![]() ![]() This popular hike climbs the “backside” of the mountain – not part of the paid attraction area that includes the Swinging Bridge. Just two miles from the main entrance to Sugar Mountain is the Profile Trail trailhead, part of the NC State Park section of Grandfather. ![]() Also, the shorter Bridge Trail begins at same parking area and switchbacks up the mountain by massive rock outcroppings, traveling under the Swinging Bridge before ending at the Top Shop. ![]() It’s very strenuous with narrow chutes and extra steep sections with cables and ladders.įor an easier option perfect for all ages, the beautiful one-mile Black Rock Trail begins at the Black Rock Parking Area and slopes out gradually to a wide angle view of the surrounding mountains from outcropping. The trail follows the crest of Grandfather Mountain from the Swinging Bridge Parking out 2.4 miles to Calloway Peak. The most iconic and challenging is the Grandfather Trail, an upper ridge trail with an astonishing variety with aromatic spruce trees, towering rock pinnacles and panoramic views from several peaks. Grandfather Mountain Hiking Trailsįind a variety of trails for all fitness levels and ages. Watch a 30-minute documentary, have lunch at Mildred’s Grill, buy souvenirs and attend ranger talks in the outdoor amphitheater. Learn about animals, plants, extreme weather and more. Opened in summer 2022, the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery includes top-notch exhibits that explain the wonders of the mountain and its many climate zones. There are more than 100 picnic tables spread across the mountain, open all year. Staff naturalists offer an array of programs included in the cost of admission in April through October – plus behind-the-scenes tour for an additional fee. Get up close to black bears, river otters, cougars, bald eagles and elk. Grandfather Mountain supports 16 distinct ecological communities due to its abrupt rise above the valley floor.Ībout halfway up the mountain, stop to see the wildlife habitats and a nature discovery center. Nature Conservancy considers Grandfather Mountain an ecological site of global significance, as it provides habitat for more globally rare species than any mountain east of the Rockies. At the top, you can hike several trails – get hiking details below. The famous Swinging Bridge is even wheelchair accessible via an elevation in the Top Shop. Walk along the rocky ridges beyond the bridge (be careful!) for even more dramatic views. The summit is often in the clouds, and you can see the profile view from many Sugar Mountain vacation rentals.Īt the top of the mountain, find a gift shop, snacks and the foot suspension mile-high bridge with 360-degree views. Drive to the top via the winding road and feel the temperatures drop. After purchasing your ticket at the entrance, you explore the park on your own. To enjoy the attraction (operated by a non-profit Foundation), drive around the mountain – about 6 miles. If you want to hike the Profile Trail, see info below. Most visitors head around the mountain from Sugar to drive to the top (make online reservations in advance!). There are two areas to enjoy this amazing mountain. Rock formations on Grandfather Mountain date back 1.2 billion years. In addition to being one of the top scenic attractions in North Carolina, Grandfather Mountain is recognized by the United Nations as a nature Biosphere Reserve of global importance. Located beside Sugar Mountain (elevation 5,300 feet) is the famous Grandfather Mountain (elevation 5,946 feet) with the popular mile-high swinging bridge. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |