• January 17th, 2012

• Author:

  Echota   

At Echota, there’s a good chance you wake with the familiar profile of Grandfather Mountain from the window in your mountain home. Whether you enjoy the view of Grandfather Mountain or the breathtaking Watauga River Valley, you’re just minutes away from one of the most celebrated nature preserves in the world. Grandfather Mountain is a privately owned and operated park offering exceptional natural beauty and some of the best views anywhere, especially from the park’s world-famous mile-high bridge. At 5,964 feet, Grandfather Mountain is the highest peak in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Grandfather Mountain is named for the peaks and crests that seem to resemble the profile of an old man lying down. It is a biologically diverse mountain designated by the United Nations as an International Biosphere Reserve. Grandfather Mountain is the perfect place for a family outing. Pack a picnic basket and plan on hiking the South’s finest Alpine trails. You might even catch a glimpse of the local wildlife, including black bears, river otters, eagles and deer.

Attractions at Grandfather Mountain include the Swinging Bridge, a Nature Museum, 12 miles of regularly maintained trails, over 100 picnic tables and grills, and guided tours. However you spend your day, Grandfather Mountain is not to be missed.

• Free Parking
• Handicap Accessibility
• Pets Allowed
• Picnic Area
• Public Restroom

The Grandfather Mountain Highland Games, the premier Scottish Highland games and gathering of clans has been held at Grandfather Mountain for more than 54 years. The annual celebration of Scottish dancing, piping, drumming, music and Gaelic culture attracts visitors from across the country.