The winding roads that lead to the massive mountain are lined with lush, spruce-fir trees. If you’re looking for serenity and some out of this world views, look no further than this stunning mountain. Mt. Mitchell North Carolina is beautiful! For the East Coast it doesn’t get much better. It is something to behold. Located in Burnsville, NC, the mountain reaches a staggering 6,684 feet! It’s the highest peak in the Appalachian Mountains and at its summit you can see as far as 85 miles.
Mt. Mitchell North Carolina is an outstanding natural wonder located in North Carolina. Standing as the highest peak east of the Mississippi, Mt Mitchell is a must-see for any outdoor enthusiast. Visiting Mt Mitchell will give you the chance to experience one-of-a-kind beauty while uncovering some amazing secrets from the past.
Best time of the day to visit:
If you want to hike Mount Mitchell, you’re going to want to get an early start. Mount Mitchell has a handful of trails to choose from, ranging in difficulty. If you’re not a big hiker, the sunsets at the mountain aren’t too shabby either.
Best time of the year to visit:
Due to its high altitude, Mount Mitchell can get pretty chilly. We recommend visiting in the summertime when the weather on Mt. Mitchell generally stays pretty comfortable (in the 60s-70s).
Things to do at Mt. Mitchell North Carolina:
Observation Deck
The observation deck at Mt. Mitchell is a breathtaking experience. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding areas up and down the Blue Ridge Mountains. On a clear day you can see all the way to Roanoke, Virginia and even Grandfather Mountain in North Carolina. It’s considerably cooler than lower elevations, which makes it a great destination for summer visitors looking to escape the heat! A must-see attraction at Mt. Mitchell is the observation deck. Here people can marvel at much of what nature has to offer. There are unbelievable 360 degree views of this majestic mountain range.
Hike the Balsam Nature Trail on Mount Mitchell
Spanning one mile and featuring many winding bends, this trail will take you up nearly 500 feet in elevation, offering gorgeous views that extend over 10 miles as you climb ever higher. The Balsam Nature Trail contains five distinct subsections, highlighting one from each of the five mountain ridges it ascends upon. As you walk along the path, you can admire a diverse array of rare and gorgeous flora species such as Fraser fir trees and rocky outcroppings unique to Mount Mitchell’s ecosystem. Taking some time to explore the Balsam Nature Trail on Mount Mitchell can be an amazing outdoor experience for nature enthusiasts of all ages!
Mount Mitchell Scenic Byway
There’s nothing quite like taking a trip along the Mount Mitchell scenic byway. Stretching for 52 miles through beautiful North Carolina, this winding road gives travelers views of thick pine forests, rolling hills, and open skies. The byway passes several picturesque mountain towns and culminates with a breathtaking vista at the 6,687 foot summit of Mount Mitchell, the highest point east of the Mississippi River. When you hit the roadway, be sure to bring your camera because this is one drive you won’t soon forget!
Mount Mitchell Trail
If you are looking for a moderately challenging trail with plenty of breathtaking views, the Mount Mitchell Trail 11 miles is ideal. It offers stunning vistas of North Carolina’s Smoky Mountains and blue ridge area. Many hikers who have taken the trail have commented on its dynamic changes in vegetation, from lush moss-laden forests to flowering meadows to jutting bald summit. The trail takes about 4-5 hours to complete and requires that you ascend 3000 feet along its course. Although the trail is an adventurous one, with several steep sections as well as rocks and roots, it offers remarkable views of the surrounding valleys and mountains — making every step worthwhile! If the weather on Mt. Mitchell permits there are some great camping options on this trail too!
Other things to visit when when visiting the Mt. Mitchell North Carolina Area
Craggy Gardens
Craggy Gardens is a stunning hike just off of North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Parkway. The area is known for its incredible vistas, and is home to both an old-growth forest of oak and spruce trees, as well as a wildflower meadow. During the spring, these two areas come alive with vibrant blooms of native wildflowers. It’s truly breathtaking to see the meadow covered in an explosion of color! With a multitude of activities available for adventurers of all levels, including camping, hiking and rock climbing, Craggy Gardens should be at the top of any nature lovers must-see list.
Emerald Village
Emerald Village Spruce Pine provides a unique and memorable experience for visitors. From the museum full of history to various miners cottages and interpretive trails, this mountain retreat is one of the most interesting historical sites in western North Carolina. Dig deep underground at the open-air gem mine, where gemstones can be found daily. Inside the museum, visitors can discover minerals from all over the world and enjoy interactive exhibits that explain how precious stones are formed under the earth’s surface. With knowledgeable tour guides to answer any questions, Emerald Village Spruce Pine is an educational adventure sure to leave lasting memories.
Roaring Fork Falls
Visiting the Roaring Fork Waterfalls is a must-see if you’re traveling through Georgia. The majestic backdrop of the Chattahoochee National Forest creates an awe-inspiring setting for these peaceful, serene falls. Feel the fresh mist while you stand atop the falls. Then enjoy walking the interpretive trail to view each one of them in their full glory. From spring wildflowers to autumn’s changing leaves, the surroundings are just as beautiful as the falls themselves! Bring your camera and take some photos during any season for a visual reminder of this incredible journey.
Blue Ridge Folk Art Center
Found in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina lies the captivating Blue Ridge Folk Art Center. This center allows art enthusiasts to explore the timeless tradition of Appalachian history and culture with a wide range of crafts and activities to choose from. The center offers visitors a unique shopping experience as they can create their own hand-crafted items such as pottery, stained glass artwork, and wooden carvings. Each piece is made by local artisans who have mastered the age-old art form. With something for everyone at the Blue Ridge Folk Art Center, there’s sure to be something that sparks your interest and appreciation for Appalachian handicrafts.
Where to stay when visiting the Mount Mitchell Area:
There are great options both near and far but these three are some good options for those visiting the Mt. Mitchell North Carolina area: Terrell House Bed and Breakfast, Albert’s Lodge at Mount Mitchell, The Omni Grove Park Inn.
Mount Mitchell State Park is located in Yancey County, off the Blue Ridge Parkway mile marker 355.
