Summit · Southbound, mileposts count up

Mount Mitchell

6,684 feet, the highest point east of the Mississippi. It runs roughly twenty degrees colder up top, so bring a layer even in July.

1. Step 1

   Right onto US 321 South

   Out of the lot at 5058 Highway 321, turn right toward Blowing Rock.

   2.1miles
2. Step 2

   Parkway ramp, MP 291.8

   Take the ramp and bear south. Long day ahead, so top off first.

   0.4miles
3. Step 3

   MP 304.4, Linn Cove Viaduct

   Same viaduct as the short route, but today you keep going.

   12.6miles
4. Step 4

   MP 316.4, Linville Falls

   Good place to stretch, refuel and eat before the long middle stretch.

   12miles
5. Step 5

   MP 339.5, Crabtree Falls

   The quiet middle. Tunnels start coming thick through here.

   23.1miles
6. Step 6

   MP 355.4, NC 128 junction

   Leave the Parkway here. Signposted for Mount Mitchell State Park.

   15.9miles
7. Step 7

   NC 128 to the summit

   Climb 4.8 miles to the summit car park. Short walk to the observation deck.

   4.8miles
8. Step 8 · Return leg

   Retrace to the lot

   Back down NC 128 and north on the Parkway. Budget the full return.

   70.9miles

Mileposts are Blue Ridge Parkway markers. Distances are measured from 5058 Highway 321. The Parkway closes sections for weather and construction, so check current closures at nps.gov before you set out. Cell service drops for long stretches, so download your map at the lot.