Cross the Mile High Swinging Bridge on Grandfather Mountain

Step onto the Mile High Swinging Bridge for a unique blend of adventure and nature's beauty, high above North Carolina's scenic landscape.

Last updated: Apr 2024

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Adults $24, Children (4-12) $10
More than 500 Miles from you
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Description

Step onto the Mile High Swinging Bridge for a unique blend of adventure and nature's beauty, high above North Carolina's scenic landscape. As you venture to Grandfather Mountain, prepare to be captivated by the Mile High Swinging Bridge, a marvel that combines nature's grandeur with human ingenuity. This iconic bridge, hovering above an 80-foot chasm, offers unparalleled 360-degree vistas from Linville Peak's summit, making it a highlight for visitors since its inauguration in 1952. Whether you ascend the 50 stairs beside the Top Shop or opt for the elevator, reaching the bridge is an adventure in itself, accessible to all. Beyond the bridge, the mountain beckons with its wildlife habitats, hiking trails, and the Top Shop's amenities, ensuring a memorable journey through this breathtaking slice of North Carolina's High Country.

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Itinerary

Arrival: Enter Grandfather Mountain at 2050 Blowing Rock Hwy, Linville, NC.
Top Shop: Visit the Top Shop for gifts, snacks, and the elevator to the bridge.
Bridge Crossing: Walk the short, paved path to the Mile High Swinging Bridge.
Explore More: After crossing, consider hiking to Linville Peak or visiting the wildlife habitats.

Location

2050 Blowing Rock Hwy, Linville, NC 28646

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Packing List

Comfortable walking shoes
Camera or smartphone for photos
Layered clothing for changing mountain weather
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Water bottle

4.8 ● Google reviews

Drove up on a whim one Sunday. It was beautiful. Not a lot of people. Had no idea it cost to get in, but we went anyways. The views are amazing. Forest Gump ran there. If you've never been, the bridge moves when you walk across it, so be mindful of that. There was no authority or supervision at the bridge, just trusting people to behave. The walk out onto the point at the end of the bridge was more than I was prepared for, so wear hiking boots. Didn't try the food at the diner, but looked like basic food you'd get at the food court at Discovery Place.

Great views driving up to Grandfathers Mountain. No issues purchasing tickets on line, when you get there, freedom to go at your on pace. There's a wild life habitat to enjoy at the top. Enjoy!

The view on the winding road up Grandfather Mountain to the Mile High Swinging Bridge is breathtakingly gorgeous! I got a "lump in my throat" and my eyes filled with tears! The overlooks are equally as spell-binding! The keepsake complimentary audio cd describes the scenes all along the way! Once we parked, we took the elevator inside the gift shop up to the bridge level. My walk across the bridge was a thrilling delight!! The scenery..God's creation..is a spectacular beauty to behold from such heights! If I were the age of 25 instead of 75, I would probably have attempted the trek to the top of Grandfather Mountain. I have awesome photos that I can't seem to share since they're in my husband's phone! This is a must-see!

Not for the feint of heart! You can get to this bridge by either a short hike (uphill, very rocky), or driving up to a parking lot. If you choose to drive, there is a gift shop at the top of the hill that has an elevator that will take you the rest of the way to the bridge. Once you are on the bridge, it can get crowded pretty quickly. The bridge has protection around it, but the rocky areas around it do not. I would suggest being very mindful of this if bringing children. The views from the bridge and the areas around it are beautiful, and this is definitely worth the visit. The gift shop has restrooms, snacks, and water.

1000 stars! Grandfather Mountain is THE place to go in the Boone area. Zoo, gift shop, hiking, amazing views places to picnic. It's $25 per person and well worth it. If you plan to hike the Grandfather trail BE PREPARED. It is no joke, extremely difficult, dangerous and long. Prepare for the weather. It can be much cooler at the summit and the winds can be heavy, even on nice days.

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