Old Mitchell Trail

Why hike this

If you want a genuine trail to the highest point east of the Mississippi (instead of just driving to the top), Old Mitchell delivers. It’s a historic route with yellow-circle blazes that climbs through cool, high-elevation spruce–fir forest to the Mount Mitchell observation area. Expect a stout, rocky hike and big summit views at the end. The standard route is roughly 4.0 miles total (about 2.0 miles each way) and typically takes 2–3 hours round trip, depending on pace and stops [hikewnc.info](https://www.hikewnc.info/besthikes/mount-mitchell-state-park/old-mitchell) [smokymountains.com](https://smokymountains.com/asheville/hikes/old-mitchell-trail).

Route and navigation

Start from Mount Mitchell State Park near the Park Office or the restaurant parking area off the Blue Ridge Parkway at MP 355; parking is free. Follow the yellow-circle blazes; the tread is well signed with junction boards. Near the top, Old Mitchell shares a short segment with the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, and you’ll also meet the Camp Alice and Commissary trails. Many hikers make a pleasant loop by returning via Camp Alice (blue square blaze) and the Commissary Trail (orange diamond blaze)—an easier way down with similar total mileage [hikewnc.info](https://www.hikewnc.info/besthikes/mount-mitchell-state-park/old-mitchell) [smokymountains.com](https://smokymountains.com/asheville/hikes/old-mitchell-trail) [ashevilletrails.com](https://ashevilletrails.com/mount-mitchell-state-park/old-mitchell-trail-commissary-trail-loop/).

What you’ll see

This is classic Southern Appalachian high country: dense spruce–fir stands, occasional open gaps and rock outcrops, wood and stone steps, and a small waterfall along the way. In late July and August, look for ripe raspberry and blackberry canes near higher elevations; in spring and summer, expect wildflowers. The summit observation platform caps it with panoramic views and the satisfaction of hiking to the top rather than parking beside it [exploreasheville.com](https://www.exploreasheville.com/article/old-mitchell-trail) [ashevilletrails.com](https://ashevilletrails.com/mount-mitchell-state-park/old-mitchell-trail-commissary-trail-loop/) [hikewnc.info](https://www.hikewnc.info/besthikes/mount-mitchell-state-park/old-mitchell).

Difficulty and footing

Old Mitchell is rated moderate to strenuous thanks to steady climbing, altitude, and rough tread. Count on rocky, rooty sections that can be wet or muddy, plus short steep pitches with steps. Elevation gain is in the several-hundred-foot range (commonly cited around 600–700+ feet), but it feels punchy at over 6,000 feet. Allow extra time if you’re not used to hiking at high elevation [hikewnc.info](https://www.hikewnc.info/besthikes/mount-mitchell-state-park/old-mitchell) [ashevilletrails.com](https://ashevilletrails.com/mount-mitchell-state-park/old-mitchell-trail-commissary-trail-loop/).

Tips and logistics

• Layers aren’t optional—weather is often much colder and windier up here, even in summer. Bring a warm layer and rain shell.
• Grab a map at the Park Office, watch blaze colors at junctions, and note the brief overlap with the Mountains-to-Sea Trail near Camp Alice.
• Leashed dogs are allowed. No permits or day-use fees for hiking the trail. Not ADA accessible; hiking only [ncparks.gov](https://www.ncparks.gov/state-parks/mount-mitchell-state-park/trails) [exploreasheville.com](https://www.exploreasheville.com/article/old-mitchell-trail).

Best time to hike

Late spring through early fall is prime. Spring and summer bring wildflowers; late summer offers berry snacking. Fall can be spectacular but changeable—check conditions at the trailhead kiosk. Winter frequently means ice/snow and is best left to experienced hikers with proper gear [exploreasheville.com](https://www.exploreasheville.com/article/old-mitchell-trail) [ashevilletrails.com](https://ashevilletrails.com/mount-mitchell-state-park/old-mitchell-trail-commissary-trail-loop/).