Grandfather Mountain deal with state closes

By Jason Reagan c/o Mountain Times 

It’s a done deal.

Grandfather Mountain now belongs to North Carolina — well, most of it.

 

Although the state of North Carolina owns 2,456 acres of Grandfather Mountain backcountry, the mile-high bridge will remain under control of the Morton family as a non-profit group. File photo

The N.C. Division of Parks and Recreation announced the closing of the deal on Thursday in which the state bought 2,456 acres surrounding the popular attraction. The acreage is now officially North Carolina’s newest state park.

In March, the N.C. General Assembly unanimously approved the sale and Gov. Beverly Perdue signed the proposal into law on Marsh 31.

Although the state now owns the backcountry area of Grandfather Mountain, the Morton family will continue to operate the landmark as a non-profit in a deal that was announced in September.

Wrapped up in the deal will also be a 749-acre conservation easement retained by family members of Grandfather Mountain founder Hugh Morton, who developed the attraction in the 1950s. The easement includes the famous mile-high swinging bridge, nature canter and wildlife habitats.

“We are pleased that this — phase one of planning for the future of Grandfather Mountain — is now complete” Grandfather Mountain president Crae Morton said, adding he hoped the approval for non-profit status would wrap up by year’s end.

“We are all satisfied that this mountain will be truly protected,” he said. “Emotionally, it hasn’t hit me. Technically, I know its done and I’m excited.”

Morton, Hugh Morton’s grandson, added, “This is a really good thing for the mountain and that’s what counts.”
Grandfather Mountain encompasses portions of Avery, Caldwell and Watauga counties.

Upcoming Events
The Remarkable Rhododendron Ramble: Through June 14 – Join us for special activities with our staff naturalists designed to help you get the most out of the memorable sight of the Catawba Rhododendron at Grandfather.

Animal Habitat Birthday Party: June 16 – Special programs, games, contests and crafts are planned to celebrate the habitat animals’ birthdays. Each visitor will receive a free piece of birthday cake.

85th Annual Singing On The Mountain: June 28 – Free, all-day gospel sing and fellowship held in MacRae Meadows. Camping (without hookups) available. The Rev. Freida Hartley Hobson, pastor of the Forest Hill United Methodist Church in Concord will bring the message.

54th Annual Grandfather Mountain Highland Games: July 9-12 – Over one hundred Scottish clans and societies sponsor this celebration of Scottish dance, music and athletics. Admission charged. For more info 828-733-1333 or www.gmhg.org.

Grandfather Mountain Amateur & Professional Camera Clinic: August 15-16 – Top professionals from the world of news photography gather to share on the hot topics in photojournalism. Free to working press, additional cost for non-professionals. Online registration starts July 15.

Rods in the Park Classic Car, Truck & Vintage Bike Show: August 22 – More than 45 classes from Antique pre-30’s through 1989 cars, trucks, vintage bikes and road tractors. MacRae Meadows. Admission charged. Contact phone number is (828) 963-2723.

6th Annual Grandfather Mountain Kidfest: Sept. 12 – Guided hikes, games, storytellers, music and fun designed to get kids excited about the nature and culture of the N.C. Mountains. Included with park admission.

39th Annual American Girl Scout Day: Sept. 19 – All Girl Scouts and troop leaders are admitted free with proof of membership. Discount admission for other family members. Nature programs will be offered throughout the day.

Bridge-To-Bridge Incredible C hallenge Bike Ride: Sept. 20 – An 102-mile bike ride from Lenoir to Grandfather Mountain. Registration fee. Contact phone number is (828) 726-0616.

BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY LODGING