Take a daily, short, guided stroll at 2 PM that highlights Grandfather Mountain’s rhododendron species and blooms. Included with admission. See the blooms and learn about their history, attributes and roles they play in the mountain’s ecological communities.
From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., there will be a variety of interpretive tables and programming at the Woods Walk on topics such as how to plan a hike, Leave No Trace, essential items needed in a backpack and more.
Celebrate the rhododendron blooms with guided rambles, kids crafts and special displays. See the blossoms and learn about their history, attributes and roles they play in the mountain’s ecological communities.
This popular shutterbug weekend includes presentations from top nature photographers, hands-on breakout sessions, a friendly contest and the rare opportunity to photograph the mountain’s spectacular scenery and native animals before and after regular business hours.
Join Grandfather Mountain to celebrate the birthdays of their resident animals with games, contests, crafts and surprises. The park’s wildlife habitat staff hosts a fun-filled afternoon for guests, as well as programs to celebrate the park’s furry and feathered inhabitants.
Blaring bagpipes, astounding athletes, delicate dancers, rocking Celtic music and a spectacular highland setting makes this colorful celebration of Scottish culture the best highland games in America.
Explore Grandfather Mountain after hours with your own personal guides. Discover some of the park’s nighttime wonders, while stopping at its most significant sites. Watch a stunning Grandfather sunset, and experience the mountain as never before!
Explore Grandfather Mountain after hours with your own personal guides. Discover some of the park’s nighttime wonders, while stopping at its most significant sites. Watch a stunning Grandfather sunset, and experience the mountain as never before!
Explore Grandfather Mountain after hours with your own personal guides. Discover some of the park’s nighttime wonders, while stopping at its most significant sites. Watch a stunning Grandfather sunset, and experience the mountain as never before!
On Animal Enrichment Day, guests see firsthand how Grandfather Mountain cares for its resident animals. An enrichment is a special treat, new toy or even an unfamiliar scent given to the animals to break up their routines and help keep them active and intellectually stimulated. Watch enrichment demonstrations, talk directly with keepers and participate in family-oriented games and crafts.
Explore Grandfather Mountain after hours with your own personal guides. Discover some of the park’s nighttime wonders, while stopping at its most significant sites. Watch a beautiful sunset, and experience the mountain as never before!
Explore Grandfather Mountain after hours with your own personal guides. Discover some of the park’s nighttime wonders, while stopping at its most significant sites. Watch a beautiful sunset, and experience the mountain as never before!
Explore Grandfather Mountain after hours with your own personal guides. Discover some of the park’s nighttime wonders, while stopping at its most significant sites. Watch a beautiful sunset, and experience the mountain as never before!
Junior Naturalist Program activities throughout the day will be provided specifically for children ages 5-12 but all ages are welcome! Events are included with admission. It is recommended that those planning to attend purchase their tickets to the park online in advance.
From September 30 through October 8, guests enjoy short, guided nature walks that highlight Grandfather Mountain’s fall colors. The Fall Color Rambles take place daily, weather permitting, and are included in an admission ticket.
Embrace your nocturnal side at Grandfather Mountain through Creatures of the Night & Bonfire Delight, the park’s after-hours program where guests enjoy rare after-dark tours, fireside tales and a chance to meet the park’s nighttime residents.
Grandfather Mountain’s Fall Color Ramble wraps up with a day full of fall-color activities, including naturalist talks and additional rambles, allowing participants to explore and admire the annual phenomenon.
Visit Grandfather Mountain for a day of nature programs about animals that some consider creepy and crawly! This fun-filled celebration includes an opportunity to trick-or-treat on the mountain and then watch special Halloween enrichments be given to the animals.
Enjoy the rare opportunity to visit Grandfather Mountain outside of regular operating hours and see a sunrise from the top of the mountain. Sunrise is at 7:14 a.m. Nov. 25, 2023, and park gates open at 6:15 a.m.