AVERY COUNTY, N.C. – Cody the Bear looked like he was ready for some visitors Thursday and that's just in time.

Grandfather Mountain will be opening its doors for a soft opening Friday morning.

The executive director, Jesse Pope, says several changes have been made around the park for the safety of staff and guests. Several boxes have been painted on sidewalks in front of the animal exhibits and near the Mile High Swinging Bridge.

These boxes are considered safe spots where families can stand together to keep distance from other families. Pope says workers have also put arrows around to keep a one-way traffic flow.

Up on the Mile High Swinging Bridge, customers will only be allowed to travel one direction at a time as well as limit the number of people walking on the bridge at a time.

Customers will be asked to purchase a ticket in advance and reserve a time slot online because only a certain amount of guests will be allowed in the park at a time.

"It's going to feel a little more like a guided tour as opposed to a free-flowing visit like you have had in the past. We will be directing guests where to go in the park so we don't overwhelm the areas of guest​​," Pope says.

The Nature Museum will remain closed during this phase of opening but the top shop visitor center will be available with reservations.