Nature on Whole Different Level

The High Country's premier natural attraction entertains,

informs—even inspires—young and old, families, and the serious outdoor adventurer.

Grandfather Mountain, the tallest mountain in the Blue Ridge and the world’s only privately owned International Biosphere Reserve, is non-profit preservation at its loftiest. 

A spectacular drive takes visitors to the newly wheelchair-accessible Mile-High Swinging Bridge, thousands of feet above the Carolina Piedmont. You'll marvel at 360-degree views of mountain ridge after mountain ridge retreating to the distant horizon. Surveys show that the journey to the other side is always the highlight of a trip to Grandfather Mountain.

A world-class nature museum, interpretive programs, and Environmental Habitats for deer, bears, cougars, eagles and otters offer outdoor education and entertainment. Awesome trails lead to high adventure.