Epic Grandfather Mountain Hike

Last Sunday was a perfect weather day so we broke down and paid the admission fee into Grandfather Mountain State Park. And THIS is just from the parking lot!

Our first stop was the iconic Mile High Swinging Bridge. Spectacular views but just takes a minute to walk across.

Check it off the bucket list. We were here one other time years ago but it was too foggy to see anything.

The hike started off fairly mild. We did have to sign in and there were warning signs everywhere about proper footwear, etc. A rope to get up a steep section. We can do this.

And the 1st of many LADDERS to get up steep sections.

This was a triple ladder section with cables along the rocky edge of the mountain near the top.

I was actually shaking and thinking this hike is NOT kid appropriate.

At the top, Aaron says, "Mom, this is my favorite hike ever!" Notice the ladder down below.

But oh WOW the views!

And the cloudless sky was a spectacular Carolina blue. I heard one of the rangers say this was the best day yet this year.

Not only was it clear but it was only 70 degrees! Walking along the rocky edge. Stay in the center kids!

Climbing another ladder to McGrae peak at 5844ft. We hiked an amazing 1 mile to get here. I could've turned around at this point.

But Josh wanted to make it to Calloway Peak, another 1.4 miles away. What!? The trail goes through a hole in the boulders.

And I see no trail here! Notice my people climbing straight up this boulder field.

Phew! Stopping for a quick snack and water break. We're not making our usual 30 minute mile.

These two...almost heaven for them.

I think that's the peak way off in the distance. So everyone makes it, except Benny and I stopped just short for a break. Josh was satisfied but we had to book it back to get to our car before closing.

Back down the crazy steep boulder field. The VIEW!!!

We took a slightly different way back. Going down ladders. So fun!

Deer! Who wants to pose for a picture? Thanks Aaron!

I'm SO impressed the kids survived! I was exhausted by the end of the 5 miles. Worth every $ we paid to visit this place and experience such a unique hike.