Aug 06 Thursday
The southern Appalachians are world-renowned for different types of fungi, from mushrooms to lichens, and are home to more than 2,000 species. Here’s a chance to learn about the lifestyle and habitats of fungi, as well as observe many kinds of fungal fruiting bodies, including mushrooms growing at higher elevations. Participants will learn how to identify them by size, shape and color. You will also inoculate a log with shiitake mushroom mycelium to take home with you. After an interactive introduction to the fungi kingdom, which includes inoculating the logs, we’ll take a short slow stroll in search of mushrooms growing on the mountain to collect representatives of different fungal families to study back in the classroom. Through this workshop and field exploration, you’ll learn about fungal habitats, toxicology and the important roles fungi play in the forest ecosystem. The workshop is designed for beginners, but veteran foragers will also glean new insights. Tickets for this event go on sale online on Grandfather Mountain’s website June 8 at 10 a.m. Advance registration required.
Step back 66 million years and journey through the final chapter of the age of dinosaurs in Dinosaur Evolution—a thrilling immersive experience that brings the Cretaceous world to life. Witness feathered raptors on the hunt, armored giants defending their turf, and the mighty T. rex at the top of the food chain. But even these perfectly evolved creatures couldn’t escape Earth’s most devastating extinction event. Stunning visuals and cutting-edge science reveal how evolution shaped the dinosaurs—and how birds, their modern-day descendants, continue their legacy. It's a prehistoric adventure that will inspire the next generation of paleontologists and conservationists alike.
DINOSAUR! has made their way back to CSC! Get ready to come face-to-face with jaw-dropping fossils, thrilling prehistoric discoveries, and hands-on Jurassic fun for explorers of all ages.
The ROAR of prehistoric fun is her, don’t miss it!
Aug 07 Friday
Explore the mountain after hours with your own personal guides during our Grandfather by Night series! You’ll discover some of the park’s nighttime wonders, watch a stunning sunset (weather permitting) and experience the mountain as never before! The Twilight Hike version will include a hike after sunset to discuss and look for the creatures that are more active after the sun goes down. The group will explore a unique forest ecosystem from top to bottom in search of salamanders, owls, flying squirrels, fireflies and any other creatures they might come across. The Twilight Hike program is not accessible to guests with limited mobility. Participants signed up for this version will need to participate in the hike, as staying behind while the rest of the group hikes is not possible. Advance registration required.
Aug 08 Saturday
Junior Naturalist Program activities throughout the day will be provided specifically for children ages 5-12, but all ages are welcome! Guests will also be able to meet some critters up close and personal around the Wilson Center! Included with admission.
Aug 09 Sunday
Enjoy Yoga on the beautiful rooftop/rooftop floor of the Gantt!It's always a great time for Yoga on the Rooftop. Join us Sundays at 12:30 pm for Yoga with SJ. Sajeedah Jones will lead you through a creative vinyasa flow – a sequence of poses linked to your breath – featuring hands-on assists and upbeat music. Bring a mat or beach towel. The class is designed for students of all levels, all shapes, all sizes, and all ages and will leave you energized, inspired, and ready to take on your week.
Enjoy the one-hour workout and mindfulness practice and then treat yourself to a self-guided tour of our galleries.