• Conservation Programs
• Man & Biosphere Reserve Program
• The Nature Conservancy
• Protecting Endangered Species
• Sixteen Distinct Natural Communities
• Blue Ridge Parkway Viaduct

• Interpreting What You See Here
• Naturalist Programs
• Daily Nature Programs in Summer
• Owls Added to Naturalist Program
• The Nature Museum
• Geology
• Birding
• Wildflower Bloom Calendar

Naturalist Programs

Watch a nature program on TV with the sound turned down and you will enjoy the beauty and drama, but turn the sound up and you'll also be enlightened with lots of interesting details that bring extra meaning and interest to the images you see unfolding on the screen.

So it is when you visit Grandfather Mountain in the company of one of our staff naturalists.  Any time you visit you will enjoy the breathtaking scenery and entertaining animals, but tag along with a staff naturalist and you'll take away a much greater understanding of what you have seen and a much deeper appreciation of how rare and wonderful this Mountain truly is.

Staff naturalists Jesse Pope, Gabe Taylor and Katie Gray offer an array of programs that allow them to share their love and enthusiasm for all things natural with Grandfather Mountain's guests.  From slide programs on otters and bears to a hands-on show-and-tell with animal skins and deer antlers, from a close-range interaction with a barred owl to a guided hike across Grandfather's rugged peaks, Grandfather's naturalists will be happy to tailor any sort of interpretive activity that will make your experience of Grandfather Mountain fun and meaningful.

Many programs are offered on a regular schedule and are included in the cost of admission.  Other programs are available on request and will require an additional activity fee.  Phone 828-733-4326 for details or email naturalist@grandfather.com.

2008 Naturalists' Program Schedule

May 17-18
Naturalist Weekend
Joins us for two days filled with guided hikes and special presentations on the birds, wildflowers and nature of Grandfather Mountain. Included with regular admission.

June 2-15
Remarkable Rhododendron Ramble
Our staff naturalists can't wait to share their excitement for the showy rose-lavender Catawba Rhododendron that blooms its way up Grandfatherís slopes throughout the month of June. Join us for special activities designed to help you get the most out of this memorable sight. Included with park admission.

Daily, June 2-August 17
Nature Program
Check the message boards at the Nature Museum or the Top Shop to see what topic the program of the day will cover! Some of the presentations offered include: nature walks, wildflower walks, history talks, interaction with live owls, talks on forest composition, nature near the Swinging Bridge, and animal workshops on butterflies, salamanders, and each of the animals that reside in Grandfather’s animal habitats. Programs are scheduled for 1:00 p.m. and will last about 1 hour. Free with park admission.

Saturday, Sept. 13
Kidfest  
Programs, games, live birds, storytellers, music and fun. 9:00-4:00.  Free with park admission.

Saturday, Sept. 20
Girl Scout Day 
Programs, games, live birds, guided hikes. 10:00-3:30. Girl Scouts admitted free with proof of membership.

Saturday & Sunday,  October 11-12,  October 18-19
The Colors of Grandfather!
A guided hike to discuss the reasons trees change color in the fall and to identify what trees turn what colors. 1:00 p.m. at the Woods Walk. Free with park admission.

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