Grandfather Mountain Nature Park
and Swinging Bridge
WillhiteWeb.com
Grandfather Mountain is a natural attraction owned by a family company. You pay a hefty admission fee but there are quite a few different and unique attractions you can do to get your moneys worth. The top outdoor activity would be the swinging bridge, that really does not swing much. It is at a mile high in elevation but they promote it as if the bridge is a mile high off the ground. The second big attraction high on the mountain is the Grandfather Trail. After the first half mile, you hit a series of ladders and cables up cliff faces that get most visitors hearts pumping. It really is a unique experience and well worth the cost. Down lower on the mountain is the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery and many nature trails and wildlife exhibits. Visitors do enjoy daily programs. The rest of the mountain is owned by the State of North Carolina and has many hiking trails. The area is a United Nations member of the international Biosphere Reserves.
Where they filmed a running scene in Forrest Gump
Entrance Station
Down low on the road
Split Rock
Highest parking area
Mile High Swinging Bridge
Wilson Center for Nature Discovery
Elk habitat and Eagle Cage
The bear habitat
Inside Wilson Center for Nature Discovery