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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261010T130000
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CREATED:20250107T190941Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260210T174001Z
UID:10001807-1791637200-1791639000@grandfather.com
SUMMARY:Fall Color Ramble
DESCRIPTION:Guests enjoy short\, guided nature walks that highlight Grandfather Mountain’s fall colors. The Fall Color Rambles take place daily and are included in your admission ticket. The short excursions begin at 1 p.m. and typically last for 30 minutes. Rambles will start outside the entrance of the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery. Should it happen to be raining\, the event may be moved to the indoor exhibit hall in the Wilson Center. \nGrandfather Mountain is home to myriad species of plants and hardwood trees that range from pumpkin-colored beech trees to blood-red sourwoods and rusty red oaks. During the daily rambles\, guests learn all about the mountain’s unique biodiversity and the science behind the changing of the leaves. \nParticipants can become familiar with tree identification\, as the mountain’s talented and knowledgeable educators and interpretive park guides venture out with guests to some of the most colorful destinations on the mountain.
URL:https://grandfather.com/event/fall-color-ramble/2026-10-10/
LOCATION:Grandfather Mountain\, 2050 Blowing Rock Highway\, Linville\, NC\, 28646\, United States
CATEGORIES:Featured Events,Naturalist Programs
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261011T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261011T133000
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SUMMARY:Fall Color Ramble
DESCRIPTION:Guests enjoy short\, guided nature walks that highlight Grandfather Mountain’s fall colors. The Fall Color Rambles take place daily and are included in your admission ticket. The short excursions begin at 1 p.m. and typically last for 30 minutes. Rambles will start outside the entrance of the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery. Should it happen to be raining\, the event may be moved to the indoor exhibit hall in the Wilson Center. \nGrandfather Mountain is home to myriad species of plants and hardwood trees that range from pumpkin-colored beech trees to blood-red sourwoods and rusty red oaks. During the daily rambles\, guests learn all about the mountain’s unique biodiversity and the science behind the changing of the leaves. \nParticipants can become familiar with tree identification\, as the mountain’s talented and knowledgeable educators and interpretive park guides venture out with guests to some of the most colorful destinations on the mountain.
URL:https://grandfather.com/event/fall-color-ramble/2026-10-11/
LOCATION:Grandfather Mountain\, 2050 Blowing Rock Highway\, Linville\, NC\, 28646\, United States
CATEGORIES:Featured Events,Naturalist Programs
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DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260425
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260426
DTSTAMP:20260404T144817
CREATED:20250310T193104Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260403T182835Z
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\n3:00 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
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260601T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260601T160000
DTSTAMP:20260404T144817
CREATED:20250410T143407Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260401T140714Z
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SUMMARY:Educator Workshop: Project Learning Tree
DESCRIPTION:NOTE: This Educator Workshop is intended specifically for educators — not the general public. \nJoin Grandfather Mountain’s Interpretation and Education staff and Matt Robinson from the Town of Beech Mountain Parks and Recreation as we explore activities in the Project Learning Tree Explore Your Environment K-8 Activity Guide. This workshop is geared toward K-5th educators\, though all educators\, formal and nonformal\, are welcome. Every participant will leave the workshop with a copy of this guide that includes 50 hands-on\, multidisciplinary activities to connect children to nature and increase young people’s awareness and knowledge about their environment. The activities in this resource are supported by a robust Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) correlation guide\, building durable STEM Skills\, and differentiated instruction. \nThis workshop qualifies for Criteria I or II in the EE Certification Program. CEU renewal credits are available. \nThe PLT activity guides are provided free of charge to participants through support from the N.C. Forestry Association. If the cost of this workshop is a barrier for you\, or if you have any other questions\, please reach out to the N.C. PLT Coordinator\, Renee Strnad at renee_strnad@ncsu.edu. \nTickets\nA registration link from N.C. State University will be provided soon and posted to this page. Registration is $20. Limited to 25 participants. \nThe Project Learning Tree Educator Workshop is organized by N.C. State University and hosted at Grandfather Mountain. This workshop will take place in the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery. The registration link for this workshop will take you off our site and onto N.C. State’s website. \nGeneral Clothing List\nMuch of your time will be spent outdoors and all programs are held rain or shine. You should be prepared for a variety of mountain weather conditions and temperatures. Appropriate clothing\, equipment and footwear are very important. \nEquipment: \n\nDaypack with enough room to carry extra clothing\, water\, lunch\, camera\, etc.\nWater Bottle\nSunglasses\nSunscreen\nSturdy hiking boots or closed-toed shoes are required\nNotepad/paper\nPen/pencil\n\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.
URL:https://grandfather.com/event/educator-workshop-project-learning-tree/
LOCATION:Grandfather Mountain\, 2050 Blowing Rock Highway\, Linville\, NC\, 28646\, United States
CATEGORIES:Certification Programs,Featured Events
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260731T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260731T160000
DTSTAMP:20260404T144817
CREATED:20250411T190541Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260318T151844Z
UID:10001402-1785492000-1785513600@grandfather.com
SUMMARY:Educator Workshop: WILD About Bears
DESCRIPTION:NOTE: This Educator Workshop is intended specifically for educators — not the general public. \nThis workshop is open to individuals studying for the NC Environmental Education Certification or those needing CE Credits to maintain their certification and will focus on bears in North Carolina. \nHosted by Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation’s own Interpretation and Education staff\, this workshop will teach participants about the life history and management of black bears\, as well as how to incorporate activities about bears into the N.C. Curriculum. Participants will also get to meet the black bears who call Grandfather Mountain home and what it takes to keep them healthy and happy. \nN.C. EE Certification Credit: Criteria II or III and CEU credit are available upon completion of workshop. \nTickets\nThis workshop is free to attend\, although advance registration is required. Limited to 25 participants. Registration opens on this page on May 29\, at 10 a.m. Limited to 25 participants. \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. \nLearn more about this year’s lineup.
URL:https://grandfather.com/event/educator-workshop-wild-about-bear/
LOCATION:Grandfather Mountain\, 2050 Blowing Rock Highway\, Linville\, NC\, 28646\, United States
CATEGORIES:Certification Programs,Featured Events
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260620T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260620T143000
DTSTAMP:20260404T144817
CREATED:20250418T142805Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260318T144327Z
UID:10001406-1781949600-1781965800@grandfather.com
SUMMARY:Mindfulness and Well-being Series: Yoga on the Mountain: Grounded and Grateful
DESCRIPTION:Join Shannon Burbridge\, an experienced movement instructor and educator with over 37 years of experience in the fitness and wellness field\, to immerse yourself in a full day of yoga and grounding techniques to help you ground deeper into yourself and the nature around you. \nAlong with a warmup flow\, peaceful hike and longer\, more in-depth\, yoga practice\, you will gain a basic understanding of foot reflexology\, spinal connection\, self-myofascial techniques and grounding rituals to connect yourself to the natural world around you. \nWith seven NASM/AFAA Certifications\, an RYT 200-hour Yoga Certification with Body Balance School of Yoga Therapy\, a Medfit Menopause Fitness Specialist\, and more\, Shannon is known for her creative and innovative programming and her effective and motivating teaching style. She teaches various group exercise classes including yoga\, aerial yoga\, barre/Pilates\, cardio dance\, resistance training\, and more as well as personal training. \n \nProgram Itinerary\n10:00 – 10:30 a.m. – Introductions and workshop objectives\n10:30 – 11:30 a.m. – Understanding our foundation and feet through reflexology\, spinal connection\, self-myofascial techniques\, a short yoga warmup flow\, time to compare and contrast and a moment to connect to Grandfather Mountain.\n11:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. – Lunch\n12:15 – 1:30 p.m. – Shuttle\, hike to practice location and yoga practice\n1:30 – 1:45 p.m. – Return to workshop location\n1:45 – 2:00 p.m. – Break\n2:00 – 2:15 p.m. – Guided Meditation\n2:15 – 2:30p.m.  – Question and Answer \nTickets\nThis event costs $40 for general admission and $34 for members of Grandfather Mountain’s Bridge Club – plus tax. Registration opens on this page on April 20\, at 10 a.m. Limited to 24 participants. \nWhat’s included?\nYour program cost includes admission into the park\, field instruction and transportation during your program (you may drive your own vehicle to visit sites on the mountain if you would prefer). It does not include meals or lodging. Bringing a bagged lunch is recommended for most field courses\, although Mildred’s Grill will be open to attendees. \nTips are not accepted for field courses. However\, donations to the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation are accepted if you would like to recognize a program. \nGeneral Clothing List\nMuch of your time will be spent outdoors and all programs are held rain or shine. You should be prepared for a variety of mountain weather conditions and temperatures. Appropriate clothing\, equipment and footwear are very important. \nEquipment:\nDaypack with enough room to carry extra clothing\, water\, lunch\, camera\, etc.\nWater Bottle\nSunglasses\nSunscreen\nSturdy hiking boots or closed-toed shoes are required\nBinoculars \nEquipment Specific to this Course:\nYoga mat (optional yoga accessories such as a blanket\, towels\, etc.)\nAny snacks or items needed for personal care\nYoga props will be provided \nRefunds/Cancellations \nGrandfather Mountain events generally sell out and have a waiting list associated with the event. If you cannot attend the field course that you are registered for\, please let us know. Full refunds will be given to individuals who reach out to us at least five days before the event. This allows time for individuals on the waiting list to make accommodations to attend the event. To cancel your registration\, please call 828-833-6332 or email judi@grandfather.com. \nWe ask that individuals who are sick with any illness to stay home to ensure the health and safety of other participants\, our staff\, and the field course instructors – refunds will be granted to these individuals. \nLearn more about the Mindfulness and Well-being series.
URL:https://grandfather.com/event/mindfulness/
LOCATION:Grandfather Mountain\, 2050 Blowing Rock Highway\, Linville\, NC\, 28646\, United States
CATEGORIES:Featured Events
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260812T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260812T160000
DTSTAMP:20260404T144817
CREATED:20250505T163349Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260318T152410Z
UID:10001407-1786528800-1786550400@grandfather.com
SUMMARY:Adult Field Course: Appalachian Woodcraft
DESCRIPTION:The hardy settlers who made these mountains home were resourceful and made what they needed from what was at hand\, and what was at hand was wood. We will examine the types of things Appalachian people have made for themselves from the forests around them like chairs\, bowls\, spoons\, tool handles and more. We will also observe the tools they used to make these items. After taking a walk through the forest which was the pioneer’s lumber yard\, where we will identify trees and some of their uses\, we will focus on a hands-on project – each participant will make an example of that ubiquitous piece of pioneer woodcraft\, the hook. Made from a small\, forked tree branch\, often of rhododendron\, these hooks were found in homes\, barns and outbuildings to hang cloths\, tools\, horse harness and more on the wall in an organized fashion. \nJason Lonon is a craftsman and teacher living and working in the same valley his ancestors have called home since the 1840s. Concurrent to serving an apprenticeship in traditional woodworking\, Jason began blacksmithing as a teenager in the late 1990’s. Today\, Jason and a team of highly skilled craftsmen produce a line of specialty carving tools for traditional woodworkers. Over the years\, Jason has taught welding\, blacksmithing\, woodcarving and other skills in a wide variety of settings from the community college system to wilderness camps. \nProgram Itinerary\n10:00 a.m. – Welcome and Introductions\, Examples of woodwork\, tools and techniques\n11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. – Tree identification hike and lunch\n1:00-3:30 p.m. – Hands on project\n3:30-4:00 p.m. – Closing and evaluation \nTickets\nThis event costs $60 for general admission and $51 for members of Grandfather Mountain’s Bridge Club – plus tax. \nRegistration opens on this page on June 12\, at 10 a.m. Limited to 12 participants. \nWhat’s included?\nYour program cost includes admission into the park\, field instruction and transportation during your program (you may drive your own vehicle to visit sites on the mountain if you would prefer). It does not include meals or lodging. Bringing a bagged lunch is recommended for most field courses\, although Mildred’s Grill will be open to attendees. \nTips are not accepted for field courses. However\, donations to the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation are accepted if you would like to recognize a program. \nGeneral Clothing List\nMuch of your time will be spent outdoors and all programs are held rain or shine. You should be prepared for a variety of mountain weather conditions and temperatures. Appropriate clothing\, equipment and footwear are very important. \nEquipment:\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\nNotebook and pencil \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-appalachian-woodcraft/
LOCATION:Grandfather Mountain\, 2050 Blowing Rock Highway\, Linville\, NC\, 28646\, United States
CATEGORIES:Adult Field Courses,Featured Events
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260801T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260801T160000
DTSTAMP:20260404T144817
CREATED:20250506T153435Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260318T151739Z
UID:10001408-1785578400-1785600000@grandfather.com
SUMMARY:Adult Field Course: Exploring Natural Communities of Grandfather Mountain
DESCRIPTION:Join us for an in-depth exploration of the natural community types found on Grandfather Mountain. In this class\, you’ll learn to recognize distinct habitats by studying their characteristic flora\, fauna and environmental conditions. Guided by ecological principles and scientific tools\, we’ll examine how factors such as elevation\, topography\, soil composition and microclimates shape these unique ecosystems and provide habitats for some of the rare and endangered species that we’ll see during our exploration. This workshop will enhance your ability to classify habitats and deepen your understanding of the complex interplay between species and their environments. \nElizabeth Trott and Leigh Ann Emery have served as Interpretive Park Guides for the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation since 2021 and 2022\, respectively. Both are NAI Certified Interpretive Park Guides\, and both are nearing completion of the North Carolina Environmental Educator certification. Elizabeth and Leigh Ann both have an immense passion for all aspects of nature. They often spend their time\, both at work and personally\, exploring Grandfather Mountain and sharing their passions with anyone that will listen. \n \nProgram Itinerary\n10:00 – 10:15 – Meet at the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery and Introductions\n10:15 – 11:30 – Classroom introduction to Natural Communities of Grandfather Mountain\n11:30 – 12:00 – Lunch at Wilson Center\n12:00 – 3:30 – Exploring different Natural Communities on the Mountain (shuttle provided)\n3:30 – 4:00 – Wrap up/Evaluations \nTickets\nThis event costs $60 for general admission and $51 for members of Grandfather Mountain’s Bridge Club – plus tax. \nRegistration opens on this page on June 1 at 10 a.m. Limited to 20 participants. \nWhat’s included?\nYour program cost includes admission into the park\, field instruction and transportation during your program (you may drive your own vehicle to visit sites on the mountain if you would prefer). It does not include meals or lodging. Bringing a bagged lunch is recommended for most field courses\, although Mildred’s Grill will be open to attendees. \nTips are not accepted for field courses. However\, donations to the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation are accepted if you would like to recognize a program. \nGeneral Clothing List\nMuch of your time will be spent outdoors and all programs are held rain or shine. You should be prepared for a variety of mountain weather conditions and temperatures. Appropriate clothing\, equipment and footwear are very important. \nEquipment:\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\nNotebook and pencil\nLong pants and preferably long-sleeved shirts are strongly encouraged as we will be walking through the woods. \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-natural-communities/
LOCATION:Grandfather Mountain\, 2050 Blowing Rock Highway\, Linville\, NC\, 28646\, United States
CATEGORIES:Adult Field Courses,Featured Events
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260806T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260806T160000
DTSTAMP:20260404T144817
CREATED:20250512T152938Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260318T151003Z
UID:10001409-1786010400-1786032000@grandfather.com
SUMMARY:Adult Field Course: Fungi in the Cloud Forest
DESCRIPTION:The southern Appalachians are world-renowned for different types of fungi\, from mushrooms to lichens\, and are home to more than 2\,000 species. Here’s a chance to learn about the lifestyle and habitats of fungi\, as well as observe many kinds of fungal fruiting bodies\, including mushrooms growing at higher elevations. Participants will learn how to identify them by size\, shape and color. You will also inoculate a log with shiitake mushroom mycelium to take home with you. After an interactive introduction to the fungi kingdom\, that includes inoculating the logs\, we’ll take a short slow stroll in search of mushrooms growing on the mountain to collect representatives of different fungal families to study back in the classroom. Through this workshop and field exploration\, you’ll learn about fungal habitats\, toxicology and the important roles fungi play in the forest ecosystem. The workshop is designed for beginners\, but veteran foragers will also glean new insights. \nJulie Mullis has been smitten with all aspects of fungi for the past 25 years\, starting when she keyed out an interesting-looking mushroom during a slow\, rainy park ranger season. She has taught many fungi programs and workshops for the community and for the parks where she has worked. She is currently in her 14th season as an interpretive ranger on the Blue Ridge Parkway\, currently working north of Boone at Brinegar Cabin in Doughton Park. She has also enjoyed seasons as an environmental educator in Tongass National Forest in Alaska\, W. Kerr Scott Reservoir in Wilkesboro and at Grandfather Mountain. \n \nProgram Itinerary\n10 a.m. – Meet at the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery and Introductions\n10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. – Interactive illustrated discussion on the fungi kingdom and the key families \n\nFungal lifestyles and how they eat\, grow and reproduce\nImportance of fungi to humans and other organisms\nIntriguing representatives of various fungal families\n\n12 – 12:30 p.m. – Lunch (Bring your own or purchase from Mildred’s grill)\n12:30 – 2 p.m. – Inoculate shiitake logs\n2 – 3:15 p.m. – Stroll along Woods Walk Trail to look for mushrooms and other fungal fruiting bodies\n3:15 – 4 p.m. – Discussion back in classroom about mushrooms and fruiting bodies found on stroll with wrap up and evaluations \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 June 8\, at 10 a.m. Limited to 12 participants. \nWhat’s included?\nYour program cost includes admission into the park\, field instruction and transportation during your program (you may drive your own vehicle to visit sites on the mountain if you would prefer). It does not include meals or lodging. Bringing a bagged lunch is recommended for most field courses\, although Mildred’s Grill will be open to attendees. \nTips are not accepted for field courses. However\, donations to the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation are accepted if you would like to recognize a program. \nGeneral Clothing List\nMuch of your time will be spent outdoors. You should be prepared for a variety of mountain weather conditions and temperatures. Appropriate clothing\, equipment and footwear are very important. \nEquipment:\nWater Bottle\nDaypack with rain jacket\, snack and possibly binoculars\nPencil/Pen and Notepad \nEquipment Specific to this Course:\nClothes you don’t mind possibly getting wax or sawdust on\nField guides (if you have them)\nHand lens for up close observations of mushrooms and other fruiting bodies\nCell phone for taking pictures or uploading identification app \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-fungi/
LOCATION:Grandfather Mountain\, 2050 Blowing Rock Highway\, Linville\, NC\, 28646\, United States
CATEGORIES:Adult Field Courses,Featured Events
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260509T100000
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LAST-MODIFIED:20260402T162507Z
UID:10001410-1778320800-1778342400@grandfather.com
SUMMARY:Adult Field Course: Service-Learning Course: Managing Non-native Species
DESCRIPTION:Join us to learn about non-native invasive species that can threaten our native flora and fauna and see different management strategies in action. After exploring the techniques Grandfather Mountain Natural Resources staff use to promote native species in the park\, we’ll head into the woods for hands-on experience removing invasive plants. Participants will learn non-native species identification\, management practices that can be used at home and how some invasive “weeds” can have practical (even culinary) uses! \nLeigh Ann Emery has served as an Interpretive Park Guide for the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation since 2022. Originally from Charlotte\, N.C.\, Leigh Ann graduated from Lees-McRae College with a degree in Wildlife Biology in 2019. She is an NAI Certified Interpretive Guide and a Certified North Carolina Environmental Educator. Leigh Ann has an immense passion for all aspects of nature\, often spending her time exploring Grandfather Mountain and sharing that passion with anyone who will listen. \nWill Bennett graduated from Appalachian State University with a Masters in Geography in 2024 and surveyed the Town of Boone property for invasive plants to create an invasives management plan for the town. As Research Coordinator at GMSF\, he monitors invasive and endangered species and works with the Natural Resources Dept to treat invasive plants. \nProgram Itinerary\n10:00am – 11:30am – Welcome & Intro to Invasives in Classroom\n11:30am – 12:30pm – Natural Resources Demonstration of Insect Management\n12:30pm – 1:15pm – Lunch\n1:15pm – 3:30pm – Invasive plant pulling\n3:30pm – 4:00pm – Return to Classroom\, Wrap-up\, & Evaluations \nTickets\nThis event costs $40 for general admission and $34 for members of Grandfather Mountain’s Bridge Club – plus tax.\nRegistration opens on this page on March 25\, 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. \nWhat’s included?\nYour program cost includes admission into the park\, field instruction and transportation during your program (you may drive your own vehicle to visit sites on the mountain if you would prefer). It does not include meals or lodging. Bringing a bagged lunch is recommended for most field courses\, although Mildred’s Grill will be open to attendees. \nTips are not accepted for field courses. However\, donations to the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation are accepted if you would like to recognize a program. \nGeneral Clothing List\nMuch of your time will be spent outdoors and all programs are held rain or shine. You should be prepared for a variety of mountain weather conditions and temperatures. Appropriate clothing\, equipment and footwear are very important. Bring hiking or work boots as well as work gloves that you like to wear. We will provide work gloves for those who do not have a pair. \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\nNotebook and pencil \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/service-learning-nonnative-species/
LOCATION:Grandfather Mountain\, 2050 Blowing Rock Highway\, Linville\, NC\, 28646\, United States
CATEGORIES:Adult Field Courses,After Hours Programs,Featured Events
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UID:10001424-1785565800-1785565800@grandfather.com
SUMMARY:Sunrise at the Swinging Bridge
DESCRIPTION:Back by popular demand\, Grandfather Mountain\, the not-for-profit nature park run by the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation\, is offering a sunrise experience in 2026. This special event\, titled “Sunrise at the Swinging Bridge\,” will provide guests with the rare opportunity to be in the park outside of regular operating hours and to hopefully experience a lovely sunrise from the bridge’s lofty vantage point. \nTickets for this event go on sale online on Grandfather Mountain’s website June 2 at 10 a.m. \nAdmission to this event is $52 for general admission\, $33 for children (ages 3-12) and $20 for members of Grandfather Mountain’s Bridge Club. Event tickets include an entire day’s access to Grandfather. As the remainder of the park doesn’t open until later on after sunrise (8 a.m. on Aug. 1)\, participants are welcome to leave the mountain following sunrise and return later in the day for no additional cost. \nDue to safety regulations\, eventgoers are only permitted to view the sunrise from the Swinging Bridge area. The Top Shop gift shop and restrooms will be accessible during the events. Park educators will be on hand to talk to guests about the nature around the Swinging Bridge\, identify nearby points of interest and answer any questions. In addition\, a professional photographer very familiar with capturing sunrises at Grandfather Mountain will also be on hand to chat with those guests wishing to capture the beauty of the day’s first light with their cameras. \nParticipants are strongly encouraged to bring a flashlight or headlamp and wear heavy jackets\, hats\, gloves and rubber-soled shoes. Spring and summer mornings can still be surprisingly very chilly at the top of Grandfather Mountain!  \nThis event may be canceled on short notice in case of inclement weather\, and guests will be refunded if that’s the case. In addition\, a picture-perfect sunrise\, unfortunately\, cannot be guaranteed. \nThis event is limited to 150 guests. If the events sell out\, waiting lists will be available. \n-Tickets for this event go on sale online on Grandfather Mountain’s website June 2 at 10 a.m.\n-Park gates will open to sunrise participants at 5:30 a.m.\n-Sunrise is at 6:35 a.m. on Aug. 1\n-Park hours are 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. this day\, with trails closing at 6 p.m.\n-To receive a full refund\, guests must cancel prior to 5 p.m. Friday\, March 6. Cancellations following that date are not eligible for a refund. To cancel\, email judi@grandfather.com or call 828-833-6332.\n-Grandfather Mountain will make a decision on whether the event is able to take place and notify all ticket holders by noon on Thursday\, July 30.
URL:https://grandfather.com/event/sunrise-at-the-swinging-bridge/
LOCATION:Grandfather Mountain\, 2050 Blowing Rock Highway\, Linville\, NC\, 28646\, United States
CATEGORIES:Featured Events
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CREATED:20260205T203032Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260205T212540Z
UID:10001426-1790964000-1790971200@grandfather.com
SUMMARY:Sunset at the Swinging Bridge
DESCRIPTION:Back by popular demand\, Grandfather Mountain\, the not-for-profit nature park run by the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation\, is offering a sunset experiences in 2026. These special events\, titled “Sunset at the Swinging Bridge\,” will provide guests with the rare opportunity to be in the park outside of regular operating hours and to hopefully experience a lovely sunrise from the bridge’s lofty vantage point. \nTickets for this event go on sale online on Grandfather Mountain’s website Aug. 5 at 10 a.m. \nAdmission to the event is $52 for general admission\, $33 for children (ages 3-12) and $20 for members of Grandfather Mountain’s Bridge Club. Event tickets include an entire day’s access to Grandfather\, with regular park hours being 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Trails close at 5 p.m. \nWith park admission included in each sunset ticket\, we encourage all event attendees to spend the day at Grandfather Mountain before their special event. \nAll participants will be required to head to the top of the mountain by 6 p.m. when the park is closing. Due to safety regulations\, eventgoers are only permitted to view the sunset from the Swinging Bridge area. The Top Shop gift shop and restrooms will be accessible during the events.  \nPark educators will be on hand to talk to guests about the nature around the Swinging Bridge\, identify nearby points of interest and answer any questions. In addition\, a professional photographer very familiar with capturing sunsets at Grandfather Mountain will also be on hand to chat with those guests wishing to capture the beauty of the day’s last light with their cameras. \nParticipants are strongly encouraged to bring a flashlight or headlamp and wear heavy jackets\, hats\, gloves and rubber-soled shoes. Fall evenings can be surprisingly very chilly at the top of Grandfather Mountain!  \nThe event may be canceled on short notice in case of inclement weather\, and guests will be refunded if that’s the case. In addition\, a picture-perfect sunset\, unfortunately\, cannot be guaranteed. \nThis event is limited to 150 guests. If the events sell out\, waiting lists will be available. \n-Tickets for this event go on sale online on Grandfather Mountain’s website Aug. 5 at 10 a.m.\n-Sunset is at 7:10 p.m. on Friday\, Oct. 2\n-All “Sunset at the Swinging Bridge” participants will need to exit the park’s gates by 8 p.m.\n-To receive a full refund\, guests must cancel prior to 5 p.m. Friday\, Sept. 25. Cancellations following that date are not eligible for a refund. To cancel\, email judi@grandfather.com or call 828-833-6332.\n-Grandfather Mountain will make a decision on whether the event is able to take place and notify all ticket holders by noon on Wednesday\, Sept. 30.
URL:https://grandfather.com/event/sunset-at-the-swinging-bridge/
LOCATION:Grandfather Mountain\, 2050 Blowing Rock Highway\, Linville\, NC\, 28646\, United States
CATEGORIES:Featured Events
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