Grandfather Mountain in Feb
 

I'll be in Charlotte fron the 15th to the 17th of Feb. Do you think I'm going to be able to go to Grandfather Mountain weather wise? I don't mind the cold, I'm more worry about the snow, rain or ice.<BR>Thank you.

I think they are supposed to be open year round. We tried to stop there at the end of November, however, and the top of the mountain was closed (weather - snow &amp; ice). They charged us a reduced rate to just go to the visitor's center (This is also where the animals are, but we didn't see much.)<BR><BR>The roads in that area are narrow, hilly, and very winding, so I'd check the weather report and/or call the mountain before you try to go. <BR><BR>Their website is www.grandfather.com

You'll definitely want to check the website and call any toll free number they might provide there. We've had the first normal winter in years and years, and that means snow and ice here in the Asheville-Hendersonville area, and that always means more snow and more ice the further north of Asheville you get. So, check out what that website says, and check your forecasts.<BR><BR>If Grandfather Mountain is closed due to bad weather, you might want to consider Chimney Rock Park. Either way, winter is a wonderful time to visit because the air is the cleanest and clearest now, and you can see forever!

You just never know. The roads to the entrance of Grandfather are main state roads. We have been snowed in on that week-end (skiing--that was great!) and we have had pouring rain (bummer). It could be anything. Beautiful and fun area with lots to do.

Either way (Grandfather or Chimney Rock) it will be cold &amp; windy on top. Dress appropriately. The view may not be good either based on the weather we are having right now. (I'm in Charlotte).

Unfortunately I was not able to go to either park; they both were closed due to the freezing rain/sleet. My mistake was not to call them before heading towards the parks. But I had a great time in Charlotte.
Anyway, I'm planning a similar trip for next spring or summer. Visit both parks and drive the entire Blue Ridge Parkway, from NC to Virginia.

Let me encourage you to try to do this trip if possible. Seeing the mountains in winter is far less crowded, and without the summer haze and leaves, you'll have some great views.

As mentioned, the tricky part will be avoiding the closed roads due to winter weather.

Be sure to follow BrutForce's suggestion of dressing appropriately. I would recommend over dressing with layers since the winds can be very high on Grandfather.

Let us know if you take the trip.

Mike Honeycutt