Conquer the Peaks: Grandfather Mountain Trail Adventure

Experience the thrill of the Grandfather Mountain Trail, where rugged paths, ladders, and stunning vistas await the bold.

Last updated: Apr 2024

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More than 500 Miles from you
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Description

Embark on the Grandfather Trail for a challenging hike across iconic peaks with breathtaking views, perfect for experienced adventurers. Experience the thrill of the Grandfather Mountain Trail, where rugged paths, ladders, and stunning vistas await the bold. The Grandfather Mountain Trail is an exhilarating adventure for seasoned hikers, offering a 2.4-mile trek across the mountain's three peaks: MacRae, Attic Window, and Calloway. Known for its technical difficulty, the trail includes steep, hand-over-hand climbs, in-place cables, and ladders, presenting a thrilling challenge without the need for special equipment. Starting from the Top Shop parking lot or the Black Rock Parking Area, hikers will traverse wind-dwarfed spruce and fir, rock walls, and open spaces, with panoramic views at every turn. The trail's rugged beauty and the diverse ecosystems it passes through make it a unique hiking experience.

Perfect for

For solo

For two

For groups

Outdoorsy

Challenging

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Itinerary

Start at the Top Shop Parking Area or Black Rock Parking Area.
Follow the Grandfather Trail across MacRae, Attic Window, and Calloway peaks.
Use cables and ladders in steep sections for safety.
Enjoy the diverse landscapes and breathtaking views along the way.
Complete the 4.8-mile roundtrip hike, allowing at least 5 hours for the journey.

Location

Grandfather Trail, Linville, NC 28646

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Packing List

Sturdy hiking boots for rocky and uneven terrains.
Weather-appropriate clothing (be prepared for sudden changes).
Water and snacks for energy replenishment.
A camera to capture the stunning views.
A small first-aid kit for safety.

4.8 ● Google reviews

Terrific place for a day hick with the family! The trails are challenging and as described so if you’re selecting a trail make sure it’s skill appropriate. There were several hikers on difficult trails that had no business being there, one person thought it was a good idea to take a small child up a difficult rated trail which caused back ups on the ladders. There was a ton of volume on the trails with views so be prepared for that. It was a bit expensive, $30 per person or $20 on-line in advance. The facilities are in very good shape and there’s a lot to see. The zoo are was great for kids.

One of the best hikes in NC. The swinging bridge, museum and mini zoo are a must. If you're up for it, the hike to the peak is one of the best you'll see. This place can get extremely busy, so I recommend going during the week if you can.

Beautiful place to visit and hike. Hoping to complete one of the more challenging hikes there soon. The mile high swinging bridge is just amazing but make sure it’s not going to storm before you go. They shut down the bridge if there’s lightning and you pay $30 a person to get in. We were able to get a rain check though.

I never thought I would experience something so daring before! I love to hike but this one gave me the challenge and the views that makes you feel like Earth is unreal!! I really enjoyed one of the girls who worked there too!! I wish I remembered her name but she was so informative of the animal section and they had a really cool nook by the bridge that gave history on how this place came to be!! I love it!! WE SCALED A MOUNTAIN 🤩 so bring your hiking shoes cuz it’s a blast!! They have picnic places with a great view at different points It’s dog friendly And has a dope place to eat with clean bathrooms!

We had an amazing time hiking and walking on the 1 mile swinging bridge. The views were breathtaking. The naturist was helpful in teaching about the aviary on site. The staff were kind and helpful. The food at the Grille was tasty.

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