Grandfather Mountain — named for the craggy face that elders saw in its summit profile — rises to 5,946 feet and is among the most striking peaks in the eastern United States. The attraction at the top, run by a non-profit, includes the Mile High Swinging Bridge, a wildlife habitat with native species (black bears, river otters, cougars, eagles), and a small natural history museum.
The trails on the back side of the mountain are not for the timid: the Grandfather Trail traverses a series of rocky outcrops with ladders and cables, and the views from Calloway Peak make the effort worthwhile on a clear day. There is also a less strenuous nature trail loop near the swinging bridge.
About 20 minutes south of Boone via US-221 or the Blue Ridge Parkway.