Best Hiking Trails in Mt. Mitchell State Park
This state park is known for its excellent hiking trails that lead hikers through areas of tranquil forest. The trails vary greatly in length and difficulty level so you are sure to find a few trails that suit your requirements and experience level. After days spent conquering the fantastic trails, relax in one of the many Mt. Mitchell State Park cabins and plan the next day's hike.
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1. Old Mitchell hike
This 4.5-mi. hike has some very steep sections that require you to be fairly fit. The entire trail takes you through some of the oldest parts of the park with densely forested areas. Most hikers complete the trail in around 6 hours but you may want to go at a slower pace and enjoy the scenery.
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2. Mount Mitchell
A 1-mi. moderate trail that takes you to the summit of Mt. Mitchell, this is extremely popular with families as the path is wide and the gradient is not very steep. At the summit, you will be treated to amazing views of the surrounding countryside.
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3. Camp Alice
This gentle 2.5-mi. hike takes you past some of the historic sites in the park including Camp Alice. Helpfully, signboards along the way explain the historic significance of the area.
Best Family Activities in Mt. Mitchell State Park
Spend quality time with your family hiking and swimming in this beautiful state park. With many great family-friendly Mt. Mitchell State Park hotels to choose from, you'll be sure to have a suitable base.
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1. Swimming
The park has a lovely swimming area that is perfect for relaxing in after spending all day hiking through the woods. There is even a separate shallow pool for small children.
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2. Geocaching
This fun activity promises action and adventure for all ages. There are a number of geocaching spots in the park and they are all fairly easy to get to. Spend a day walking or driving around the park and seeing how many of the geocaches you can find.
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3. Ranger program
In the summer months, the park runs a ranger program that includes wonderful campfire story sessions, guided walks, and fun educational conservation programs.
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4. Museum
Take the kids to the highly informative on-site museum that looks at the history of Mt. Mitchell and the surrounding area.