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While some things around here closed when the fall color season ends,
Grandfather Mountain stays open, weather permitting, year round.
Somethings in the High Country are unique in the area; others in the
eastern part of the United States. One, however,is unique in the
world.
Grandfather Mountain, standing 5,964 feet above sea level, is recognized
by UNESCO as an International Biosphere Reserve. That's a recognition
of the mountain's incredible ecological significance - and the care given
to it by its owner, Hugh Morton.
You can get to Grandfather Mountain several different ways. One
is into Linville from N.C. 105. The most beautiful way from the north,
however, is along the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Linn Cove Viaduct.
America's most remarkable bridge is a good introduction to what is ahead.
After you enter the gates at Grandfather Mountain, you'll drive up
a road that leads to the upper parts of the mountain. There are several
overlooks along the way, each well-worth a stop.
The first level, for want of a better word, is home to two of the mountain's
most popular attractions. The Animal Habitat area features bears,
cougars, eagles and deer.
And, otters. This fall, Grandfather finished work on a world-class
natural habitat for river otters, and two of the playful creatures have
settled in there. Visitors - which have already included Gov. Jim
Hunt and evangelist Jerry Falwell - can watch the otters from the surface
or take a peak at their underwater life. Quick-moving and very sleek,
otters are known for their playfullness and love of water.
The Nature Museum provides an overview of the natural history of the
mountain. There are displays focusing on the animals, birds, plants,
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minerals, geology and other parts of the story of the mountain.
Though not huge, it is a gem of a museum and a regional treasure.
The top of the mountain includes the original museum and the gift shop
area. There is also the Mile-High Swinging Bridge, which, like the
more stable land around it, offers unparalleled views of the region.
Theses views sometimes reach as far as Charlotte to the south and to Virginia
and Kentucky to the north. Because of summer haze, late fall and
winter are actually the best times to see "forever" from the
mountain's summit. There is, as Dr. Elisha Mitchell put it, "a
sea of mountains."
Photographers find themselves searching for those cached rolls of film
when visiting Grandfather. From long-range vistas to close-up of
bear cus, there's "Kodak moments" to last a lifetime here.
Both amateurs and seasoned pros are drawn to the mountain for its beauty
- and the snow scenes are almost unimaginable!
Others take to the trails to explore the mountain. A word of
caution: in winter, weather can change quickly. be aware of forecasted
conditions and be prepared.
From the wild summits to the backcountry trails, from the good eating
at the Nature Museum restaurant to the unique gift items at the museum
shop, there is much to enjoy here.
All in all, Grandfather Mountain is one High Country destination you
don't want to miss.
Grandfather Mountain is located just off the Blue Ridge Parkway and
off U.S. 221 - watch for the signs in Linville. The mountain is open
daily (except for Thanksgiving and Christmas), weather permitting, from
8 am to 5 pm Admission is $9 for adults and $5 for children 4 to 12.
By Jim Thompson
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