With so many mountain peaks, North Carolina has a number of scenic byways that will carry you up into the clouds and deliver jaw-dropping views that extend for what seems like eternity. But there is only one road that can stake claim to the highest of them all. In fact, according to Wikipedia (so it MUST be true), the highest road in North Carolina is also the highest road or highway east of the Mississippi River.
Getting there is also quite an adventure, as you'll need to hop on the Blue Ridge Parkway and head toward milepost 355.
From there, the road is only 4.6 miles long as it swiftly twists and turns its way directly to the top of Mount Mitchell. The views along the way are simply stunning.
It may come as a surprise, but Mount Mitchell is also the highest peak in the entire Appalachian Mountains. From your vantage point along the way — and when you get to the top — you'll be able to see for tens of miles, weather permitting.
Don't worry if there happens to be a little fog in the valleys below, wait a few minutes and it may pass. Your drive on this short road will take you to the parking area and a path up to the observation deck on the summit.
The state park has a full-service restaurant the doles out awe-inspring views while you eat. Watch the calendar, because it's only open from May through October. Pack a cooler and bag your lunch if you go from November through April.
As long as you're making the mobile trek up the state's highest road, you may as well know how the mountain got its name. It was named for UNC professor, Elisha Mitchell, who in 1837, proved this mountain was higher than one in New Hampshire that was previously thought to be the highest point on the East Coast. Mitchell died proving it, falling to his death from Mitchell Falls located on the slope of the mountain. His grave is 285 yards from the marker shown below.
NC-128 is located at MP355 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Mount Mitchell State Park is open year-round, except for Christmas Day. However, during cold weather the Blue Ridge Parkway may have limited travel capability to get to milepost 355. You can always find up-to-date information regarding closures and accessibility from MP355 on the official website for North Carolina State Parks.
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