This Land, Your Land

The state has closed on its $12 million purchase of 2,456 acres at the crest of Grandfather Mountain, which will become a state park, the Associated Press reports.

Family-owned Grandfather Mountain Inc. will continue to operate 749 acres that include a nature center, wildlife habitats and the "mile-high" swinging bridge alongside the state park.

Twelve miles of trails through the new park will be temporarily managed by state rangers and company employees, and require permits to use, according to The Charlotte Observer.

The General Assembly approved the acquisition in March.