Discover the Majesty of Grandfather Mountain State Park
Explore the natural beauty of Grandfather Mountain State Park, home to breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and endless outdoor adventures in North Carolina.
Grandfather Mountain State Park is a breathtaking natural wonder in North Carolina, offering stunning views, diverse wildlife, and a plethora of outdoor activities for tourists to enjoy year-round. With its iconic swinging bridge and rich biodiversity, it's a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventurers.
A brief summary to Grandfather Mountain State Park
- 9872 Highway 105 South, Banner Elk, NC, 28604, US
- +1828-963-9522
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-8 pm
- Thursday 8 am-8 pm
- Friday 8 am-8 pm
- Saturday 8 am-8 pm
- Sunday 8 am-8 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure parking and enjoy cooler morning temperatures while hiking.
- Check the weather before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
- Dress in layers, as temperatures can vary significantly between the base and the summit.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views from the Swinging Bridge and various lookout points.
- Consider visiting during the fall to witness the spectacular display of autumn foliage.
Getting There
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Car
From any point in Pisgah National Forest, navigate towards NC-280 S. Follow signs towards Brevard, then merge onto US-64 E. Continue on US-64 E, and when you reach the intersection with NC-105 N in Banner Elk, turn right. Follow NC-105 N for about 4 miles. Grandfather Mountain State Park will be on your right at 9872 Highway 105 South, Banner Elk, NC 28604. There is an entrance fee of $20 per vehicle.
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Public Transportation
Take a bus from Asheville to Banner Elk. Check local transit schedules for the best routes. Once you arrive in Banner Elk, you can use a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft to reach Grandfather Mountain State Park. The distance is about 4 miles from the town center to the park, and rideshare costs typically range from $10 to $15.
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Bicycle
If you are in Pisgah National Forest and prefer biking, it is advisable to start from the nearest campground or trailhead. Take the roads leading to Banner Elk and follow NC-105 N. Be cautious as this route has minimal bike lanes and can be steep in areas. Make sure to wear a helmet and bring necessary supplies. It's about a 4-mile ride from the center of Banner Elk to the park entrance.
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Walking
If you are near the Grandfather Mountain area, you might consider walking if you are staying nearby. It is advisable to check your location first; walking from downtown Banner Elk to the park entrance is about 4 miles and involves navigating along NC-105. Ensure you have adequate walking gear and stay safe, as the roads can be busy.
Discover more about Grandfather Mountain State Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Graffiti Rockside
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Pilot Ridge Overlook
3.6 km
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Flat Rock
7.1 km
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Banner House Museum
7.5 km
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Avery County Museum
9.9 km
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NC High Country Host Regional Visitor Center
15.1 km
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BobaBing
15.4 km
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Thunder Hill Overlook
16.1 km
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The Cardinal
16.3 km
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River & Earth Adventures
16.4 km
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Elk Creek Outfitters
16.5 km
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High Mountain Expeditions - Booking Office
16.8 km
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High Gravity Adventures Zip Line & Aerial Park
16.9 km
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1903 Dougherty House Museum
16.9 km
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Tweetsie Railroad
16.9 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Grandfather Mountain
1.0 km
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Yonahlossee Overlook
1.0 km
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Linn Cove Viaduct
1.1 km
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Mile High Swinging Bridge
1.6 km
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Rough Ridge Lookout - Grandfather Mountain, NC.
1.8 km
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Picnic Area
2.1 km
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Forrest Gump Curve
2.1 km
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Wilson Center for Nature Discovery
2.2 km
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Beacon Heights Overlook Trail
2.6 km
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Grandfather Mountain Entrance Gate
3.3 km
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Peak Mountain
3.3 km
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Green Mountain Creek Falls
3.7 km
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Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster
3.9 km
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Sugar Creek Gem Mine
4.3 km
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Hawksnest Zipline
4.4 km
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Essential places to dine
Mildred's Grill
2.2 km
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Reid's Cafe & Catering Co.
2.3 km
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The Pedalin' Pig
2.4 km
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Bella's Italian Neighborhood Restaurant
3.9 km
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Grandview Restaurant
5.2 km
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Artisanal Restaurant
5.9 km
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Tartan Restaurant
6.1 km
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Stonewalls Restaurant
8.0 km
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Sorrento's Italian Bistro
8.1 km
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Chef's Table at Sorrento's
8.1 km
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LP on Main
8.2 km
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Gamekeeper Restaurant
11.5 km
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Over Yonder Restaurant
12.2 km
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Bistro Roca
12.7 km
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Twigs
13.4 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Grandfather Mountain Top Shop
1.5 km
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Shoppes at tynecastle
2.4 km
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Banner Elk Soap & Candle Co.
4.0 km
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Those Were the Days
4.0 km
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Ski Country Sports
4.1 km
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Provisions on Sugar
4.3 km
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Gilded Age Antiques
4.8 km
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Grandfather Scottish
6.1 km
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Old Hampton Store & Barbeque
6.3 km
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Reilly’s Shop
7.9 km
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Back Alley Pickers
10.0 km
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Land of Oz Gift Shop & Museum
10.1 km
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Fred's General Mercantile
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Original Mast General Store
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Mast General Store Annex
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Luna Thai & Sushi Restaurant
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Highlanders Grill And Tavern
2.5 km
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Blind Elk Tap Room
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Highlands Prohibition Kitchen
8.1 km
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The Patio Grill at Linville Land Harbor
10.1 km
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5506'
10.6 km
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Bullwinkels
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Alpen Restaurant & Bar
10.8 km
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Mile High Tavern
11.6 km
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The Town Tavern
12.9 km
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Storie Street Grille
12.9 km
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Six Pence Pub
13.0 km
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The Speckled Trout Restaurant and Bottle Shop
13.1 km
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The Best Cellar
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Rivers Street Ale House
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