Cross the Mile High Swinging Bridge on Grandfather Mountain

Step onto the Mile High Swinging Bridge for a unique blend of adventure and nature's beauty, high above North Carolina's scenic landscape.

Last updated: Apr 2024

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Adults $24, Children (4-12) $10
More than 500 Miles from you
State Gem: Exceptional experiences within your state that are bucket list-worthy
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Description

Step onto the Mile High Swinging Bridge for a unique blend of adventure and nature's beauty, high above North Carolina's scenic landscape. As you venture to Grandfather Mountain, prepare to be captivated by the Mile High Swinging Bridge, a marvel that combines nature's grandeur with human ingenuity. This iconic bridge, hovering above an 80-foot chasm, offers unparalleled 360-degree vistas from Linville Peak's summit, making it a highlight for visitors since its inauguration in 1952. Whether you ascend the 50 stairs beside the Top Shop or opt for the elevator, reaching the bridge is an adventure in itself, accessible to all. Beyond the bridge, the mountain beckons with its wildlife habitats, hiking trails, and the Top Shop's amenities, ensuring a memorable journey through this breathtaking slice of North Carolina's High Country.

Perfect for

For solo

For two

For families with kids

For parents and grownups

Outdoorsy

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Itinerary

Arrival: Enter Grandfather Mountain at 2050 Blowing Rock Hwy, Linville, NC.
Top Shop: Visit the Top Shop for gifts, snacks, and the elevator to the bridge.
Bridge Crossing: Walk the short, paved path to the Mile High Swinging Bridge.
Explore More: After crossing, consider hiking to Linville Peak or visiting the wildlife habitats.

Location

2050 Blowing Rock Hwy, Linville, NC 28646

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Packing List

Comfortable walking shoes
Camera or smartphone for photos
Layered clothing for changing mountain weather
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Water bottle

4.8 ● Google reviews

Definitely worth the admission and trip. You may purchase tickets online and get eligible discounts online only. The location is privately owned and staffed with plenty of educational sensorial and facilities. Stopped by the educational facility when enjoying g the drive up, listening to their audio guide provided with your admissions. The end of the journey is the swinging bridge. If you cross it, enjoy the various sceneries of the top of the world.

We unknowingly ended up at the Highland Games. It was quite frustrating, but definitely a unique experience. After a few hours, we were able to get up to grandfather mountain. There were beautiful views. The restrooms at the gift shop needed maintained a bit better, but with the number of people visiting, I could see how it could get out of control easily. Expect lots of people when going up here. The drive can be intimidating. And bring your courage to walk the bridge.

Book your time in advance! I only figured that out from the reviews (thank you fellow reviewers!!). I was able to book late last night for today but I was glad it was good to go when we got there! They gave us an audio tour usb to listen to as we drove up the mountain. There were so many amazing views, the wild life center was awesome, and of course we had fun on the bridge! My 5 year old loved it but we kept a close eye on him/ had him hold our hand because of the height and rocky areas. Not dangerous for little kids as long as you keep hold of them the entire time. Also it is very friendly to those who have a hard time with stairs, there were several elevators! You can also avoid the trails and drive to the top.

This is such a beautiful view off of grandfather Mountain. You should definitely do it. One of the good little tricks are if you can handle it is to park in the lower parking and hike up to the bridge. It’s a very beautiful hike. They line the trail with natural stone steps. It could be slippery if it’s wet outside, but it’s a nice short hike to the bridge and then you could hike back down. It is very pricey to get in here for some reason it was 36 bucks a person. I do not think it’s worth that price. It is a privately owned side of the mountain. The backside is all nature and it’s owned by the state of North Carolina, so if you’re a very good hiker, you can get in for free hiking through the backside look up some trails. If you are not, don’t even attempt it.

This was more beautiful than I could have asked for or imagined. We parked at the lower lot and took the 0.4 mile hiking trail to the bridge. Highly recommend! It looks like something out of a fairy tale.

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