My family recently drove to the Boone/Blowing Rock NC area and spent part of the day at Grandfather Mountain. If you're planning to spend some time in the area, GF Mountain makes for a nice 2-3 hour stop. Admission is a little pricey at $15 for adults, $7 for kids (free for 4 and under), but if you have a AAA card, you can can save a few bucks per ticket. Be warned that on busy weekends, the wait to get into the gate and to drive up to top of the mountain can be trying, especially with little ones in the car. Thank goodnes for Leapster! We walked around the Split Rock area and found some great photo opps. The kids loved exploring the rocks and trail areas. We made our way to the Fudge Shop where we found some of the most delicious apple cider I've ever had. The kids also enjoyed apple slices with warm caramel sauce. That was yummy! I was in my own little happy place with my chocolate coconut fudge. It was like a 1/4 lb Almond Joy! Next, we visited the animal habitats. The bears were my favorite. We also enjoyed the habitats for otters, cougars, deer and eagles. There are quite a few picnic areas on the property for a relaxing snack or meal with the family. We got back in the car and drove up the very steep and slow road towards the mile-high swinging bridge. We decided to park at the lower level and hike up the half-mile trail to the bridge, avoiding the long car line to get to the top. We had four and five-year-olds with us and the trail up was a little challenging for them, but with our help they were very excited to have completed their first "real hike" as they called it. Walking across the swinging bridge was a lot of fun. It doesn't feel like it really swings. The vistas were breathtaking and the cool breeze blowing through the trees felt divine after that hike. All in all, a fun and adventurous day that the kids won't soon forget. BIG naps on the way home!
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