Mount Mitchell State Park, located in Yancey County, North Carolina, spans an impressive 4,789 acres. This park holds historical significance as it was established in 1915, making it the first state park in North Carolina. Its establishment also led to the creation of the North Carolina State Parks System.
Mount Mitchell State Park is conveniently located at the end of NC 128, off the Blue Ridge Parkway near Burnsville, North Carolina. The park is home to the peak of Mount Mitchell, which is the highest peak east of the Mississippi River. Visitors can reach the summit via a steep paved path from the parking lot, leading to a raised observation platform that offers panoramic 360-degree views.
Beyond Mount Mitchell, the park also encompasses several other peaks that reach over 6,000 feet in elevation. These include Mount Hallback, Mount Craig, Big Tom, and Balsam Cone. Trails lead to all these summits, except for Mount Hallback, offering visitors the opportunity to explore less crowded, yet equally spectacular, areas of the park.
Nature & Natural History Geology Garden & Park
The Park is open 7-days a week with seasonal hours:
January 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
February 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
March 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
April 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
May 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
June 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
July 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
August 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
September 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
October 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Closed on Christmas
2388 N.C. 128, Burnsville
No exhibitions in Mount Mitchell State Park have been found.
Mount Mitchell State Park has 1 rating.
Mount Mitchell State Park, located near Burnsville, United States, offers visitors a chance to experience the highest peak east of the Mississippi River. The park provides hiking trails of varying difficulty, allowing visitors to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the area. Many reviewers appreciate the well-maintained paths and the stunning panoramic views from the observation deck at the summit. The park's museum and gift shop receive positive mentions for their educational displays about the area's ecology and history. Some visitors note that weather conditions can change rapidly, so proper preparation is advised. The park's accessibility, including a paved path to the observation tower, is praised by many. However, some reviewers mention that the restaurant and some facilities have limited hours or may be closed during off-peak seasons. Overall, Mount Mitchell State Park is generally well-regarded for its natural beauty, hiking opportunities, and educational value, though visitors are encouraged to check current conditions and operating hours before their trip.
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