 May 3, 2012: The Critter Crawl
This brand new 5K race starts in MacRae Meadows and ends at the top of Grandfather. Proceeds benefit the Mountain's eagle habitat renovation fund. Online registration begins March 1.
May 5-6, 2012: Guided Hike
The “Spring to MacRae” hike offers guests the opportunity to visit MacRae Peak and witness life returning to Grandfather after a long winter slumber. Hikers traverse 0.9 miles, using cables and seven ladders to gain almost 600 feet in elevation. This half-day hike begins at 9 a.m. and costs $15 in addition to park admission.
May 11-13, 2012: Naturalist Weekend
Join us for a weekend filled with guided hikes and special presentations on the nature of Grandfather Mountain. Included with park admission.
June 1-3, 2012: Nature Photography Weekend
Hear presentations from top nature photographers in the evenings and photograph spectacular scenery and native animals during the day. Additional cost. Online registrations begins April 2.
June 2-17, 2012: The Remarkable Rhododendron Ramble
Join us for special activities with staff naturalists designed to help you get the most out of the memorable sight of the Catawba Rhododendron at Grandfather. Programs at 1 p.m. daily. Included with park admission.
June 13, 2012: Animal Birthday Party
Grandfather Mountain celebrates the birthdays of all the animals in the park with games, contests, crafts and surprises. Included with park admission.
June 16 & 17, 2012: Guided Hike
Ridgeline of Diversity” hike is designed to showcase the unparalleled diversity of animal and plant life in this unique area, while also providing guests with a full panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. This journey takes hikers 2.4 miles, traversing large boulders, climbing ladders and gaining 700 feet in elevation. This trip is an all day commitment and is not for the inexperienced hiker. It begins at 9 a.m. and costs $35 in addition to half-price park admission.
June 24, 2012: 88th Annual Singing on the Mountain
Free, all-day gospel sing and fellowship held in MacRae Meadows. Camping (without hookups) available.
July 12-15, 2012: 57th Annual Grandfather Mountain Highland Games
Over one hundred Scottish clans and societies sponsor this celebration of Scottish dance, music, and athletics. Admission charged. See our Grandfather Mountain Highland Games Guide.
July 27-29, 2012: The Grandfather Campout
A special opportunity to camp in MacRae Meadows and take part in day and night activities led by Grandfather's naturalists and interpretive rangers. Additional cost. Registration begins May 1. For more information and registration details: 828-733-4326.
July 28 & 29, 2012: Guided Hike
The“Grandfather’s Attic” hike to Attic Window Peak and Indian House Cave over the most rugged terrain on the mountain. During this hike, interpretive rangers will share the story of Grandfather and past historic events that shaped the Mountain into what it is today. This trek gains 600 feet in elevation during the 1.2-mile hike. It is a half-day trip that begins at 9 a.m. and costs guests $25 in addition to park admission.
August 18-19, 2012: Grandfather Mountain Amateur and Professional Camera Clinic
Top photographers gather to share on the nuts and bolts of making good photographs. Free to working press, additional cost for non-professionals. Online registration begins July 16.
August 25 & 26, 2012: Guided Hike
“Nature on the Edge” hike showcases the resiliency of plants and animals in the adverse conditions of the mountain. Throughout the journey, interpretive rangers discuss the needs for habitat and point out signs of survival. This hike travels to MacRae Peak across 0.9 miles using cables and seven ladders to gain almost 600 feet in elevation. This is a half-day trip that begins at 9 a.m. and will cost guests $15 in addition to park admission.
September 16, 2012: Bridge-to-Bridge Incredible Challenge Bike Ride
This 102-mile bike ride departs downtown Lenoir and makes its way uphill to Grandfather Mountain. Registration fee. For more info: 828-726-0616.
October 6, 2012: Creatures of the Night and Bonfire Delight
Stories told by firelight and rare after-dark tours of the Mountain than include a nocturnal animal prowl. Additional cost. Reservations required: 828-733-8715.
October 13, 14, 20 & 21, 2012: The Colors of Grandfather
A guided walk led by interpretive rangers to discuss the reasons trees change color in the fall and to identify what trees turn what colors. Programs at 1 p.m. daily. Included with park admission.
October 27, 2012: Beary Scary Halloween
Celebrate Halloween at Grandfather with crafts, nature programs, trick or treating, and a costume contest. Included with park admission. Children in costume get in for half price.
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