Naturalist Weekend Celebrates 30th Anniversary of Grandfather's Backcountry Trails Program

randy johnsonRandy Johnson, the founder of Grandfather's backcountry trail program, joins the Grandfather Naturalists May 16-18 for the third annual Naturalists Weekend. Come participate in guided hikes and special presentations on the birds, wildflowers, hiking trails and nature of Grandfather Mountain. Read more about it.

The Rare & Endangered Pink Azaleas Bloom in May

Pink-shell azaleaAzaleas have always been the harbinger of spring across the South, but no display is more magnificent that the outbreak of the rare and endangered pink-shell azalea which overwhelms the slopes of Grandfather Mountain during the middle three weeks in May. Their nuance in pink makes the poet grope for a word softer than "pastel" and more fragile than "porcelain." Read more about it.

Progress Report on the New Top Shop

demolitionIn April at the summit of Grandfather Mountain we saw a temporary gift shop go up and the walls of the circa 1961 Top Shop come down. The place was full of activity as souvenirs were moved out and the construction site was made ready. We said our ceremonial goodbyes, and then started the engine on a T-Rex like track hoe that brought the era to an end. Read more about it.

Johnson City Man Wins Winter Weather Contest

Brad Shaw, 29, a farm supply store manager from Johnson City, TN edged out 67 other contestants to win the 2007-2008 Grandfather Mountain winter weather contest. One other competitor answered the same number of questions correctly, but Shaw came 4 mph closer on a tiebreaker question that asked what the highest wind-speed would be over the winter. Read all about it.

Upcoming Activities

June 2-15
The Remarkable Rhododendron Ramble

Be here when the Catawba Rhododendron bloom! Our staff naturalists can't wait to share their excitement for the showy rose-lavender flowers. Participate in special activities designed to help guests get the most out of this unforgettable sight.

June 2 - Aug. 17
Daily Naturalist Programs

Grandfather Mountain naturalists present a special nature program each day during the summer. The one-hour programs are scheduled for 1:00 p.m. and are included in the price of admission.

June 22
84th Singing on the Mountain

Free, all-day gospel sing and fellowship held in MacRae Meadows. The Greenes are the host group and Korean evangelist Dr. Billy Kim will bring the message. The Korean Children's Choir will perform.

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