Trip ideas while visiting Asheville in North Carolina
If you’re unsure about where to visit along the Blue Ridge Parkway, a must-see spot is Mount Mitchell State Park. It’s one of the most popular stops on the parkway and boasts breathtaking mountain views. What sets Mount Mitchell apart from other parks with high peaks is that you can reach the summit by car. Once you arrive at the top, situated 6,684 feet above sea level, you can easily park your car and enjoy a short walk to the observation area. There, you’ll be rewarded with a panoramic 360-degree view of the beautiful surroundings. In fact, on a clear day, you can see up to 85 miles from the summit.
If you want to explore Mount Mitchell by hiking, there are several trails to choose from, each with its own level of difficulty. The Balsam Nature Trail is moderately challenging and less than a mile long. Along the trail, you’ll come across a small stream, which happens to be the highest spring in the eastern United States. For a more traditional experience, you can take the Old Mitchell Trail, a round trip of 4.4 miles that leads you to the summit of Mount Mitchell, just like people used to do in the past. Alternatively, if you’re up for a tougher hike, you can try the Deep Gap Trail, a strenuous 2.1-mile path that follows the ridgeline connecting Mount Mitchell and Mount Craig, which are nearby.