NC BACKCOUNTRY: Mt. Mitchell State Park

The summit of Mount Mitchell, at an elevation 6,684 feet, is the highest point east of the Mississippi. Mount Mitchell State Park is 1,946 acres, rising more than a mile high, providing some of the most breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. A short trail beginning at the summit parking lot leads to a stone observation platform providing a spectacular 360 degree 85 miles view of the surrounding mountains and Pisgah National Forest. Some of the Fraser and Spruce firs in the highest elevations has been infested and killed by the balsam woolly adelgid, air pollution, and acid-laden precipitation. The wildlife within the park includes northern flying squirrels, saw-whet owls, white-tailed deer, black bears, striped skunks, bobcats, gray foxes, and over 91 species of birds. Mt. Mitchell State Park offers a variety of activities within the park including tent and primitive camping, several quality hiking trails, and a spectacular picnic area.

Camping: Family 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.
Pack-in camping: 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

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. Severe storms above 6,000 feet are unpredictable and can be life-threatening. Fog and winds can impede search-and-rescue crew and helicopter access. Hike and camp in the back country at your own risk

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.

On the Deep Gap Trail, you'll first ascend Mt. Craig Peak at 6648 ft. followed by Big Tom Peak at 6581 ft., Balsam Cone Peak at 6596 ft. and Cattail Peak at 6584 ft. before you reach Deep Gap Camp. This trail is moderately strenuous at times but a must hike. Mount Hallback Peak, at 6300 ft., is on the other side of MMSP summit parking lot. Another must see is Craggys Garden just a few miles down the road on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Total: 5.5 miles WNC Parks: 7