Grandfather Mountain

Last week Grandma and Grandpa Wardle came for a quick visit. We always love to have visitors and we were excited to spend some time with them. 

Spinx and Split Rocks

We decided to do something we hadn't done before while they were here. So, on Monday we drove 2 hours to Linville, NC to see Grandfather Mountain. Grandfather Mountain is the highest peak in the Blue Ridge Mountains. It was named "Grandfather" by pioneers who recognized the face of an old man in one of the cliffs. It is considered the most rugged mountain in eastern America.

Grandfather Mountain is home to The Mile High Swinging Bridge, which is America's highest suspension footbridge. It allows breathtaking views and access to Linville Peak. We all crossed the bridge successfully! It was beautiful!!

Once we were on the other side, we hiked up the rocks to the top of the peak (Grandma and Spencer stayed at the bridge...). It was neat to look down on the valley below. The weather was a little overcast that day, so some areas were a little cloudy and foggy, but it was still beautiful. 

This picture was taken from the peak looking down at the bridge we had just crossed. Grandma and Spencer were down there somewhere waiting for us!

It was a lot of fun to climb up the mountain with Grandpa. Connor made me nervous a few times (he would have gone even higher if I would have let him...), but it was worth the hike to see the spectacular views.

After we all climbed back down and went back across the bridge, we drove to the animal habitats.

We saw several very cute black bears

and some silly otters who were enjoying the water. We also saw an eagle and a deer.

Then we went to the Fudge Shop and each sampled delicious fudge and ate ice cream cones. A yummy treat after being outside in the heat. We spent a little bit of time at the Nature Museum as well.

It was a lot of fun to see this beautiful place. We're so glad we got to experience it with Grandma and Grandpa!