The Grandfather Trail, also known to some as “The Ladders” trail, is the pinnacle of all hikes on Grandfather Mountain. You can find this trail located in Linville, North Carolina. The trail is rather challenging and strenuous. It is recommended for advanced hikers only, although no special equipment is required for this trail. I personally feel like it was more mentally challenging vs physical.
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Trail Access
The easiest way to access the Grandfather Trail is from the Top Shop parking lot near the infamous Mile High Swinging Bridge attraction. In order to access this lot, you must pay an entrance fee. You can buy tickets here in advance, or you can pay an entry fee at the gate.
The fee covers admission to the Mile High Swinging Bridge, the native wildlife exhibits, and trails. If you prefer not to pay a fee, you can also access the Grandfather Trail from the Profile trail or Daniel Boone Scout Trail located within the State Park.
The Grandfather Trail
The trail is approximately 2.4 miles each way to Callaway Peak from the Top Shop parking area. Another alternative is to make a loop hike to MacRae Peak (0.9 miles) and take the Underwood Trail back to the parking area. This loop is known as Raven Rocks Loop.
Sketchy Weather Conditions
If you are thinking of attempting the Grandfather Trail, I always recommend getting an early start. Please do check the weather prior to traveling though. The wind speed is known to get extremely high and the conditions can become quite foggy.
I have attempted this hike before on an extremely windy, and foggy morning. The trail was closed and we spent the morning viewing the wildlife exhibits and exploring the rest of the park until the weather cleared. Learn from my mistakes and check the weather prior to traveling! You can check the Facebook page or the website for information on closures. You can also call 828-733-4337.
Cables and Ladders and Views, Oh MY!
I have always parked in the Top Shop parking lot and began my hike at the Grandfather Trail trailhead at the back of the lot. Please leave no trace behind and use only the designated paths.
The initial climb is a little steep and slow. Nothing too exciting. You will then start encountering the cables and ladders that you will use to scale the sheer rock face. If you have a true fear of heights and you are uncomfortable with traversing a ladder bolted to the side of a mountain, this hike is NOT for you.
Below is an example of the ladders that you must climb in order to reach the peaks. Most of them are not incredibly fear inducing, but in my opinion, the last 3 ladders prior to reaching MacRae’s peak are the scariest.
These vertical ladders will make your legs feel like jello if you decide to look down.
This ladder though….this is the one that always gives me a tinge of anxiety. This picture does not do it justice. The angle at which it is fixated on the rock face is lateral instead of facing the mountain head on. The drop off the left side of the ladder is extremely FAR.
At 0.9 miles you will reach MacRae’s peak. The peak sits at 5,844 feet in elevation. In order to see the jaw-dropping 360 degree views, you must climb this final ladder.
We made our way back to the parking lot via the Underwood Trail. This trail is a little easier to navigate back down. It contains less ladders than the Grandfather trail. I prefer to make a loop, because I don’t feel as confident going down the ladders and cables.
Wrapping up: Grandfather Trail Hike
I hope this post has either encouraged you to go out and try the “Ladders” or it has cemented your reasons for not going if you are afraid of heights. The Grandfather Trail is honestly such a rewarding trail. The views are breathtaking and at the end, it will leave you thinking “Did I really just do that?”
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