Mount Mitchell

This route starts and ends at the Mount Mitchell Trailhead across from Black Mountain Campground on South Toe River Road and reaches the summit of Mount Mitchell (6,684'), the highest point east of the Mississippi River, for a round trip of about 11.6 miles. From the parking area, cross the bridge into the campground and bear left, following the dirt road toward the marked trailhead. About 0.2 miles in, turn right onto the Mount Mitchell Trail and begin climbing. At 1.5 miles, the grade eases briefly at Long Arm Ridge. At 1.8 miles, the Higgins Bald Trail joins from the left; keep right to stay on the Mount Mitchell Trail. The Higgins Bald Trail rejoins a mile later — continue straight. Approaching Commissary Hill, the Buncombe Horse Range Trail joins from the right; keep straight, then bear right shortly after to continue climbing. The route crosses from Pisgah National Forest into Mount Mitchell State Park. Near the summit, the Balsam Nature Trail splits off to the right; continue straight. At the paved summit path, turn hard left for the final approach to the observation platform. Return by retracing the same route, a sustained, rocky descent for its full length.