THE MOUNTAIN TIMES WINTER GUIDE
PAGE 56
2013
Grandfather Mountain, open year-round, offers unparalleled views from high above the High Country. PHOTO BY ROB MOORE
The Grandfather
of all High Country attractions
BY CAROLINE HARRIS
A
trip to the High Country is not complete without braving the Mile-High Swinging Bridge at Grandfather Mountain. Grandfather Mountain is so named because the unmistakable profile of an elderly man, looking like a sleeping giant, can be seen on its ridgeline. Originally built in 1952, Grandfather Mountain’s 228-foot suspension bridge spans an 80-foot chasm. It’s a bit daunting to take that first step, but once you
reach the middle of the bridge, it’s like being suspended mid-air, 5,280 feet above sea level. At the entrance to the mountain, there is a drive-through admission booth. The price of admission includes a trail guide and audio CD guide to the various attractions. Famously, the steep road’s hairpin curves were featured in a scene from the movie, “Forrest Gump.” As you drive up to the peak, overlooks include Half Moon Overlook, Cliffside Overlook and Sheer Bluff. These overlooks provide an opportunity to stop and
take in the view as you make your way up the mountain. Rime ice, or ice that forms when fog freezes, covers Grandfather Mountain in the winter and adds a beautiful, sugarcoated look to the trees, rocks and other natural scenery. Grandfather Mountain also features interesting rock formations accessible on foot, including the Sphinx and Split rocks. The Sphinx rock formation weighs more than 2 million pounds. See animals native to Grandfather Mountain in the wildlife habitats. The
seven environmental habitats are home to cougars, white-tailed deer, black bears and river otters. A new eagle habitat houses bald eagles. All eagles in the habitat have some type of injury that prevents them from surviving in the wild. The park also features the Top Shop gift shop and gallery, where you can purchase local and seasonal souvenirs. Stop for lunch at Mildred’s Grill in the Nature Museum for some elevated eating. November hours are 9 a.m. to 5:30
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