Mt. Mitchell

Hike Name: Mt. Mitchell Location: southwest NC Length: 6 Submitted by: Geoff Rhodes Date Submitted: 0/0/00 Rating:	more North Carolina trail reviews North Carolina national parks North Carolina state parks
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Description
A difficult trail that takes you right up the face of Black Mountain enroute to the summit of Mitchell. The first three miles are filled with constant switchbacks and a few minor water crossings. At the four mile mark the trail starts to level out and opens up to tremendous views of the Black Mountains and Pisgah National Forest. The last mile before the summit heads back into the forest and back up hill again. The final strecth runs through a severly damaged country side where the affects of acid rain are all too clear. But if you look past the acid white trees you will see your final destination point, the highest point East of the Mississippi. At the summit you will be rewarded with more than a great view of the surrounding countryside, there is a fully functioning bathroom, gift shop, parking lot and even a resaurant. If you fight the summer crowds of people with their strollers and icecream cones you should get a chance to climb the observation tower and view the area. Also don't foget to pay your respects to Elisha Mitchell the man who surveyed and perished on this mountain. This is a good trail, but a lousy summit. Your best bet for solitude on the summit is late fall, early witer where the only one's bothering you will be some late hibernating squirrels. However, the restaurant will be closed so you'll have to leave you American Express at home. Sorry. One point of intrest is that the summit trail is also a piece of the North Carolina "Mountain to Sea Trail" which is indicated by a white circular blaze.

Directions to Hike
North of Asheville on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Take Forest Service Route 2047 or FSR 182 to the Black Mountain campground. These are both gravel roads and are approximately at BRP Mileposts 353 or 347. Either way they are between route 80 and Milepost 355. They will be on the right side of the road if you are heading South on the BRP.

Contact Information
Mount Mitchell State Park
Route 5 Box 700
Burnsville, North Carolina 28714
(828) 675-4611
or you could even call the Restaurant and make reservations (828) 675-9545

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