November 21, 2008
It’s that special time of year at Grandfather Mountain. Everyone who resides within one of the six High Country counties and also those individuals who work within the High Country are offered $1 admission to Grandfather Mountain. Guests traveling in the same vehicle with residents are also charged only a $1 admission fee. Proof of local employment or residency is required.
Counties represented by the NC High Country Host as being within the High Country region are Mitchell, Avery, Watauga, Ashe, Alleghany and Wilkes. This December discount is extended to guests traveling with residents and also to students of universities and colleges in these counties. A local drivers’ license, college ID or utility bill can be used as proof of residency. For proof of employment, an ID badge or recent pay stub from a local High Country business can be used to obtain the $1 admission.
“We are pleased to continue the Dollar Days tradition," said the Grandfather Mountain President Crae Morton. “Grandfather Mountain would not be what it is without the support of the local community, and we thank everyone for their generosity and good will.”
Tourist traffic tends to slow in the month of December but that doesn’t mean the views are any less spectacular. The 360 degree views from the Mile High Swinging Bridge are always beautiful and can offer even more enjoyment when the surrounding mountains are covered in snow.
Although the bears will be hibernating in December, the Mountain has five other animal exhibits where guests can see cougars, river otters, a bald eagle, a golden eagle and white-tailed deer from close range in their natural surroundings.
Stop inside the Nature Museum at Grandfather Mountain to catch a break from the cold. Mildred’s Grill offers a variety of wonderful foods to warm you up and don't miss the new nature film shot and produced by Jim Morton. This film, titled “May at Grandfather Mountain”, gives you a glimpse of what is to come in the months following winter.
For those who love winter adventure, take a hike on the Bridge Trail. This path makes a gradual climb from the Hikers' parking area to the temporary Top Shop. Along the four-tenths of a mile trail, traverse through rhododendron thickets and past massive rock formations before crossing under the Mile High Swinging Bridge. Also departing from the Hikers’ Parking Area is the Black Rock Nature Trail. This trail runs out a mile and back through northern hardwood and spruce forests. Hikers can pick up a guide at the trailhead that describes 35 natural features along the way.
For a greater outdoor challenge, hike across the high peaks on the Grandfather Trail. Surveys show that visitors to the mountain who choose to venture out across the ridge tops on the Grandfather Trail report that the hike was the highlight of their visit!
The $1 admission price also extends to the trails, with permit outlets selling hiking permits to High Country residents and workers for $1 in December. Hikers are encouraged to be cautious and take care on Grandfather’s rugged ridge trails in December. Always be prepared for patches of ice, wind chill and severe weather changes before setting out.
The Mountain is open every day in December except Christmas Day, weather permitting. The hours of operation are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with ticket sales ending at 4 p.m. For current conditions, phone the Entrance gate at 828-733-4337.
Return to News Library
