Grandfather Mountain in the Spring

March 24th, 2009

turkscap

Spring at Grandfather Mountain means Nature Hikes!

The mountain boasts several hikes varying in difficulty, but equal in scenic grandeur.

Grandfather Mountain has 11 trails varying in difficulty from a gentle walk in the woods to a rigorous trek across rugged peaks. It is in the backcountry that you come up against the more challenging hikes.

For safety reasons, walking down the road is not permitted.

In-Park Nature Trails

Grandfather has a number of gentle paths that can be accessed from the summit road. Designed to offer a low-impact foray into nature, these paths allow guests to get out in the woods without requiring a long and strenuous commitment.

Backcountry Hiking Trails

Grandfather’s backcountry is very different from other areas in the South.

Trails take you through forests usually found in Canadian climates.
Many of the trails use ladders and cables to climb sheer cliff faces.
Grandfather is home to 16 distinct natural communities (ecosystems).
Is home to 70 rare or endangered species, including 29 that are globally imperiled.
Portions of the backcountry are sheltered within a Nature Conservancy trust.
Grandfather is part of the United Nation’s international network of Biosphere Reserves
Hikers access trails only by paying user fees.
Hiking is included as part of your attraction admission . Guests who purchase a ticket to the attraction may access the trails from inside the gates.
Guests who visit for hiking only may access the trails from off-mountain trailheads and must purchase hiking permits for one-half the regular gate admission price.