The vistas are the payoff for climbing up, on, and over this rocky mountain on the several trail routes.
The Grandfather Mountain website does not recommend car GPS or website directions as they attempt to take “short cuts” on narrow winding mountain roads.
The Grandfather Mountain area offers the following trails to explore. Most are challenging to the average adult, thus choose carefully. Fantastic views can be found at many points.
A suggested 7-mile trip taken by the club back in 1994 would be to start on Highway NC-105, hike up on the Profile Trail, cross the top ridge on Grandfather Mountain Trail, and then descend down to the Blue Ridge Parkway on the Daniel Boone Trail. The route has around 2000 ft. elevation gain up to Calloway Peak. This path was done as a day hike and backpacking overnighter at the Hi Balsam shelter.
A sturdy pair of hiking boots is recommended since many of the backcountry trails are rocky and steep.
If entering the main park, the fee is $15 per adult (age 13-59) or $13 per senior (60+).
Dogs are allowed, but must be on 6 ft leash. The trails are difficult enough without being tethered, so recommend leaving Fido at home.
Hiking in the Grandfather Mountain State Park from the Blue Ridge Parkway, US-221, or NC-105 is free, but registration required at the trailhead for safety.
Click on the trail line to show its name.
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