There are SO MANY ways to experience Grandfather Mountain! I absolutely love this state park. So much in fact it’s sort of become an annual tradition. Today I’m sharing all my insider knowledge on Grandfather in the hopes it will help you plan your own adventure there.
Quick disclaimer: Obviously trails are ever changing, so there's a chance some (or ALL) of the things I share may not be accurate or applicable during the time in which you're viewing this. The viewer assumes all responsibility for their own hiking experience and safety... with all that said let's talk about Grandfather Mountain!
Know before you go...
Here’s an overview of what you need to know before you go
1. The attraction and state park are two separate things. The attraction incudes the museum, restaurant, animal habitats, a guided CD tour, and parking access to the bridge. It costs $22 for adults, and at this time tickets can only be bought online.
2. You CAN access the hiking trails for free from Profile or Boone Fork trailheads, but you CANNOT access the attraction beyond the swinging bridge and hiker designated parking lot.
3. Camping spots must be reserved online as well there’s no check in process for this since they are backcountry sites, but a “camping permit” must be filled out at the trailhead kiosk. (Just your standard hiking registration card with vehicle info etc.)
4. Grandfather trail is very technical and rated as advanced, and because of the many cables and ladders is not really suitable for children or pets. However I have seen a couple reach Calloway with a medium size dog using Profile trail. (Do with that info what you will. I personally wouldn’t try to take Barrett and Nora though)
Resources:
Here's some of the free resources I’ve used over the years to plan my visits:
Trail Map (park trail system only)
Be sure to check out the video of my most recent visit as well as videos from previous trips
2021 Trip
2020 Trip
2019 Trip
I'd love to send you a postcard from the trail! Sign up HERE to let me know where to send it: https://www.seagrasstosassafras.com/postcard (BTW, there is a digital option)
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Outro music: "Carry On" by The New Valleys