Along the way to the top of Grandfather Mountain, there is a museum and an animal "habitat" (zoo). When you reach the top, you can go out on the swinging/singing bridge. It's billed as being a mile high, which is technically true because it is a mile above sea level, but it's only about 80' above land.
There is also a bear and mountain lions, and eagle and different wildlife to see as well as a very good spot for lunch.
You Must See This Place.
I recommend this as a stop if you are in the area. It will probably take half a day if you drive through and a whole day if you like the trails.
The views are extraordinary, you are a mile up in the air and can see the mountains lay down before you. The Smokies are such a beautiful place, you shouldn't miss this spot.
Breath taking place to visit! Drive all the way up the mountain with spectacular views all the way! Plenty of places to pull off and enjoy the views. Once at the top, park and head into the visitors center. Restrooms and snacks available. Then move on to the mile high bridge. Be ready for the wind so have warmer clothes. The views are absolutely spectacular! The hike is easy, but you need to watch your step if you don't hike often. On your way back down check out the animals at the nature center. There is a cafeteria inside along with some must see artwork. The next stop will be split rock! Great photo opportunities. You could spend all day at Grandfather Mountain!
This is a little pricey, but still very enjoyable. When you pay for entry, you are given a CD that guides you through the park and gives some additional background information.
Well worth the trip! The fee at the gate was $20/per adult, $6/per child. We felt it was well worth it! Plenty to see and do, whether you're retired and want car access to beautiful views, along with visiting bears, cougars, and elk in a natural habitat, and a mile-high swinging bridge (it's safe). Several hiking trails for the young or young at heart. You can drive to a peak of 6700 ft above sea level. We're definitely returning with friends!
So make sure you dress warmly. After you cross the bridge at the top, the rocks can be pretty precarious, make sure that you have sturdy shoes and if you are agile and can keep your balance pretty good with the strong winds, then this is a must for you.
The drive up here is very easy, leisurely and beautiful. Now that it's cooler, make sure you dress accordingly. At the top of the mountain it can be quite cold, especially with the wind whistling through the bridge up there.
If your looking for a great family fun filled day, this is the place to go! Breath taking Views that stretch out for miles, trails for the little tykes, young and older folks. Also have a nice museum and an animal habitat that young and old all enjoy! And the most attractive part of the mountain that everyone wants to see is the mile high swinging (now the singing) bridge! Go enjoy an all day adventure and pack a picnic with sandwiches or bring the charcoal and grill out at one of the many grill areas on the mountain.
Grandfather Mountain State Park is a US Park based in Banner Elk, North Carolina. Grandfather Mountain State Park is located at 9872 North Carolina 105, Banner Elk, NC 28604, USA.
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