NORTH CAROLINA -- As the partial government shutdown continues, Grandfather Mountain is offering complimentary admission to employees affected.

Federal employees will receive free admission to Grandfather Mountain, with proof of federal employment, such as federal ID or a pay stub. 

“Being next-door neighbors with the Blue Ridge Parkway, we sympathize with the furloughed employees,” said Jesse Pope, executive director and president of the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation, the nonprofit organization that owns and operates the Villein, N.C., nature park. “So, we wish to extend complimentary admission to the park through the duration of the shutdown to all affected federal employees, as a small token of our appreciation.”

Grandfather Mountain is open daily, weather permitting.