Ecology
Park Maps and Brochures:
Upcoming Events:
The bears at Grandfather Mountain have been ACTIVE- multiple sightings have been reported in and around the state park.
Seeing a bear in its wild, natural environment is a very special experience; and is not an imminent risk – as long as you keep your distance, act responsibly.
Please adhere to the following guidelines to stay safe in Bear Country:
*Make enough noise so that you do not surprise a bear. You can put bells, or other noise maker on your pack to make noise as you hike.
* Keep your dog on a leash.
* If you notice a bear nearby, pack up your food and trash immediately and vacate the area as soon as possible.
* If a bear approaches, move away slowly; do not run.
* If necessary, attempt to scare the animal away with loud shouts, by banging pans together, or throwing rocks and sticks at it.
* Never approach and never feed a bear.
Campers-
* Do NOT store food in tents.
* Properly store food and scented items like toothpaste by using a bear-proof container/ hang food away from campsite.
* Clean up food or garbage around fire rings, grills, or other areas of your campsite.
* Do not leave food unattended.
* Never run away from a bear- back away slowly and make lots of noise.
For more tips, visit:
http://go.usa.gov/czWbW
https://www.fs.fed.us/visit/know-before-you-go/bears
STATUS HAS NOT CHANGED SINCE SUMMER 2018
CLOSED:
Nuwati and Cragway trails remain closed from storm and flood damage.
Closure includes ALL campsites on Nuwati Trail:
Streamside, The Hermitage, Storyteller’s Rock and The Refuge
Boone Fork footbridge, which connects the Boone Fork parking area with Tanawha and Daniel Boone Scout trails, remains closed due to structural damage from flooding. This bridge is on National Park Service property and a date for repairs has not been provided. Hikers can access the Daniel Boone Scout Trail by parking at the Boulder Field parking area and hiking north on the Tanawha Trail 2.8 miles. Your cooperation is appreciated.
OPENING DATE CANNOT BE ESTIMATED AT THIS TIME
Campers must register at Profile Trailhead regardless of where your hike begins.
Contact us for more information:
(828) 963-9522
grandfather.mountain@ncparks.gov
www.facebook.com/grandfathermountainstatepark
Grandfather Mountain State Park is initiating campsite fees and campsite reservation requirements for all our campsites beginning June 1, 2019. All campers will be required to reserve their campsite in advance by calling 1.877.722.6762 or going to the Reserve America Reservation System at www.reserveamerica.com. Park staff strongly recommends making reservations in advance, as cell service at the trailheads is not reliable and visitors may not be able to connect with Reserve America at the trailheads.
Last updated on: Friday, May 17, 2019Get plant and animal checklists at the park office.
9872 N.C. 105 S.
Suite #6
Banner Elk, NC 28604
828-963-9522
grandfather.mountain@ncparks.gov
GPS: 36.111200, -81.811140
March, April, May, September, October: 8am - 8pm
June, July, August: 8am - 9pm
To accommodate early hikes, park gates are not closed on a daily basis; however, they may close due to weather conditions.
OFFICE HOURS: The state park office is open Monday through Friday, 8am - 4:30pm. You may contact our office during business hours or after hours; leave a message and we will return your call as soon as possible.
Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 9
Linville, NC 28646