Mount Mitchell State Park
Mount Mitchell State Park
Mount Mitchell State Park
5
7:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Monday
7:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Tuesday
7:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Wednesday
7:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Thursday
7:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Friday
7:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Saturday
7:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Sunday
7:00 AM - 10:00 PM
About
The highest mountain in the Black Mountain Range.
Duration: More than 3 hours
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- BoardingPass3148135 contributionsBucket ListAnother one off the Bucket List. A friend told me a while ago that Mount Mitchell was a must do while in the south east. I’ve been trying for eight years to get my wife to go on this trip with me. We both enjoyed it immensely. Mount Mitchell is the highest point east of the Mississippi. From the parking lot the summit is a 300 yard uphill walk. We were fortunate the clouds parted long enough to offer stunning views. It was busy with tourists so go early.Visited July 2024Traveled with familyWritten July 31, 2024
- KyleS2266Fayetteville, North Carolina22 contributionsAmazing viewsMust go if you are in the area. Amazing views, lots of trails to explore. Has places to picnic and relax as well. Weather can change quickly so don't panic if it isn't great when you first arrive. Sunset is a unbelievable time to be at the summit.Visited September 2023Traveled soloWritten August 7, 2024
- Julie HSterling Heights, Michigan33 contributionsDay trippin on Mount MitchellLovely views! We went to the summit for the views, took an easy hike back to the car with Balsam Nature Trail. Hit Roaring Fork Falls on the way down. The hikes were lovely, and not advanced. Didn't have time to explore more, will be back! The Balsam trail was a shady, cool alternative to walk to car from the summit in the heat.Visited September 2024Traveled with familyWritten September 3, 2024
- Monty WJonesborough, Tennessee7 contributionsAlways a good tripWe try to go every year around the beginning of fall. We are never disappointed even when the view is not as clear because of weather conditions. The Mt Craig hike is short, only one mile there and one mile back but very rewarding for the views.Visited September 2024Traveled with familyWritten September 23, 2024
- MJ_ontheBAYWallonia, Belgium120 contributionsStunning Blue Ridge viewsVisited Mt. Mitchell in the early summer and the weather was near perfect with clear skies and the unobstructed views out to the horizon. This is an easy drive up the Blue Ridge Parkway and is a must for a dose of nature detour on a trip to nearby Asheville or Black Mountain. There are various hikes in the area, but you can drive up pretty close to the Mt. Mitchell summit that connects a parking lot to peak via an easy paved path. The gift shop, history exhibit and restrooms adjacent to the parking lot are also convenient. Recommend seeing the peak and then doing an easy loop hike through the woods that has entry points both at the parking lot and off the path toward the peak. Also, great spot for young kids and seemed relatively safe with minimal steep drop offs. Bring plenty of water, good shoes and a sweater/raincoat. We were lucky with a comfortable, sunny day but mountain weather can change on a dime.Visited June 2024Traveled with familyWritten October 26, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Joyce19561111
Baltimore, MD103 contributions
May 2023
Observation area is a must see, just off the Blue Ridge Parkway about one hour from Blue Ridge Visitors Center Asheville. Nice museum explains topography terms, differences between peaks, spurs, ridge, valleys, coves, saddle and gap. Cash only sales in museum shop, no checks, or cards.
Written May 27, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ward D
Satellite Beach, FL3,582 contributions
Oct 2022
This is one of the stops off the north side of the Blue Ridge Parkway. If you are traveling the parkway this should be one of your stops along the way for several reasons. 1) It is the highest point east of the Mississippi. 2) You can drive most of the way to the peak. 3) There is a good amount of parking near the top. 4) The walkway, though a little steep at the beginning, is smoother than many other trails. And 5) Mostly, the view from the top is very nice and had an inset in the platform. The drive is a north turn off the parkway onto 128. Follow that road for about 4 miles, all the way to a large parking lot that would fit about 100 cars. There are several buildings on the west side of the lot. The trailhead is at the southern end of the lot and ascends fairly gradually with a good surface to the path. There are informational signs about Elisha Mitchell, a scientist who died in an attempt to prove that the site was the highest peak. His grave is at the summit. There is a panoramic view from the top pedestal as well as concrete benches, informational signs, and a compass rose set into the concrete with the shape state set in the middle. Overall, it is a must-see if you traveling this way. Enjoy!
Written December 31, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Susan P
Putnam, CT958 contributions
Sep 2022
If you drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway north of Asheville, NC, take the time to explore this mountain, the highest peak in the east. There is an auto road to drive to the summit and there is no charge since it is a state park. The road is well maintained and easy to navigate. There are a number of spots to stop along the way and take in the views. There is a restaurant mid-way up the auto road, which was closed when we were there. At the top parking level are portable toilets, a snack bar, gift shop and museum. There is a walkway leading to a lookout platform at the summit. As someone who relies on a rollator, the incline was too steep and I turned back. My husband took some amazing photos. We aware that it is very windy on top of the mountain and winter jackets and gloves are recommended even in summer. Take time to explore the museum. We found it interesting that there was an abundance of wildlife and trees at the summit, unlike the mountains of New England.
Written December 17, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Darlene T
Sunset Beach, NC439 contributions
Aug 2022
Would highly recommend driving to Mount Mitchel State Park and climb to the the top it is only 300yd but it is steep, but well worth it. We drove the Blue Ridge Parkway, did a few stops along the way until we turned off to get to Mt. Mitchell..It is a beautiful drive and stunning views...Would recommend early in the morning, it does get crowded later in the day. Beautiful mountain and park!
Written August 19, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lisa S
Hummelstown, PA10,135 contributions
Sep 2020 • Couples
I can’t locate a specific review area for the trail so I’ll include both my visits on one review. In early August we drove to the top of Mt Mitchell and walked to the observation deck. It’s a little bit tiring if you live in a flat area like I do but totally worth the walk up. Lots of surface parking and clean flush toilets. We also visited the gift shop that day and they had just opened and clothing options were quite limited due to the late, short season. We found on our second visit that they are not open every day.
In early September we hiked from the bottom, although not beginning on Commissary Trail as it was closed due to bear activity. We first parked at the visitor center where at least the bathrooms were open for use. Then we moved onto the restaurant to begin the hike on Old Mitchell Trail up to the summit. It’s was noted as moderate in our guidebook but on their sign it’s noted as strenuous and I can tell you they are right!
I am 5’ and don’t like the bother of carrying a hiking stick. 9 times out of ten it’s a nuisance to me rather than a help. My husband always takes a hiking stick. This particular hike I needed to use his stick! Lots of roots and big boulders to step over. Even the platform and stairs were high and set far apart! Be aware that there is a huge boulder that requires you to use a rope to get down and then of course back up. It was very muddy and wet the day we hiked. The elevation during the hike is not bad. I always take a photo of the map before we set out. Not always as clearly marked as you would hope especially with intersecting trails.
I’ve done it once and will not repeat it. After reaching the summit and before hiking back down, we did the Balsam Nature Trail which is mostly canopied and an easy walk. I fell twice on the Old Mitchell trail and have a nasty bruise due to the rocks I slid on, still with me 12 days later. With the leaves falling and the terrain having a better chance of being wet now, I highly recommend you wear hiking boots and long pants. Both saved me from a more serious injury.
Another recommendation is to have bear spray as there’s simply nowhere to go should you encounter one on this trail. With the closed lower trail, there is a real chance. Please do not have it in your backpack but at the ready to use.
In early September we hiked from the bottom, although not beginning on Commissary Trail as it was closed due to bear activity. We first parked at the visitor center where at least the bathrooms were open for use. Then we moved onto the restaurant to begin the hike on Old Mitchell Trail up to the summit. It’s was noted as moderate in our guidebook but on their sign it’s noted as strenuous and I can tell you they are right!
I am 5’ and don’t like the bother of carrying a hiking stick. 9 times out of ten it’s a nuisance to me rather than a help. My husband always takes a hiking stick. This particular hike I needed to use his stick! Lots of roots and big boulders to step over. Even the platform and stairs were high and set far apart! Be aware that there is a huge boulder that requires you to use a rope to get down and then of course back up. It was very muddy and wet the day we hiked. The elevation during the hike is not bad. I always take a photo of the map before we set out. Not always as clearly marked as you would hope especially with intersecting trails.
I’ve done it once and will not repeat it. After reaching the summit and before hiking back down, we did the Balsam Nature Trail which is mostly canopied and an easy walk. I fell twice on the Old Mitchell trail and have a nasty bruise due to the rocks I slid on, still with me 12 days later. With the leaves falling and the terrain having a better chance of being wet now, I highly recommend you wear hiking boots and long pants. Both saved me from a more serious injury.
Another recommendation is to have bear spray as there’s simply nowhere to go should you encounter one on this trail. With the closed lower trail, there is a real chance. Please do not have it in your backpack but at the ready to use.
Written September 15, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Alex K
Bristol, Connecticut76 contributions
May 2022
I visited Mount Mitchell State Park to hike Mount Mitchell itself, and the Mount Mitchell Trail was outstanding. I have gone on a number of hikes over the last decade, and this is the best marked trail I have been on. At least in the spring, the trail itself is clearly visible the entire way. Additionally, there are blue blaze marks throughout, most importantly when you hit open clearings and come across false paths; the signage is excellent when there are trail intersections; and there are wooden posts to mark every instance in which you hit a half-mile. I always recommend bringing a trail map when going on a hike, but it would be very hard to get lost on this trail.
Written May 19, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
toothfairy0904
Chicago, Illinois295 contributions
Oct 2020 • Family
It’s worth the long scenic drive with gorgeous fall color to reach the lookout point. They have restrooms available by the parking lot. The hike does have a steep incline, but it’s doable and worth it. There were people of all ages, athletic nature, and others with physical ailments still making the trek. We were able to do it safely with a stroller. The observation deck was VERY crowded for a random week day. People were not social distancing. I don’t usually wear a mask when walking outside, but I defInitely wore my mask with the clusters of people on the deck. It’s beautiful views though to be at the highest peak East of Mississippi River. It’s not super “wowsa” or “amazing,” but it’s pretty. Nice that it’s a scenic journey and totally free. Would recommend the trek to enjoy fall color even if you have a kiddo in a stroller.
Written October 23, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
TYPSUKR
Arlington, VA725 contributions
Apr 2022
We came here in the afternoon in late April to ascend the highest peak in the USA, east of the Mississippi River. Access to the state park is free, and immediately access from the Blue Ridge Parkway. After taking a steep and somewhat windy, but well-maintained, road to the summit, we parked our car, and did the 10-minute walk (steep, but paved trail) to the absolute summit, which includes an observation platform. There are great views, if a bit repetitive (mountains in every direction), and also a rare Spruce-Fir tree ecosystem at the higher elevation. Gift shop and visitor center was closed for season/renovations when we were there.
Written May 16, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Paul S.
Rocky Mount, VA59 contributions
Jun 2023 • Couples
This little excursion was made on a whim. We had met a couple the night before at dinner and they were telling us about it. They had visited that morning. They told it was only about 45 minutes out of Asheville and was the tallest peak west of the Mississippi. We thought that was pretty cool and worth the time to see since we were so close. We had time to kill before our tour time at the Biltmore. The drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway was breath taking! Once we arrived, there was a small hike to the summit. It was a VERY cloudy day. We couldn’t really see anything. That was a bummer, but still glad we went. There were probably about 50 other people there while we were there. It wasn’t crowded at all. It was very well maintained. If I’m ever in the Asheville area again, and the sun is shining, I’d definitely go back for the views.
Written June 16, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
CenFLGuy
Savannah, GA353 contributions
Jun 2021 • Solo
I visited North Carolina’s highest point recently. The visitors center has a gift shop plus a museum showing the history of Mount Mitchell which I enjoyed. Unfortunately, clouds totally covered my view from the observation deck. I’ll definitely be back hopefully on a clear day.
Written July 1, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
As far as I can see everything is in bloom, almost past it being late May-June. I should have come at least one week earlier around mid-May.
Written June 4, 2023
Dreamer42270239856
Matthews, North Carolina
We visited but it was socked in and we couldn't see anything. What is the best time of the year to visit with the hope of some visibility?
Written October 8, 2020
We were there in mid-August and it was gorgeous. It had rained earlier in the day and it was clear as a bell up top.
Written October 10, 2020
I believe July is the best time to see them, though I have never been while they were in bloom.
Written June 2, 2023
Yes, lots of dogs; Big and small. Also, hiking trails and roads and paths
Written October 3, 2018
Is it possible to make the drive up to the summit with a large RV? Is it not to steep?
Written February 6, 2018
It’s a normal road, you can drive right up and park IF IF IF the roads are open (much of the Blue Ridge Pkwy closes in winter especially during snowy weather. Go to the Mt Mitchell /NC State Park/ Blue Ridge websites to find a roa report or a number to call. And IF IF IF the parking lot at the top is full during busy summer months, you may have to park at the visitor/information center and walk up , but it’s not too far and good to actually get a bit of a hike in. In nice weather, it is beautiful to take a picnic down the trail from the top to an open bald area , if you can hike.
Written February 7, 2018
How much time should we plan to spend at Mt Mitchell? We are planning to drive up the mountain, park in the parking lot and walk to the top. Is it feasible to do this in 2-3 hours? We are wanting to see/explore Mt Mitchell as we travel from IL to the North Carolina coast. Thank you.
Written January 10, 2018
Yes, to drive to the top and walk the short distance to the observation site, 2-3 hrs. will be fine. I might suggest a little more time in order to picnic and explore some of the great trails!
Written January 10, 2018
plukosius
Knoxville, Tennessee
Where would i finding lidging closeby as campground sites are already booked for labor day holiday
Written August 7, 2017
Check some of the home rental sites...Sometimes you can find a real bargain online.
Written September 6, 2018
Can I park in the parking lot in my 24 ft rv overnight??
Written May 23, 2017
So how would the ride be up to mt mitchell on a motorcycle?
Written May 23, 2017
The ride up with a motorcycle will be ok. There's a few Narrow turns but plenty of side shoulder view you can stop by! Riding with lights on wouldn't be a bad idea. If you ever rode up to Gatlinburg Tn, the mountains there can be 10 times worse than NC especially in the Crosby Area Between the state line TN and NC. Those mountains n a motorcycle I wouldn't recommended. The state park is friendly you can call anytime to ask questions.
Written May 24, 2017
If you are looking for a strenuous walk there are many at MT Mitchell but if you just going from parking area to summit it's not bad
Written April 12, 2017
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