Mount Mitchell, North Carolina

Mount Mitchell is the highest point east of the Mississippi river. It is part of the Black Mountain chain of the Blue ridge mountains. It can be approached by driving to a parking lot a few hundred feet from the peak or via a 2 mile trail from the old park office

Mount Mitchell is the highest peak in North Carolina. At a height of over 6,600 feet, Mount Mitchell is actually the highest peak east of the Mississippi. For those who want to stand atop the loftiest mountain of the east, there is a short trail of maybe 1/2 mile from the parking lot at Mount Mitchell State Park which leads to the summit. From here, the views are quite impressive. That is, if the weather is cooperating.

While this is not Mount Washington and home of 200 plus mph winds or the worst weather in the world, its still high elevation for this area and the weather can be tempermental. Still, its worth a bit of exertion, even if its just to say that you've been here.

Mount Mitchell State Park is just off the Blue Ridge Parkway about 30 miles north of Asheville.

Mt. Mitchell is the highest mountain in the eastern United States. It rests in a state park in a northeast direction from Asheville. To access the park, you must travel the Blue Ridge Parkway before coming to the turnoff. Be advised that in winter, there is a good chance that the road will not be passable due to snow and ice conditions. There are opportunities for hiking and camping in the area. It is possible to drive almost all of the way to the summit and then take a short trail to the top where the lookout tower is located. On a very clear day, the views will be incredible.

For a bird's eye view of the surrounding mountains, you can't beat Mount Mitchell. It's easy to find and easy to climb---just a few steps to the top of the eastern U.S. More pix on the Mt. Mitchell travelogue!