One of the top highlights and memories of visits to Grandfather Mountain nature park is walking across the famous Mile High Swinging Bridge. Since 1952, visitors have βoohedβ and βaahedβ at the bridgeβs 360-degree panoramic views. Americaβs highest suspension footbridge gives easy access to the spectacular views atop Grandfather Mountainβs Linville Peak, elevation 5,305 feet.
TheΒ 228-foot suspension bridgeΒ spans anΒ 80-foot chasmΒ at more than one mile in elevation (hence the name!). To reach the Mile High Swinging Bridge, drive theΒ two-mile, winding scenic roadΒ up the mountain to the summit parking area by the Top Shop. Climb 50 stairs adjacent to the parking area or inside the Top Shop to reach the short pathway to the bridge. Also, an elevator in the Top Shop takes you to the third floor for a level walk to the bridge.
Top Shop
Located adjacent to the Bridge, theΒ Top ShopΒ features a gift shop, snacks, restrooms, elevator and second-floor exhibition area. Also get the latest park information and trail maps.Β Read more.
Accessibility
Inside the Top Shop, an elevator makes the Mile High Swinging Bridge accessible to people with mobility challenges, including those in wheelchairs. From the Top Shop, there is a paved 50-yard path to the bridge.Β Read more about our accessibility.
Tickets & Hours
Walking across the Mile High Swinging Bridge is included in your Grandfather Mountain admission ticket that includes many otherΒ things to doΒ in our nature park.Β Buy tickets online and book a reservation time to enter the park. You do not need a separate reservation for the bridge. Itβs open, weather permitting, every day of the year except Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.Β See hours.
More to Explore
Before or after visiting the Mile High Swinging Bridge, allow time to enjoy other parts of the mountain: wildlife habitats,Β Wilson Center for Nature Discovery, restaurant, hiking trails, roadside overlooks, picnic areas and more.Β See more Things to Do.
Nearby Hiking Trails
Trailheads to many of the Grandfather Mountain hiking trails are located near the Swinging Bridge. In fact, the 0.4 mileΒ Bridge TrailΒ takes you beneath the bridge, starting from the Black Rock parking area just below the summit. For details on our nearby trails,Β go to our Hiking Guide.
