hike tours

Enjoy some time in the great outdoors during your time in Avery County! There are over 40 hiking trails within an hour of the Gilmer Retreat Center, so why not get out there and explore? Area trails feature panoramic mountain views, beautiful plant life including rhododendron, some wildlife, lakes, creeks, and even waterfalls!

grandfather mountain

Enjoy admission into Grandfather Mountain during your stay at the Gilmer Retreat Center. Grandfather Mountain is a local attraction that features wildlife animal exhibits, a museum, butterfly garden, gift shop, restaurant, the Mile High Swinging Bridge, panoramic mountain views and more! Grandfather Mountain visits are typically scheduled on an afternoon off, based on work schedule and weather to ensure groups get the most out of the visit.

Thanks to the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation for the beautiful photos featuring Grandfather Mountain.

• Views (Twin Peaks): Photo by Skip Sickler

• Snowy Bridge: Photo courtesy of the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation

• Views2: Photo by Skip Sickle

• Swinging Bridge: Photo by Victoria Darlington

• Gerry: Photo by Deborah Anderson

• Otters: Photo by Frank Ruggiero

• Bald Eagle: Photo by Judi Sawyer

• New Elk Photo: Photo by Skip Sickle