06/30/2025 UPDATE: Due to special events, the hiking trails will close at 5 p.m. July 2-3, as well as July 5. The last entry time into the park will be at 5:30 p.m. and the park will remain open until 7 p.m. We apologize for any inconvenience.

In addition, the Exhibit Hall in the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery will be closed Tuesday, July 1 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. for a filming project.

Purchasing advance tickets online is highly recommended. More info.

Things to Do

Welcome to Grandfather Mountain! Our nature park is home to amazing biodiversity and scenic beauty. From the Mile High Swinging Bridge to wildlife habitats, hands-on exhibits and hiking, find plenty to explore.

Daily Programs

Attend fascinating interpretive programs throughout the park, included in your admission. They are presented by our animal habitat curators and park educators on March 22–Nov. 9. Read more & see the schedule.

Events Calendar 2025

See our upcoming events in 2025 on the mountain for all ages! Most of them are included in your admission ticket. Check back as more events will be added. Go to the calendar.

Experiences

For an extra special VIP tour that you will long remember, add on one of our experiences that take you behind-the-scenes with our naturalists and wildlife experts. Advance reservations are recommended. Read more.

Grandfather Glows

Our annual Grandfather Glows events open our nature park for three nights during mid-June to mid-July, the forecasted peak times, for special bioluminescent evenings, weather and conditions permitting. Learn more.

Hiking Trails

Explore trails for all fitness levels on Grandfather Mountain. Our network of nature walks and trails take you through gentle forests or atop rugged peaks. See our trail guides here.