Grandfather Mtn State Park Profile Trail — Attraction in Banner Elk

What an amazing hike located in a state park. Using the Profile trail, went up to Calloway and Macrae Peaks. Parking was free from this trail head and opens up at 8am. Nice restrooms, covered area and boot cleaning station available as well. Had to fill out a form detailing who, what, when and where in the event you get lost or don’t make it back by 8PM. This hike ranks high in my list of “feeling adventurous” hikes. Beautiful walk in the lower foothills, steady inclines to test the best of those in shape. Well-marked and maintained trails throughout. Sturdy 4x4 ladders made climbing steep rock sections short and long easier. Steel cables helped maintain traction and grip up steeper wet sections. There were scrambling sections which were fairly technical. Some located within chutes while others along bluff lines with amazing views. Calloway sits just under 6,000’ of elevation with beautiful views of the valley below and the ridge line to Macrae. Macrae on the other hand offers a complete 360 view of everything. Word to the wise. WATER! Went through 3.5L and still had 4...

A very challenging trail to be sure. The first half mile or so isn't bad but then the trail heads up big time. We tried to get to Calloway Peak which is 4.5 miles in but we decided we'd had enough after little over 3 miles. Beautiful and peaceful scenery and lots of dogs. The park rangers are very helpful so be sure to ask...

Went all the way to swinging bridge. Took lower trail to the bridge and upper trail to macrae peak on return. Lower trail is easy and upper trail has many ladders and cables. Plenty of rock scrambling. Did about 14 miles out and back. Super fun, amazing views,...