Grandfather Mountain

“In this loving tribute Randy Johnson has captured the majesty of this national treasure. Through spectacular photographs and a lively, deeply researched narrative, Johnson celebrates the glory of ‘the Grandfather’ of mountains as no one else has. This volume is both a practical guide for those discovering the area, and a work of art commensurate with the grandeur of the mountain itself.” —Robert Morgan, author of Lions of the West

“Randy Johnson has written the best book on Grandfather Mountain, one of the great landmarks of the Appalachian Mountains. Thanks to Johnson’s undeniably warm and engaging voice, this book reveals in an original and comprehensive way the compelling natural and human history of Grandfather Mountain and the surrounding high country of western North Carolina. It belongs on the bookshelf of everyone who loves North Carolina’s mountains.” —Daniel S. Pierce, University of North Carolina, Asheville

“Randy Johnson’s telling of Grandfather’s story reads like a James Michener novel, with a passion and depth that can only come from being shaped by the mountain. He impresses that passion upon his reader.” —Vicky Jarrett, former editor, Our State Magazine

“Reveals the mountain’s grandeur. . . . This deeply researched book often reads like a novel as Johnson’s passion for his subject shines.”—Mary Cornatzer, News and Observer

“An illustrated coffee-table love story. . . . Johnson’s book illustrates the proposition that you should write about what interests you. His passion and enthusiasm for the place oozes from every paragraph.”—Ben Steelman, Wilmington Star-News

“Grandfather Mountain stands tall as the definitive guide to an essential Western North Carolina locale.”—WNC Magazine

“Grandfather Mountain’s dramatic past revealed. . . . An ode to the newest state park in [Western North Carolina]. . . . The grand-scale coffee table book, with glossy historic and present day photos, detailed topographic maps and hundreds of stories, is a love letter to the mountain.”—Asheville Citizen-Times

“Local folks will appreciate the thorough capturing of their ancestors described throughout the book, and newcomers to the region will be captivated by the astounding narrative.”—Carolina Mountain Life

“Beautifully illustrated and packed with fascinating scientific and historical facts, it’s perfect for outdoors enthusiasts who find themselves housebound during a long winter storm.”—Richmond Times-Dispatch

“In this beautifully illustrated volume, Randy Johnson shares both his knowledge of and love for this iconic mountain.”—Appalachian Voices