grandfather Mountain entrance gate will receive a free paper kite kit. Those guests should go to the Top Shop during the event to build the kite and decorate it. \n10 a.m. – 12 p.m. | Let’s Go Fly a Kite! | Top Shop parking lot (designated kite area)\nGuests will be allowed to fly their paper kites from this designated area located near the Mile High Swinging Bridge (weather permitting). (Flying any kites\, other than the paper kites made at the event\, is prohibited inside the park.) \n10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Fly a Kite in MacRae Meadows | Located just south of the gates of Grandfather Mountain on U.S. 221\nMacRae Meadows will be open to foot traffic during the day’s celebration for kite flying! Bringing a personal kite to fly at MacRae Meadows is permitted for this event. (No Grandfather Mountain admission is required for this activity. Please park in the gravel lot across 221 and walk across the road. Blocking the gates into MacRae Meadows is prohibited.) \n11 – 11:30 a.m. | Random Acts of Science | Wilson Center for Nature Discovery\nThis daily program led by Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation (GMSF) staff educators will make thematic ties to the day’s celebration\, such as the science behind thermals\, animals that take advantage of Grandfather’s cliffs and the weather the mountain creates. \n11:45 a.m. – 12 p.m. | Most-Creative Kite Contest Award | Top Shop parking lot (designated kite area)\nRepresentatives from GMSF and Kitty Hawk Kites will pick their favorite kite designs. Three winners will be selected and will receive a gift basket with items from the two organizations. \n12 – 12:30 p.m. | Random Acts of Science | Wilson Center for Nature Discovery\nThis daily program led by GMSF staff educators will make thematic ties to the day’s celebration\, such as the science behind thermals\, animals that take advantage of Grandfather’s cliffs and the weather the mountain creates. \n1 – 1:30 p.m. | Peaks and Profiles | Near the Mile High Swinging Bridge \nThis daily program led by GMSF staff educators gets a first-flight twist and will include themes like the science behind why Grandfather Mountain was a good place to hang glide. A representative from Kitty Hawk Kites will also be around to answer questions about hang gliding. \n1 – 2 p.m. | “Grandfather’s First Flight” Panel Discussion | Leonard and Morton Classrooms in the Wilson Center\nA walk down memory lane to the time of the first flight and other hang gliding events at Grandfather Mountain. Panel to include: \n\nJohn Harris (first flight hang gliding pilot at Grandfather Mountain and founder of Kitty Hawk Kites)\nCatherine Morton (GMSF board member and daughter of Grandfather Mountain founder Hugh Morton)\nHarris Prevost (Grandfather Mountain former vice president)\n\n2 – 2:30 p.m. | Anniversary Cake | Leonard and Morton Classrooms in the Wilson Center\nAfter the panel discussion\, celebrate the 50th anniversary of the first flight with a slice of cake (while supplies last). Panel participants will be on hand to interact with attendees. (Rain location: Wilson Center lobby) \n2 – 2:30 p.m. | Random Acts of Science | Wilson Center for Nature Discovery\nThis daily program led by GMSF staff educators will make thematic ties to the day’s celebration\, such as the science behind thermals\, animals that take advantage of Grandfather’s cliffs and the weather the mountain creates. \n3 – 3:30 p.m. | Peaks and Profiles With John Harris | Near the Mile High Swinging Bridge \nThis daily program led by GMSF staff educators gets a first-flight twist and will include themes like the science behind why Grandfather Mountain was a good place to hang glide. John Harris will join the program to share his firsthand account of flying off the peak.
URL:https://grandfather.com/event/first-in-flight/
CATEGORIES:Featured Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandfather.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/John-Harris_GM_Photo-by-Hugh-Morton_web.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240815T164500
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240815T194500
DTSTAMP:20260731T153010
CREATED:20240527T135719Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240626T193414Z
UID:10000616-1723740300-1723751100@grandfather.com
SUMMARY:Grandfather Presents: Dale Hall
DESCRIPTION: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 high-profile environmental issue in America. A fisheries and wetlands biologist by training\, Hall spent significant time working on the Clean Water Act and the Endangered Species Act. In his last three and a half years with the FWS\, he was nominated by President George W. Bush and confirmed by the U.S. Senate to be Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. \nFollowing retirement from federal service\, Hall was CEO of Ducks Unlimited Inc. for over nine years. During that time\, more than $2.5 billion was raised and more than 2 million acres of wetlands\, grasslands and waterfowl habitat were conserved. He is the author of numerous scientific articles and two books: “Compelled” and “My Appalachian Trail.” \nDale resides with his wife of 48 years\, Sarah\, in Tennessee. They have two daughters\, a son and three grandchildren. \nGrandfather Presents Schedule \n\n8 a.m. for June\, July and August events\, 9 a.m. for September event | Grandfather Mountain opens for the day\, and “VIP Reception” ticket holders are allowed access to the park. New this year\, 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. New this year\, 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\n\n(limited quantity available) \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\nTickets for this event go on sale here June 25 at 10 a.m. \nBridge Club Members\, click here to purchase “Presentation” tickets or “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 “Presentation” tickets or “VIP Reception” tickets. \nRefunds/Cancellations\nFull 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 – Friday between 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. \nFill your summer with learning and exploration: See our “Grandfather Presents” Reading List.  \nLearn more about our 2024 Grandfather Presents speaker series. 
URL:https://grandfather.com/event/grandfather-presents-dale-hall/
CATEGORIES:Featured Events,Grandfather Presents
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://grandfather.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Dale-Hall-Website-Photo-Resize.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240725T164500
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240725T194500
DTSTAMP:20260731T153010
CREATED:20240527T133737Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240724T164125Z
UID:10000615-1721925900-1721936700@grandfather.com
SUMMARY:Grandfather Presents: Richard Louv
DESCRIPTION: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 in 24 countries and helped launch an international movement to connect children\, families and communities with nature. He is the co-founder and chair emeritus of the Children & Nature Network\, an organization focused on the connection between the well-being of children and wild places and the effort to increase safe and equitable access to the natural world for all. \nLouv appears frequently on national radio and television programs\, including “The Today Show\,” “CBS Evening News” and NPR’s “Fresh Air.” He speaks internationally on nature-deficit disorder\, a concept he first introduced in “Last Child in the Woods\,” regarding the importance of children’s and adults’ exposure to nature for their health and on the need for environmental protection and preservation for greater access to nature and the health of the Earth. \nHe is a recipient of many awards\, including the national Audubon Medal\, the San Diego Zoological Society Conservation Medal\, the George B. Rabb Conservation Medal from the Chicago Zoological Society and the Cox Award\, Clemson University’s highest honor for “sustained achievement in public service.” \nAs a journalist and commentator\, Louv has written for The New York Times\, The Washington Post\, The Times of London\, Orion\, Outside Magazine and other newspapers and magazines. He is a columnist for The San Diego Union-Tribune and Parents magazine. \nMarried to his wife Kathy\, he is the father of two sons\, Jason and Matthew. He would rather hike than write. \nGrandfather Presents Schedule \n\n8 a.m. for June\, July and August events\, 9 a.m. for September event | Grandfather Mountain opens for the day\, and “VIP Reception” ticket holders are allowed access to the park. New this year\, 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. New this year\, 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\n\n(limited quantity available) \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\nTickets for this event go on sale here June 4 at 10 a.m.\, and you can use the links belot to purchase at that time. \nBridge Club Members\, click here to purchase “Presentation” tickets or “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 “Presentation” tickets or “VIP Reception” tickets. \nRefunds/Cancellations\nFull 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 – Friday between 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. \nFill your summer with learning and exploration: See our “Grandfather Presents” Reading List.  \nLearn more about our 2024 Grandfather Presents speaker series. 
URL:https://grandfather.com/event/grandfather-presents-richard-louv/
CATEGORIES:Featured Events,Grandfather Presents
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://grandfather.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Richard-Louv-Website-Photo-Resize.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240627T164500
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240627T194500
DTSTAMP:20260731T153010
CREATED:20240524T160133Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240626T193146Z
UID:10000614-1719506700-1719517500@grandfather.com
SUMMARY:Grandfather Presents: Jeremy Wade
DESCRIPTION:This event is SOLD OUT\, and the waiting lists for “VIP Reception” and “Presentation” tickets are both full. \nAs 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 20s of a magazine article about a fish in India\, the mahseer\, a giant golden-scaled carp that lives in thunderous rocky rivers\, rekindled his passion. He dusted down his fishing rods and set off with £200 in his pocket to follow his dreams. Decades later\, the rest\, as they say\, is history. \nWade was the presenter of the worldwide hit television series\, “River Monsters.” His book of the same name (Orion\, 2012) delivers a sometimes jaw-dropping blend of adventure\, natural history\, legend and detective work. It reads like a hunt for the Loch Ness Monster\, but it’s all true! His book “How to Think Like a Fish” (W&N\, 2019) teaches the reader how to improve their own fishing skills. Sparse on the details of technique\, it is about the simple\, fundamental principles – a mindset for success. It’s part science\, part art and part elusive something else. \n“We are excited to kick off this year’s Grandfather Presents speaker series with Jeremy Wade\,” said Landis Taylor\, vice president of marketing and communications for the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation. “He’s\, of course\, known for his adventures to some of the most remote corners of the world to find some of the most unique species of fish\, and he’ll couple those stories with a call to action. Throughout his lifetime\, he’s witnessed the changes happening to the planet’s water ecosystems and the importance of\, and connection between\, water quality and the health and well-being of humans.” \nWade’s program will be presented in the style of a “fireside chat” for a more casual feel\, with a moderator asking questions and directing the conversation. There will also be time for members of the audience to ask questions. \nThe moderator for this event will be Elizabeth Biser\, Secretary of the N.C. Department of Environmental Quality. As DEQ Secretary\, she oversees the state agency whose mission is to protect North Carolina’s environment and natural resources. The organization has offices from the mountains to the coast and administers regulatory and public assistance programs aimed at protecting the quality of North Carolina’s air\, water and land\, its coastal resources and marine fisheries\, and the public’s health. \nCopies of Wade’s books\, “River Monsters” and “How to Think Like a Fish\,” will be on sale at Grandfather Mountain’s Wilson Center gift shop prior to the event and on June 27 during Grandfather Presents\, as supplies last. A summer reading list for the speaker series is coming soon! \nGrandfather Presents Schedule \n\n8 a.m. for June\, July and August events\, 9 a.m. for September event | Grandfather Mountain opens for the day\, and “VIP Reception” ticket holders are allowed access to the park. New this year\, 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. New this year\, 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\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\n\n(limited quantity available) \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\nRefunds/Cancellations\nFull 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 – Friday between 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. \nFill your summer with learning and exploration: See our “Grandfather Presents” Reading List.  \nLearn more about our 2024 Grandfather Presents speaker series. 
URL:https://grandfather.com/event/grandfather-presents-jeremy-wade/
CATEGORIES:Featured Events,Grandfather Presents
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://grandfather.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Jeremy-Wade-Website-Photo.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240824T053000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240824T113000
DTSTAMP:20260731T153010
CREATED:20240419T175705Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240705T160744Z
UID:10000613-1724477400-1724499000@grandfather.com
SUMMARY:Field Course: Sunrise at Grandfather Mountain: Landscape Photography Course
DESCRIPTION: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. \nTodd Bush is a photographer based in Banner Elk\, N.C. Todd has specialized in making images of and for the N.C. High Country with photographs widely published including in: National Geographic Adventure\, Time\, USA Today and many other international\, national and regional publications. He has authored two pictorial High Country coffee table books and also teaches photography. Bush’s hopes are that photography may serve to raise awareness of the wonders of the world\, inspiring keeping our planet’s natural places intact for future generations. His photos are on display at Banner Elk Artists Gallery and on his website:  www.bushphoto.com. \nProgram Itinerary\n5:30 a.m.  Meet at the Wilson Center for Class Intro: Adjusting Focus and Exposure for Sunrises\n6:15 a.m. Head up to Swinging Bridge Parking Lot for 6:53 a.m. sunrise from the Bridge\n10:00 a.m. Wilson Center presentation and image review of your photos from the morning\n11:30 a.m. Program concludes at the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery \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 breakfast is recommended for this field course\, although Mildred’s Grill will be open to attendees beginning at 9:00 a.m. Tips are not accepted for field courses. However\, donations to the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation are accepted if you would like to recognize a program. \nTickets\nThis event costs $60 for general admission and $51 for members of Grandfather Mountain’s Bridge Club – plus tax. Registration opens below on July 9\, 2024\, 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. \nGeneral Clothing List\nMuch of your time will be spent outdoors and all programs are held rain\, snow 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 (or Camera bag/Pack) for extra clothing\, water\, snacks\, etc.\nWater Bottle\nSunglasses\nSunscreen\nHiking boots\n\nEquipment Specific to this Course: \n\nCamera: DSLR\, Mirrorless\, Point and Shoot\, or Phone Camera\nTripod\nMemory card\, card reader\, or cable to get your images to the classroom computer via USB\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\, a full refund will be granted within a five-day notice of the day of the field course. This allows time for individuals on the waiting list to make accommodations to attend the event. We 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/field-course-sunrise-at-grandfather-mountain-landscape-photography-course/
CATEGORIES:Featured Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandfather.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/sunrise-todd-bush2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240727T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240727T160000
DTSTAMP:20260731T153010
CREATED:20240419T174745Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240711T182215Z
UID:10000612-1722074400-1722096000@grandfather.com
SUMMARY:Field Course: Southern Appalachian Sky Islands
DESCRIPTION: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 Island of Grandfather Mountain and discuss the similarities and differences from its neighboring Sky Islands in the region. \nGary Kauffman is a Botanist and Plant Ecologist for the United States Forest Service based in Asheville\, N.C. He is responsible for managing the botany program across 1.1 million acres across four North Carolina USFS units from the mountains (Nantahala and Pisgah)\, the piedmont (Uwharrie)\, and the coastal plain (Croatan). His work includes forest level planning\, maintenance and restoration of rare plants and communities and non-native invasive plant management. \nProgram Itinerary\n10:00 – 10:15 – Meet at the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery and Introductions\n10:15 – 12:00 – Classroom lecture on Southern Appalachian Sky Islands\n12:00 – 12:30 – Lunch at Wilson Center\n12:00 – 3:30 – Exploring the Grandfather Mountain Sky Island\n3:30 – 4:00 – Wrap up/Q&A/Evaluations \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. Tips are not accepted for field courses. However\, donations to the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation are accepted if you would like to recognize a program. \nTickets\nThis event costs $60 for general admission and $51 for members of Grandfather Mountain’s Bridge Club – plus tax. Registration opens here on June 11\, 2024\, at 10 a.m. Limited to 20 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. \nGeneral Clothing List\nMuch of your time will be spent outdoors and all programs are held rain\, snow 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\n\n\nDaypack with enough room to carry extra clothing\, water\, lunch\, camera\, etc.\nWater Bottle\nSunglasses\nSunscreen\nHiking boots\n\n\n\nEquipment Specific to this Course: \n\n\n\n\n\nNote pad and writing utensil\nLong pants and preferably long-sleeved shirts are strongly encouraged as we will be walking through the woods. \nSturdy hiking boots or closed-toed shoes are required\n\n\n\n\n\n Refunds/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\, a full refund will be granted within a five-day notice of the day of the field course. This allows time for individuals on the waiting list to make accommodations to attend the event. We 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/field-course-southern-appalachian-sky-islands/
CATEGORIES:Featured Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandfather.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/GaryKauffman_fromCharlesWorley.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240615T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240615T160000
DTSTAMP:20260731T153010
CREATED:20240415T140506Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240503T185951Z
UID:10000610-1718445600-1718467200@grandfather.com
SUMMARY:Field Course: Forest Insects Are for the Birds: The Caterpillars Count! Monitoring Program
DESCRIPTION:Join Dr. Allen Hurlbert from UNC-Chapel Hill as we learn about the important role that insects play in forest ecosystems\, as herbivores and as a critical food source for migratory birds. You will learn how to identify the most common groups of forest insects\, how to conduct simple insect surveys and you will participate in the insect monitoring being done at Grandfather Mountain along a nearly 1\,000-foot elevational gradient from the park entrance to the summit. We will discuss evidence for insect declines and the impacts of global change\, and you will learn how to contribute to the Caterpillars Count! citizen-science project and share critical data from your own yard or local park. \n \nAllen Hurlbert is a Professor of Biology and the Director of Graduate Studies for the Environment\, Ecology and Energy Program at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill. His research seeks to understand the drivers of large-scale patterns of organismal diversity and distribution and how those patterns are being impacted by global change. His work often makes use of large citizen-science observations such as eBird and iNaturalist\, and Hurlbert is the founder of the foliage arthropod monitoring project Caterpillars Count!\, which has been implemented in over 30 states and provinces across North America. \nProgram Itinerary\n10:00 – 10:15 – Meet at the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery and Introductions\n10:15 – 11:00 – Why Monitor Forest Insects?\n11:00 – 11:30 – Identifying Common Forest Insects\n11:30 – 12:30 – How to Monitor Forest Insects (Training and Survey Circles 5-6)\n12:30 – 1:00 – Lunch at Wilson Center\n1:00 – 2:30 – Monitoring Grandfather Mountain (Group 1: Circles 1-4\, Group 2: Circles 7-10)\n2:30 – 3:30 – Lessons learned from Caterpillars Count!\n3:30 – 4:00 – Wrap up/Q&A/Evaluations \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. Tips are not accepted for field courses. However\, donations to the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation are accepted if you would like to recognize a program. \nTickets\nThis event costs $60 for general admission and $51 for members of Grandfather Mountain’s Bridge Club – plus tax. Registration opens below on April 30\, 2024\, at 10 a.m. Limited to 20 participants. \nGeneral Clothing List\nMuch of your time will be spent outdoors and all programs are held rain\, snow 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 boots\n\nEquipment Specific to this Course: \n\nNote pad and writing utensil\nLong pants and preferably long-sleeved shirts are strongly encouraged as we will be walking through the woods.\nSturdy hiking boots or closed-toed shoes are required\n(Optional) Caterpillars Count! mobile app (available for iOS and Android)\nOther data gathering instruments will be provided\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\, a full refund will be granted within a five-day notice of the day of the field course. This allows time for individuals on the waiting list to make accommodations to attend the event. We 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/field-course-forest-insects-are-for-the-birds-the-caterpillars-count-monitoring-program/
CATEGORIES:Featured Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://grandfather.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/oakworm_caterpillars_beatsheet_background-websize.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240719T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240719T160000
DTSTAMP:20260731T153010
CREATED:20240223T181642Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240603T151058Z
UID:10000606-1721383200-1721404800@grandfather.com
SUMMARY:Educator Workshop: Growing Up WILD
DESCRIPTION:NOTE: This Educator Workshop is intended specifically for educators — not the general public. \nGrowing 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 activities and experiences\, Growing Up WILD provides an early foundation for developing positive impressions about nature and lifelong social and academic skills. This workshop is oriented towards formal and nonformal educators who work with children ages 3-7. Participants trained in Growing Up WILD will receive a free Growing Up WILD activity guide and qualify for CEU credits\, training hours\, or NC Environmental Education Certification credits. \nInstructors: Tanya Poole (N.C. Wildlife Resource Commission Outreach Education Specialist) and Michelle Malalang (GMSF Education Specialist) \nRegistration\nThis workshop is free to attend\, although advance registration is required. Limited to 25 participants. Registration below on June 3 at 10 a.m.. Attendees are also asked to bring their own lunch\, although there is a restaurant on site. \nTickets are now open for this event. Click here to register. \nWhat to Bring?\nYour time will be spent indoors and outdoors and all programs are held rain\, snow or shine. You should be prepared for a variety of mountain weather conditions and temperatures. Appropriate clothing\, equipment\, and footwear are very important. Please bring a daypack with enough room to carry extra clothing (i.e.\, extra layers\, rain gear)\, water\, lunch\, notepad/paper\, pen/pencil\, etc. Mildred’s Grill will be open and participants may purchase food from the restaurant for lunch if they prefer to do so. \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. \nCancelations\nIf you cannot attend the educator workshop that you are registered for\, please let us know five days in advance of the workshop if at all possible: call 828-733-2013 Monday-Friday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. \nAbout Grandfather Mountain Educator Workshops\nGrandfather Mountain’s Educator Workshop series invites educators to take advantage of the mountain’s classroom in the clouds. This is an opportunity to learn and have fun\, while earning certification as an environmental educator in North Carolina. These programs offer credits with Criteria I\, II and III programs. All workshops take place at Grandfather Mountain and may include some walking\, so participants are encouraged to bring appropriate footwear and be prepared for inclement weather. Learn more.
URL:https://grandfather.com/event/growing-up-wild/
LOCATION:Grandfather Mountain\, 2050 Blowing Rock Highway\, Linville\, NC\, 28646\, United States
CATEGORIES:Certification Programs,Featured Events,RSVP
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandfather.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/educator-workshop2.jpg
GEO:36.0850742;-81.8462718
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Grandfather Mountain 2050 Blowing Rock Highway Linville NC 28646 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=2050 Blowing Rock Highway:geo:-81.8462718,36.0850742
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260626T200000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260626T220000
DTSTAMP:20260731T153010
CREATED:20240223T175005Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260521T190419Z
UID:10000605-1782504000-1782511200@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 8 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 April 20\, 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-night7/
CATEGORIES:After Hours Programs,Featured Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandfather.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/grandfather-by-night1-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260612T200000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260612T220000
DTSTAMP:20260731T153010
CREATED:20240223T174617Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260518T190118Z
UID:10000603-1781294400-1781301600@grandfather.com
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 7:30 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 April 13\, 2026\, at 10 a.m. \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-night2/
CATEGORIES:After Hours Programs,Featured Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandfather.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/grandfather-by-night2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240408T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240408T153000
DTSTAMP:20260731T153010
CREATED:20240220T154909Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240405T165200Z
UID:10000601-1712574000-1712590200@grandfather.com
SUMMARY:Solar Eclipse
DESCRIPTION:A total solar eclipse\, one of nature’s most spectacular sights\, is coming to North America on April 8. Weather permitting; a partial eclipse will be visible at Grandfather Mountain. According to sources\, approximately 87% of the sun will be obscured in this region. The best viewing time will be between 2-4 p.m. \nAll Daily Programs (other than Keeper Talks) on April 8 will make thematic ties to solar and lunar eclipses. Daily Programs are included with park admission. \nIn addition\, a designated area to enjoy the eclipse will be set up. The location of this area will be determined the day of the event\, taking wind and other factors into consideration. Chairs will be welcome at this location. Chairs will not be allowed on Linville Peak. \nSolar eclipse glasses will be needed to view the event. The first 100 guests on April 8 will receive a pair of solar eclipse glasses for free with their admission. The glasses will also be on sale in the mountain’s gift shops that day. \nWhat is a Solar Eclipse?\nA solar eclipse happens when the moon passes between the sun and Earth\, casting a shadow on Earth that either fully or partially blocks the sun’s light in some area. A total solar eclipse is when the moon completely blocks the face of the sun. The sky will darken\, as if it were dawn or dusk.
URL:https://grandfather.com/event/solar-eclipse/
LOCATION:Grandfather Mountain\, 2050 Blowing Rock Highway\, Linville\, NC\, 28646\, United States
CATEGORIES:Featured Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandfather.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/SolarEclipseGrandfather.jpg
GEO:36.0850742;-81.8462718
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Grandfather Mountain 2050 Blowing Rock Highway Linville NC 28646 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=2050 Blowing Rock Highway:geo:-81.8462718,36.0850742
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260523T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260523T133000
DTSTAMP:20260731T153010
CREATED:20240220T145934Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260210T172900Z
UID:10001428-1779541200-1779543000@grandfather.com
SUMMARY:Rhododendron Ramble
DESCRIPTION: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. Meet outside the entrance of the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery. Staff naturalists will also have a display inside Wilson Center. Read more about our species of rhododendron.
URL:https://grandfather.com/event/rhodo-ramble-2/2026-05-23/
LOCATION:Grandfather Mountain\, 2050 Blowing Rock Highway\, Linville\, NC\, 28646\, United States
CATEGORIES:Featured Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandfather.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/rhodo-ramble.jpg
GEO:36.0850742;-81.8462718
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Grandfather Mountain 2050 Blowing Rock Highway Linville NC 28646 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=2050 Blowing Rock Highway:geo:-81.8462718,36.0850742
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260524T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260524T133000
DTSTAMP:20260731T153010
CREATED:20240220T145934Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260210T172900Z
UID:10001429-1779627600-1779629400@grandfather.com
SUMMARY:Rhododendron Ramble
DESCRIPTION: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. Meet outside the entrance of the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery. Staff naturalists will also have a display inside Wilson Center. Read more about our species of rhododendron.
URL:https://grandfather.com/event/rhodo-ramble-2/2026-05-24/
LOCATION:Grandfather Mountain\, 2050 Blowing Rock Highway\, Linville\, NC\, 28646\, United States
CATEGORIES:Featured Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandfather.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/rhodo-ramble.jpg
GEO:36.0850742;-81.8462718
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Grandfather Mountain 2050 Blowing Rock Highway Linville NC 28646 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=2050 Blowing Rock Highway:geo:-81.8462718,36.0850742
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260525T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260525T133000
DTSTAMP:20260731T153010
CREATED:20240220T145934Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260210T172900Z
UID:10001430-1779714000-1779715800@grandfather.com
SUMMARY:Rhododendron Ramble
DESCRIPTION: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. Meet outside the entrance of the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery. Staff naturalists will also have a display inside Wilson Center. Read more about our species of rhododendron.
URL:https://grandfather.com/event/rhodo-ramble-2/2026-05-25/
LOCATION:Grandfather Mountain\, 2050 Blowing Rock Highway\, Linville\, NC\, 28646\, United States
CATEGORIES:Featured Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandfather.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/rhodo-ramble.jpg
GEO:36.0850742;-81.8462718
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Grandfather Mountain 2050 Blowing Rock Highway Linville NC 28646 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=2050 Blowing Rock Highway:geo:-81.8462718,36.0850742
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260526T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260526T133000
DTSTAMP:20260731T153010
CREATED:20240220T145934Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260210T172900Z
UID:10001431-1779800400-1779802200@grandfather.com
SUMMARY:Rhododendron Ramble
DESCRIPTION: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. Meet outside the entrance of the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery. Staff naturalists will also have a display inside Wilson Center. Read more about our species of rhododendron.
URL:https://grandfather.com/event/rhodo-ramble-2/2026-05-26/
LOCATION:Grandfather Mountain\, 2050 Blowing Rock Highway\, Linville\, NC\, 28646\, United States
CATEGORIES:Featured Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandfather.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/rhodo-ramble.jpg
GEO:36.0850742;-81.8462718
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Grandfather Mountain 2050 Blowing Rock Highway Linville NC 28646 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=2050 Blowing Rock Highway:geo:-81.8462718,36.0850742
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260527T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260527T133000
DTSTAMP:20260731T153010
CREATED:20240220T145934Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260210T172900Z
UID:10001432-1779886800-1779888600@grandfather.com
SUMMARY:Rhododendron Ramble
DESCRIPTION: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. Meet outside the entrance of the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery. Staff naturalists will also have a display inside Wilson Center. Read more about our species of rhododendron.
URL:https://grandfather.com/event/rhodo-ramble-2/2026-05-27/
LOCATION:Grandfather Mountain\, 2050 Blowing Rock Highway\, Linville\, NC\, 28646\, United States
CATEGORIES:Featured Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandfather.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/rhodo-ramble.jpg
GEO:36.0850742;-81.8462718
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Grandfather Mountain 2050 Blowing Rock Highway Linville NC 28646 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=2050 Blowing Rock Highway:geo:-81.8462718,36.0850742
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260528T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260528T133000
DTSTAMP:20260731T153010
CREATED:20240220T145934Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260210T172900Z
UID:10001433-1779973200-1779975000@grandfather.com
SUMMARY:Rhododendron Ramble
DESCRIPTION: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. Meet outside the entrance of the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery. Staff naturalists will also have a display inside Wilson Center. Read more about our species of rhododendron.
URL:https://grandfather.com/event/rhodo-ramble-2/2026-05-28/
LOCATION:Grandfather Mountain\, 2050 Blowing Rock Highway\, Linville\, NC\, 28646\, United States
CATEGORIES:Featured Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandfather.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/rhodo-ramble.jpg
GEO:36.0850742;-81.8462718
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Grandfather Mountain 2050 Blowing Rock Highway Linville NC 28646 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=2050 Blowing Rock Highway:geo:-81.8462718,36.0850742
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260529T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260529T133000
DTSTAMP:20260731T153010
CREATED:20240220T145934Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260210T172900Z
UID:10001434-1780059600-1780061400@grandfather.com
SUMMARY:Rhododendron Ramble
DESCRIPTION: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. Meet outside the entrance of the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery. Staff naturalists will also have a display inside Wilson Center. Read more about our species of rhododendron.
URL:https://grandfather.com/event/rhodo-ramble-2/2026-05-29/
LOCATION:Grandfather Mountain\, 2050 Blowing Rock Highway\, Linville\, NC\, 28646\, United States
CATEGORIES:Featured Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandfather.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/rhodo-ramble.jpg
GEO:36.0850742;-81.8462718
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Grandfather Mountain 2050 Blowing Rock Highway Linville NC 28646 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=2050 Blowing Rock Highway:geo:-81.8462718,36.0850742
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260530T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260530T133000
DTSTAMP:20260731T153010
CREATED:20240220T145934Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260210T172900Z
UID:10001435-1780146000-1780147800@grandfather.com
SUMMARY:Rhododendron Ramble
DESCRIPTION: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. Meet outside the entrance of the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery. Staff naturalists will also have a display inside Wilson Center. Read more about our species of rhododendron.
URL:https://grandfather.com/event/rhodo-ramble-2/2026-05-30/
LOCATION:Grandfather Mountain\, 2050 Blowing Rock Highway\, Linville\, NC\, 28646\, United States
CATEGORIES:Featured Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandfather.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/rhodo-ramble.jpg
GEO:36.0850742;-81.8462718
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Grandfather Mountain 2050 Blowing Rock Highway Linville NC 28646 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=2050 Blowing Rock Highway:geo:-81.8462718,36.0850742
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260531T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260531T133000
DTSTAMP:20260731T153010
CREATED:20240220T145934Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260210T172900Z
UID:10001380-1780232400-1780234200@grandfather.com
SUMMARY:Rhododendron Ramble
DESCRIPTION: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. Meet outside the entrance of the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery. Staff naturalists will also have a display inside Wilson Center. Read more about our species of rhododendron.
URL:https://grandfather.com/event/rhodo-ramble-2/2026-05-31/
LOCATION:Grandfather Mountain\, 2050 Blowing Rock Highway\, Linville\, NC\, 28646\, United States
CATEGORIES:Featured Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandfather.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/rhodo-ramble.jpg
GEO:36.0850742;-81.8462718
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Grandfather Mountain 2050 Blowing Rock Highway Linville NC 28646 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=2050 Blowing Rock Highway:geo:-81.8462718,36.0850742
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260529T200000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260529T220000
DTSTAMP:20260731T153010
CREATED:20230602T140926Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260514T182511Z
UID:10000198-1780084800-1780092000@grandfather.com
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 8 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 March 30\, 2026\, at 10 a.m. \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-1-2/
LOCATION:Grandfather Mountain\, 2050 Blowing Rock Highway\, Linville\, NC\, 28646\, United States
CATEGORIES:After Hours Programs,Featured Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandfather.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/grandfather-by-night2.jpg
GEO:36.0850742;-81.8462718
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Grandfather Mountain 2050 Blowing Rock Highway Linville NC 28646 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=2050 Blowing Rock Highway:geo:-81.8462718,36.0850742
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250530T200000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250530T220000
DTSTAMP:20260731T153010
CREATED:20230602T140429Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250519T161558Z
UID:10000196-1748635200-1748642400@grandfather.com
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 8 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 April 1\, 2025\, at 10 a.m. \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-1/
LOCATION:Grandfather Mountain\, 2050 Blowing Rock Highway\, Linville\, NC\, 28646\, United States
CATEGORIES:After Hours Programs,Featured Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandfather.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/grandfather-by-night2.jpg
GEO:36.0850742;-81.8462718
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Grandfather Mountain 2050 Blowing Rock Highway Linville NC 28646 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=2050 Blowing Rock Highway:geo:-81.8462718,36.0850742
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260605T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260607T150000
DTSTAMP:20260731T153010
CREATED:20230304T154501Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260522T173417Z
UID:10000176-1780646400-1780844400@grandfather.com
SUMMARY:Nature Photography Weekend
DESCRIPTION:Registration for this event is now closed. \nThis 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. \nThis popular weekend welcomes all levels of photographers\, making it fun and engaging no matter what your skill level is – while better connecting participants with the wonders and unique ecology of Grandfather Mountain. This year\, more than ever\, we hope to not only help participants learn about photography\, but to also inspire them to preserve the natural world. Activities begin Friday evening and conclude Sunday midday. \n2026 Speakers: Jennifer King\, John Mauser\, Jane Palmer and Tony Sweet  \n2026 Speaker Biographies | Speaker Presentations | 2026 Event Schedule | 2026 Field Courses \nEvent Ticket Costs\nParticipant Pass (includes contest) – Pass includes three-day admission to the park\, entry into the weekend’s contest\, the opportunity to camp at Woods Walk\, the Friday social\, the Saturday dinner\, speaker presentations and sunrise/sunset access: $175/person. Contest Rules & Requirements here.\nAttendee Pass (does not include contest) – Pass includes three-day admission to the park\, the opportunity to camp at Woods Walk\, the Friday social\, the Saturday dinner\, speaker presentations and sunrise/sunset access: $145/person \nRegistered NPW participants and attendees have access to purchase the following items for their guests. Guest passes are for individuals who are on the mountain the weekend of NPW with a registered participant or attendee but not attending or participating in the event themselves. These passes provide a discounted three-day admission pass\, as well as the opportunity to attend the Friday social and/or Saturday dinner. Guest passes do not include any of the speaker presentations or field courses.\nGuest Adult Pass (three-day admission to Grandfather) – $80\nGuest Child (ages 4-12) Pass (three-day admission to Grandfather) – $30\nGuest Pass to Friday Social – $15\nGuest Pass to Saturday Dinner – $20 \nField Courses\nField courses offered by the NPW speakers are special add-on opportunities for registered event attendees and participants. These courses are more hands-on workshops that allow event participants and attendees one-on-one instruction from a speaker. Group sizes are kept small. Field course spots are limited\, and attendance is not included in your event registration. There will be an additional cost of $10+tax per field course. \nAn email about field courses is going out to registered participants and attendees May 4.  Registered attendees and participants should submit their field course preferences to media@grandfather.com by Sunday\, May 13.\nField course spots will then be randomly drawn\, and “winners” will be able to purchase their “spot” before the actual event. Assignment emails with a link to purchase field course spots will go out May 20. An effort will be made to get all interested folks into at least one of their preferred field courses. After receiving an email May 20 with an assignment\, the window to purchase field course spots will be open until May 27. \nDon Nelson Award – Read More! \nCamping at Woods Walk\nThe opportunity to camp at the Woods Walk Picnic Area the Friday and Saturday nights of the event is extended to event participants\, attendees and registered guests. There is no additional cost for this. Tent and vehicle camping allowed\, only. A very (VERY) small bathroom is available in this area with toilets and water fountains. Other than some grills and fresh mountain air\, there are no other amenities. There are wild bears on the mountain\, and proper food storage protocol for camping must be practiced. \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-Friday\, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. \nRegistered participants & attendees may also purchase guest passes. Registration opens April 9 at 10 a.m. and closes June 4 at 12 p.m. or when the event sells out.
URL:https://grandfather.com/event/nature-photography-weekend/
LOCATION:Grandfather Mountain\, 2050 Blowing Rock Highway\, Linville\, NC\, 28646\, United States
CATEGORIES:Featured Events,Photography
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandfather.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/NPW.jpg
GEO:36.0850742;-81.8462718
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Grandfather Mountain 2050 Blowing Rock Highway Linville NC 28646 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=2050 Blowing Rock Highway:geo:-81.8462718,36.0850742
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240613T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240613T160000
DTSTAMP:20260731T153010
CREATED:20230208T203201Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260709T155559Z
UID:10000105-1718272800-1718294400@grandfather.com
SUMMARY:Educator Workshop - WILD About Bears
DESCRIPTION:NOTE: This Educator Workshop is intended specifically for educators — not the general public. \nWILD About Bears will focus on black bears in North Carolina. The workshop will be spent learning about the life history and current research on black bears\, as well as activities that can be incorporated into your programs. This special topic Project WILD will include a visit to our resident black bears that live in our Animal Habitats. Educators who attend a Project WILD workshop qualify for CEU credits\, training hours\, or NC Environmental Education Certification credit. \nInstructor: Lauren Farrell (GMSF Interpretation and Education Programs Manager) \nRegistration\nThis workshop is free to attend\, although advance registration is required. Limited to 25 participants. Registration opens below on April 29 at 10 a.m. Attendees are also asked to bring their own lunch\, although there is a restaurant on site. \nClick here to register for the event. \nWhat to Bring?\nYour time will be spent indoors and outdoors and all programs are held rain\, snow or shine. You should be prepared for a variety of mountain weather conditions and temperatures. Appropriate clothing\, equipment\, and footwear are very important. Please bring a daypack with enough room to carry extra clothing (i.e.\, extra layers\, rain gear)\, water\, lunch\, notepad/paper\, pen/pencil\, etc. Mildred’s Grill will be open and participants may purchase food from the restaurant for lunch if they prefer to do so. \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. \nCancelations\nIf you cannot attend the educator workshop that you are registered for\, please let us know five days in advance of the workshop if at all possible: call 828-733-2013 Monday-Friday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. \nAbout Grandfather Mountain Educator Workshops\nGrandfather Mountain’s Educator Workshop series invites educators to take advantage of the mountain’s classroom in the clouds. This is an opportunity to learn and have fun\, while earning certification as an environmental educator in North Carolina. These programs offer credits with Criteria I\, II and III programs. All workshops take place at Grandfather Mountain and may include some walking\, so participants are encouraged to bring appropriate footwear and be prepared for inclement weather. Learn more.
URL:https://grandfather.com/event/educator-workshop-wild/
LOCATION:Grandfather Mountain\, 2050 Blowing Rock Highway\, Linville\, NC\, 28646\, United States
CATEGORIES:Certification Programs,Featured Events,RSVP
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandfather.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/project-wild.jpg
GEO:36.0850742;-81.8462718
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Grandfather Mountain 2050 Blowing Rock Highway Linville NC 28646 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=2050 Blowing Rock Highway:geo:-81.8462718,36.0850742
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260612T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260613T140000
DTSTAMP:20260731T153010
CREATED:20230204T195615Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260403T150724Z
UID:10000112-1781258400-1781359200@grandfather.com
SUMMARY:Educator Workshop: Methods of Teaching Environmental Education
DESCRIPTION:NOTE: This Educator Workshop is intended specifically for educators — not the general public. \nThe 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 and instructional strategies; and the workshop will include multiple interactive components. This is a required workshop for all NC Environmental Education Certification candidates. This workshop may also count for Continuing Education for those educators who are already certified. \nJune 12: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (onsite at GMSF)\nJune 13: 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. (onsite at GMSF) \nThis workshop is free to attend\, although advance registration is required. Limited to 25 participants. Registration opens here April 13 at 10 a.m. Click here to register. \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. \nAbout Grandfather Mountain Educator Workshops\nGrandfather Mountain’s Educator Workshop series invites educators to take advantage of the mountain’s classroom in the clouds. This is an opportunity to learn and have fun\, while earning certification as an environmental educator in North Carolina. These programs offer credits with Criteria I\, II and III programs. All workshops take place at Grandfather Mountain and may include some walking\, so participants are encouraged to bring appropriate footwear and be prepared for inclement weather. Learn more about this year’s lineup.
URL:https://grandfather.com/event/educator-workshop-methods/
LOCATION:Grandfather Mountain\, 2050 Blowing Rock Highway\, Linville\, NC\, 28646\, United States
CATEGORIES:Certification Programs,Featured Events,RSVP
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandfather.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/classroom-methods.jpg
GEO:36.0850742;-81.8462718
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Grandfather Mountain 2050 Blowing Rock Highway Linville NC 28646 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=2050 Blowing Rock Highway:geo:-81.8462718,36.0850742
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250322T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251109T170000
DTSTAMP:20260731T153010
CREATED:20230120T130526Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250130T153219Z
UID:10000165-1742630400-1762707600@grandfather.com
SUMMARY:Daily Programs
DESCRIPTION: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.
URL:https://grandfather.com/event/daily-programs/
LOCATION:Grandfather Mountain\, 2050 Blowing Rock Highway\, Linville\, NC\, 28646\, United States
CATEGORIES:Featured Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandfather.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/daily-programsEvent.jpg
GEO:36.0850742;-81.8462718
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Grandfather Mountain 2050 Blowing Rock Highway Linville NC 28646 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=2050 Blowing Rock Highway:geo:-81.8462718,36.0850742
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260610
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260611
DTSTAMP:20260731T153010
CREATED:20230107T190216Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260526T163859Z
UID:10000100-1781049600-1781135999@grandfather.com
SUMMARY:Animal Birthday Party
DESCRIPTION: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 11 a.m. and continue until 3:30 p.m. Join for one activity or all. Included with admission. \nAnimal Birthday Party Schedule:\n11 a.m. – 12 p.m. | A Walk in the Woods game — Learn about nature through an interactive game. (in front of the Wilson Center)\n11 a.m. – 2 p.m. | Conservation Through Colors table — Half-price animal paintings will be sold\, with proceeds supporting the Amphibian and Reptile Conservancy. (Classroom in the Clouds)\n11 a.m. – 2:15 p.m. | Test Your Animal Knowledge Contest — contest drawing at 2:15 (Classroom in the Clouds)\n11 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. | Make a birthday card for the animals. (Classroom in the Clouds)\n11 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. | Games — Come play some fun animal games. (Classroom in the Clouds)\n1 – 1:30 p.m. | Animal Encounter — Come meet a few of our resident animals\, including snakes and a groundhog. (Classroom in the Clouds)\n1 – 1:30 p.m. | Bear Painting Tour — Join our habitat staff to see an animal painting created live. This experience is $10 per person and can be purchased at the Conservation Through Colors table in Classroom in the Clouds.\n1 – 2 p.m. | Birthday Critter Corner — Meet a few of our smaller animals. (Classroom in the Clouds)\n1 – 2 p.m. | Free birthday cake (Classroom in the Clouds)\n1:30 – 2 p.m. | Decorate Birthday Presents — Come help make birthday enrichments for the animals. (outside the Wilson Center)\n1:30 – 2:30 p.m. | Animal Olympics game (in front of the Wilson Center)\n2:15 p.m. | Contest Drawing — Winners will be announced at the Classroom in the Clouds. Contest winners get the rare opportunity to go behind the scenes to visit the animal they were knowledgeable about. Winners are allowed to take family members with them. Participants must be present to win.\n2:45 p.m. | Animal Birthday Party Parade — Follow our staff to the elk\, then otter\, then cougar and then bear overlooks to watch the special birthday enrichments be given.
URL:https://grandfather.com/event/animal-birthday-party/
LOCATION:Grandfather Mountain\, 2050 Blowing Rock Highway\, Linville\, NC\, 28646\, United States
CATEGORIES:Featured Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandfather.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/animal-birthday.jpg
GEO:36.0850742;-81.8462718
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Grandfather Mountain 2050 Blowing Rock Highway Linville NC 28646 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=2050 Blowing Rock Highway:geo:-81.8462718,36.0850742
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR