North Carolina is a state of extremes, like having the largest zoo in the world, and bragging rights for the highest peak east of the Mississippi (Mount Mitchell). But not many people realize the Tar Heel State is also home to the highest town east of the Mississippi. The town may be small (only 321 year-round residents) but it’s loaded with things to see and do. Take a look at some of the fun things to do in Beech Mountain, North Carolina.

Beech Mountain's elevation is 5,506 feet, making it eastern America's highest town.
© Robin Jarvis
Incorporated in 1981, just a year after the famous Beech Mountain theme park known as the Land of Oz closed down for good, the town of Beech Mountain, NC is a community with much to admire and a lot to offer. Take a look.
No matter the season, this versatile town knows how to crank up the adventure.
Beech Mountain/Facebook
In winter, the Beach Mountain Ski Resort is the height of activity, offering skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and ice skating.
Beech Mountain Ski Resort, 1007 Beech Mountain Pkwy, Beech Mountain, NC 28604, USA
Beech Mountain Ski Resort/Facebook


Check out this detailed review of the Beach Mountain Ski Resort in this video from Johnathan Buckhouse:
And in the other seasons, the mountain comes alive with an assortment of other fun things to do. Festivals, movies under the stars, and putt-putt golf are but a few of the options in warm weather.
© Robin Jarvis
You can also enjoy temps as much as 10 degrees cooler than at the base of the mountain — an ideal situation for exploring the many trails on Beech.
© Robin Jarvis
A favorite among locals and visitors alike is the Lower Pond Creek Trail, which features a rustic path that follows a waterfall through a magical forest setting.
Lower Pond Creek Trail, 1 Lower Pond Creek Trail, Beech Mountain, NC 28604, USA
© Robin Jarvis


While you are hiking Lower Pond Creek Trail, don't miss Upper Pond Creek Trail as well for some of the best hiking in North Carolina. Check out this cool hiking trail in this video from Adam Goes Outside:

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Or, take in the only Mile High Yoga class you'll find in North Carolina, with views that seem to go on forever.
Beech Mountain Ski Resort/Facebook
That same venue (the 5506' Sky Bar) has live entertainment and cold beverages on the regular, and not just any bands... we promise you'll recognize the music!
5506', 1007 Beech Mountain Pkwy, Beech Mountain, NC 28604, USA
© Robin Jarvis
Hungry? A handful of restaurants on Beech have you covered for just about any craving you may have.
Management/TripAdvisor
From German to Mexican, Mediterranean, BBQ, Southern Cooking, a deli, and the best Pizza around, you'll find what you're in search of on top of Beech Mountain.
And don't leave without checking out a one-of-a-kind general store that's like no other. Fred's General Mercantile has a little of everything, and if they don't have it, (as their motto states) you probably don't need it.
Fred's General Mercantile, 501 Beech Mountain Pkwy, Beech Mountain, NC 28604, USA
Amanda Walsh/Google Reviews
Two other must-visits are the White Wolfe Lodge, home to the BBQ restaurant and the best selection of Wizard of Oz keepsakes you'll find anywhere.
White Wolf Lodge, 3363 Beech Mountain Pkwy, Banner Elk, NC 28604, USA
White Wolf Lodge/Facebook
Lastly, the Visitors Center is located right on the crest of the mountain as you arrive. It's on the left and worthy of a stop to get trail maps, mountain maps, and more.
Beech Mountain Visitors Center, 403-A Beech Mountain Pkwy, Beech Mountain, NC 28604, USA
© Robin Jarvis


To see even more fun things to do in Beech Mountain North Carolina, watch this video from Blue Ridge Mountain Life:

Whether you’re a leaf-peeper and more inclined to head to this mountain retreat in the fall, or you would enjoy all four seasons on top of eastern America’s Highest Town, Beech Mountain has loads to see and do. What are some of your favorite things to do in Beech Mountain, North Carolina?

For a nearby attraction to add to the agenda, the famous Mile High Swinging Bridge on top of Grandfather Mountain is less than 30 miles away.

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Chris Muras | March 19, 2023

What are the highest points in the High Country?

The highest-elevation towns in the Appalachian Mountains have amazing views, and while Beech Mountain is the highest-elevation town east of the Mississippi River, there are a few higher points that offer some incredible views. Here are a few of the highest points in the High Country of the eastern United States:

  • Mount Mitchell, NC: Mount Mitchel clocks in at 6,684 feet, making it the highest point east of the Mississippi. Head to Mount Mitchell State Park and follow a 300-yard trail that leads to the summit for breathtaking views.
  • Roan Mountain, North Carolina, and Tennessee border: The second highest point that is easily accessible at 5,946 ft. Enter Roan Mountain State Park and drive to the top where you can take a short trail to reach the overlook.
  • Grandfather Mountain, Linville, NC: Reach the top of this 5,946-foot mountain by hiking over Mile High Swinging Bridge to see incredible views of the valley below. The land around Grandfather Mountain is considered a Biosphere preserve due to its 73 rare and endangered species. If you enjoy wildlife and wild views, this is a delightful place to hike and explore.
  • Tater Hill, Vilas, NC: It might sound like an insignificant little "hill" based on its name, but it is one of the most epic areas to go hang gliding and paragliding. At 5,585 feet, it is no slouch in the elevation department either.
  • Elk Knob, Todd, NC: This little "knob" is the fifth highest point east of the Mississippi, at 5,566 feet. Take a 1.9-mile out-and-back trail to the summit for gorgeous views. Elk Knob State Park has numerous other hiking trails, a picnic area, and even backcountry camping to enjoy.

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