The Mile-High Swinging Bridge engulfed in fog
There is an attraction in Western North Carolina which offers sweeping 360 degree views of the Appalachian Mountains and a mile-high swinging bridge. You can pay the hefty 20$ per person fee (this fee increases almost annually) or you can hike from the bottom to the top for free.
I love hiking, like a good challenge, and am incredibly cheap so hiking to the top is a win-win-win for me. There is something nice about earning the view everyone else pays to see. This hike is hands down my favorite in North Carolina.
A view of the mile-high-swinging bridge
History
The mountain itself was formed approximately 300 million years ago but geologists have found rock formations that date back 1.1 billion years! It was named "Grandfather" by early settlers that saw the face of an old man in one of the cliffs. The mountain certainly has the profile of a grandfather. "Until 2008, Grandfather Mountain was privately owned and operated as a nature preserve and tourist attraction. It was and still is best known for its mile-high swinging bridge, the highest in America, built in 1952 by Hugh Morton."
It is now owned and maintained by the North Carolina State Park System.(source)
The Trails
The Profile Trail is where I begin the journey to the top. It starts at the North Carolina State Parks parking lot and ascends 1775 feet over 3.1 miles. You will definitely be feeling the burn for the next few miles as you are hiking up the mountain for practically the entire 3.1 miles. You will come to a couple view points but nothing to write home about since the real views are up top.
Profile view as seen from the Profile Trail
After completing the Profile Trail you come to an intersection with the Grandfather Trail. Get ready for some ladder climbing and rock scrambling because this trail is 2.4 miles of rugged and oh-so-challenging fun.
One of several ladders located on the trail.
Climbing the ladder to McCrae Peak
You will pass several overnight camping spot. The spot called "The Attic Window" is a favorite. It has a platform for your tent, is shaded and there are excellent views.
The Attic Window
The only downside is that you can not have a fire at this particular spot. There are sites along the trail you can have a fire because camping without a fire can be like macaroni with no cheese.
Panorama from the Grandfather Trail
After visiting the swinging bridge and turning back towards the Profile Trail, you are given an option to continue to Calloway Peak. I highly recommend hitting this spot at sunset for some serious eye candy (If you have headlamps for the hike back).
Enjoying the view from Calloway Peak
If you are ever in Western North Carolina I highly recommend giving Grandfather Mountain and these two trails a visit. There is another trail, The Boone Scout Trail, that connects to the Grandfather Trail, as well. I have not hiked on that one but I hear it is equally as fun as the Profile. Even if you do not plan on visiting, I encourage you to go on hikes in your area of the world and greet the outdoors. Walks in nature do wonders for our mind, body and soul.
Enjoying the Blue Ridge Mountains
Thanks for peeping and happy steeming!
Kiristin
All pictures are my own