By: Sandra Wiktor
Have you ever wanted to prove something so badly that you died?
Probably not, but the lofty Mt. Mitchell (three hours from Charlotte) was named after a tenacious individual, Dr. Elisha Mitchell, who did just that. He climbed the mountain to prove it was the highest peak east of the Mississippi River and plummeted to his demise while trying to confirm his calculations, which revealed the mountain to reach a staggering 6684 ft. To witness this lofty natural structure, an interested individual would visit the spectacular 1946-acre Mount Mitchell State Park. The tip of the mountain, easily accessible after a simple quarter mile climb up a paved trail, is furnished with a large observation deck that allows hikers to appreciate the enormity of the mountain range. This pathway is flanked by several longer trails, each with varying levels of climbing difficulty. These trails are worlds unto themselves, bursting with exotic flora and fauna, some of which are usually only found in New England or Canada. This park also has convenient campgrounds, an exhibit hall, and yes, areas to indulge in a delicious meal or snack. However, the pockets of nature the park preserves may be the most remarkable.
The observation deck, stationed above Mitchell’s grave, is the best place to experience the vast mountain range as a whole, though it is sometimes submerged in a thick mist. The fog may be a problem, but a visitor can watch as the mist rolls away from the mountains, allowing periodic snippets of the thick green forests. This is a spectacular sight in itself. On such days where the mist has vacated the area completely, up to 85 miles of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Pisgah National Forest is visible, revealing a rolling blanket of endless green and a strip misty blue in a mountainous horizon. However, the trails and campgrounds of the Mount Mitchell State Park may be equally fascinating.
The Deep Gap Trail, Balsam Trail, Mount Mitchell Trail and, for campers, the nine-site camping grounds, are stippled throughout the park. Equipped with grills, picnic tables, and modern bathrooms, the campgrounds are relatively convenient. However, if one enjoys hiking and prefers easier trails, the ¾ mile-loop Balsam Trail, encompassing colorful boulders, layers of cave-like stones, and a thicket of trees covered in minty lichen, may be perfect. However, for those who prefer to witness spectacular mountain views and would not be averse to some not-too-strenuous climbing, Deep Gap Trail is always available. Those who relish more challenging mountain hiking expeditions should consider trekking across the strenuous Mount Mitchell Trail. Through a 3,600′ upward climb in 5.5 miles, this mountain provides hikers with fascinating views of thick hardwood, spruce and fraser fir forests at different altitudes. The mountain has something for nearly everyone.
There are some people who are accustomed to leisurely hours spent staring blankly at glowing screens, enjoying this above all else. However, even if this is the case, the mountain may be enough to drag them away from it, if only momentarily.
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