Mount Mitchell
Mount Mitchell stands tall at 6,684 feet above sea level, earning the title of highest peak in the United States east of the Mississippi River. This majestic peak is approximately 30 miles from Three Peaks and is the focal point of North Carolina’s first state park, Mt. Mitchell State Park. You can drive nearly all the way to the summit, making it easy to explore this natural wonder.
Mt. Mitchell State Park Info
- The Park opens at 7:00 am 7-days a week, year round (closed on Christmas Day). Seasonal hours for the park office, gift shop, restaurant and concessions can be found on the Mount Mitchell State Park website.
- There are no entrance or parking fees at Mt. Mitchell State Park.
- Mt. Mitchell is dog-friendly. Dogs must be on a leash at all times.
- Because of its elevation, Mount Mitchell can be chilly, even in summer. Dressing in layers is strongly recommended.
Amenities at the Summit
- Observation deck where on a clear day, you can enjoy spectacular views and see as far as 85 miles
- Mt. Mitchell Cafe and Eatery
- Seasonal Hours: May-August 10:30 am – 8:00 pm September: 10:30 am – 7:00 pm October: 10:30 am – 6:00 pm
- Concession stand at the summit parking lot has light snacks for purchase
- Gift shop offers crafts, books, and other keepsakes to remember your visit
- Mount Mitchell Museum has hands-on and replica exhibits and is open daily May – October
- 40 table picnic area with two picnic shelters. Each table has a grill. Handicapped accessible tables are available as well.
Hiking Trails
- Easy
- Campground Trail: 0.4-mile one way
- Commissary Trail: 2-mile one way
- Moderate
- Old Mitchell Trail: 2-mile one way
- Balsam Nature Loop: 0.7-mile loop
- Strenuous
- Mount Mitchell Trail: 5.6-mile one way
- Black Mountain Crest Trail: 11.3-mile one way
- Camp Alice Trail: 0.5-mile one way
- Mountains-to-Sea State Trail: 22.9-mile one way