Grandfather Mountain Fall Colors from Mile High Swinging Bridge

Viewing Grandfather Mountain fall colors from the middle of the mile high swinging bridge is an autumn experience to remember for a lifetime.

Grandfather Mountain, Blue Ridge Parkway, Lynville, North Carolina

There are lots of things to see and do in autumn at Grandfather Mountain. Fall foliage season is a beautiful time to visit, and easily the highpoint of most visits is the walk across the 228-foot mile high swinging bridge that spans a deep gorge filled with brilliant fall colors. The suspension bridge is located near the top of Grandfather Mountain. Fall foliage and scenic views are incredible, with vibrant shades of red, orange and yellow filling the gorge below and covering the surrounding mountain sides.

There is a look off point at the far end of the swinging bridge. The breathtaking panoramic view of North Carolina's blazing fall foliage spreading across the Blue Ridge Mountains in every direction, and flowing down into the distant valleys, is amazing

The modern steel-constructed suspension bridge is 80 feet above the gorge, and near the peak of Grandfather Mountain which is about a mile above sea-level. Bring a jacket as cold winds frequently blow across the bridge and add to the adventure of crossing the gorge. There are 50 stairs to climb from the parking lot to reach the mile high swinging bridge.

Fall Foliage, Fall Colors, North Carolina

Fall Foliage, Fall Colors, North Carolina

If you want to see more Grandfather Mountain fall colors and distant views of fall foliage, there are many hiking trails to choose from. Some of the hikes are easy, but there are also strenuous trails for serious hikers only. The trailheads for the hiking trails are near the parking lot and the entrance to the swinging bridge.

Grandfather Mountain is located 15 miles from Blowing Rock on US Highway 221, one mile south of the Blue Ridge Parkway at mile post 305. Admission is charged to cross the swinging bridge and for some activities. Plan to arrive early if you want to avoid the crowds. There are picnic tables and a restaurant, as well as a nature museum, wildlife habitat and 12 miles of hiking trails.

More Fall Foliage Destinations

Max Patch
Pack a picnic lunch and drive to Max Patch in fall. Follow curving two-lane country roads through rural countryside, small mountain towns and forest ablaze with autumn colors on this favorite Asheville fall foliage tour.

Moses Cone
Enjoying fall colors at Moses Cone Memorial Park is as easy as sitting in a rocking chair on the broad porch of the Flat Top Manor on a warm autumn day.

Mount Mitchell
Fall foliage season is a great time to visit the highest mountain in the eastern US, when a crisp clear autumn day provides long range views of fall colors.

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