North Carolina State Parks

Mount Mitchell

2388 State Highway 128, Burnsville, NC 28714 · (828) 675-4611 · E-mail

There are a few places in the world that still stand apart from the ordinary. Rising more than a mile high, surrounded by the gentle mist of low-hanging clouds, Mount Mitchell State Park is one of these extraordinary places.

In the crest of the timeworn Black Mountains lies the summit of Mount Mitchell, the highest point east of the Mississippi. For those who ascend this mighty peak, what looms in the horizon is a feast for the eyes—breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, rolling ridges and fertile valleys. Forested and forever misty, 1,855-acre Mount Mitchell State Park will provide you with some of the most tranquil moments you'll ever experience.

Camping

The nine-site family campground is open throughout the year. Only tent camping is allowed. Each site is equipped with a grill and picnic table. Modern restrooms for use during warm seasons are located nearby. Showers and hot water are not provided. In the winter, campers have access to pit toilets, and no running water is available. Campsites are available on a first-come basis for a modest fee.

Campers may leave vehicles in the park overnight to backpack into the Pisgah National Forest. Visitors who leave their vehicles in the park must register on the forms provided at the trailheads near the parking area or at the park office. Mount Mitchell offers a choice of trails from which to enjoy the nearby alpine woodlands.

Exhibit hall

Want to know how Mount Mitchell measures up? Check out the park's exhibit hall, and you'll find out how the east coast's highest peak stacks up against its neighbors as soon as you walk in the door. The 1,385-square-foot exhibit hall, located near the mountain's summit, is open from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m., May through October. It offers visitors insight into the mountain's natural, cultural and historical faces. Exhibits include:

• An interactive weather station that displays both current conditions and contains a historical weather database. It allows visitors to punch in a date from the past, such as the visitor's birthday, to find out the weather conditions on Mount Mitchell's summit on that date.
• A life-size wood carving of "Big" Tom Wilson, the mountain guide who led a search for the person who first calculated Mount Mitchell to be the highest peak on the east coast. The statue was created by local award-winning carver David Boone.
• A replica of "Big" Tom's cabin with historical artifacts and buttons that allow visitors to listen to four different stories about his life.
• A three-dimensional topographic map of the Black Mountains with interactive buttons.
• A geology section with a hands-on demonstration of a rock fault and four samples of the different rock types in the state park. Magnifying glasses are available for visitors who want a closer inspection.
• Four dioramas that depict animal life in the state park.

Hiking

Choose between a short stroll or a more extensive hike into the woods. Either choice will be rewarding as the beauty of the park is best seen from one of its many trails. Hikers should wear appropriate clothing and carry proper gear as the high altitude makes the climate of Mount Mitchell chilly, even in summer.

A short trail beginning at the summit parking lot leads to the stone observation tower. On a clear day, visitors can see as far as 85 miles and enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and the Pisgah National Forest. The body of Dr. Elisha Mitchell is buried next to the tower where a stone marker recounts his work in the Black Mountains.

Horseback riding

Although no horses are permitted inside the park, horseback riders can enjoy a trail that travels along the perimeter of the park. For more information, contact the U.S. Forest Service.

Picnicking

Try a mile-high picnic at Mount Mitchell. The shady picnic area, open year-round, is located at the north end of the summit parking lot. Forty picnic tables, stone grills and drinking water supply all the essentials. Two picnic shelters with fireplaces are perfect for group picnics. Each shelter accommodates up to 16 people. Use of the shelters is free of charge unless reservations are requested.

Visitor facilities

Interpretive center: Near the summit parking lot is an interpretive center where exhibits offer interesting information about the park's history and depict mountain forests, geology and wildlife.

Concession stand/gift shop: A concession stand and gift shop, adjacent to the summit parking lot, is open daily from May through October. Light snacks, crafts and books may be purchased here. Restrooms are also available.

Restaurant: Enjoy a relaxing meal in the restaurant located approximately a half mile from the park office. Open May through October, hungry hikers and tourists will enjoy the restaurant's food as well as its scenic views.

For more information visit: North Carolina State Parks - Mount Mitchell State Park