Grandfather mountain is located in Linville,
North Carolina. This breathtaking mountain is
off the famous
Blue Ridge Parkway.
It is not far from the towns of Boone, Hickory,
and Blowing Rock. This area is privately owned
and
one of the most environmentally momentous
mountains in the world. It has been recognized
by the United Nations as an International
Biosphere Reserve. Not only do you see a
spectacular 360 degrees view of natural
landscapes, the mountain is home to eagles,
white tail deer, black bears, and cougars.
There
are other animals and birds you can meet along
numerous different levels of hiking trails.
Check out the different trails and levels of difficulty at
Grandfather Mountain - Hiking in Preserved Land.
Once you enter Grandfather mountain, you have
the choice of driving up to the visitors center or
taking different trails and seeing nature at its
best.
A simple trail at the base of the mountain
called
Woods Walk Trail, and is an excellent
trail for young children and older people.
The trails and roads wind around as you begin to
ascend up the mountain. From the entrance you can also
find picnic areas and some overlooks.
Half way up
to the visitors center, there is a wonderful learning
experience, and you can tour the nature museum. The entire
mountain area is a great way for the entire family
to
learn about the nature and the beauty of Grandfather Mountain.
Whether you are hiking or driving in the car, spectacular
native Rhododendrons, Wildflowers, Mountain
Laurels, and different vibrant Azaleas can be seen
starting in May throughout the summer months.
Beautiful Rhododendron Print with frame
is available at our Nature Store. Photo is an original print that Tom, my husband took. The beauty of
the Rhododendrons can be seen throughout many different trails.
Below the summit is one of the most spectacular
highlights of Grandfather mountain. There is a
two level parking area for hikers, and a
stunning
swinging suspension bridge.
There are fifty steps to get to the bridge
and the bridge is suspended 228 feet up.
It was constructed in 1952 and rebuilt again
in the year 2000. This bridge is known for
its swaying motion in high winds. Strong
wind gusts are not uncommon in this area.
From the parking area there are three
trails that will lead you to different peaks.
Some of the trials can be moderate
to difficult with rocks, ledges,
ladders and ropes.
The beginner hiker
should be aware of the degree of difficulty
of some trails and rangers are available to
give advice.
There are thirteen miles of
different trails to take you through 3,000
acres of some of the most natural landscapes
in the world.
Note Cards featuring the view
from Grandfather Mountain Trail.
At the summit, you are at 5,964 feet up or
1,818 meters. The southern Appalachian
Mountains are famous for its mist and fog
throughout any part of the day.
On a clear
day, visitors can see up to one hundred miles
from the top. Douglas Firs are draped across
the mountain side and show off their beautiful
evergreen color. Below are some photos of different
views through the eyes of a hiker.
Grandfather mountain is by far one of natures
most visited mountains. Thousands of visitors
across the globe anticipate its glorious natural
surroundings.
There is no
overnight camping, so as guests leave at the end of the
day, they are filled with a phenomenal day of taking
in nature and seeing this beautiful mountain and its
natural habitat.
Take a look also at the pages of
the Blue Ridge Parkway and
Photography of Natural Landscapes.
There is so much slender in the southeastern
United States Appalachian region. I hope this page
on another natural landscape has given you a little
more insight of the natural beauty close to my
hometown.
