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Deep Gap Trail at Mt. Mitchell State Park

Burnsville, North Carolina

5.0/5
based on 2 reviews

Details

Distance

8.24 miles

Elevation Gain

2310 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Kelley Dodge

Hike along some of the tallest peaks in the Appalachian Range and enjoy stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

I personally find this trail to be more difficult and have more rewarding views than the Mt. Mitchell summit trail.

The Deep Gap Trail starts near the Mount Mitchell summit and heads into a forest of spruce and balsam fir trees. The trail then climbs along the ridgeline to neighboring summits. Enjoy expansive views of the Blue Ridge Mountains from Mt. Craig, the second tallest peak East of the Mississippi.

The hiking is strenuous as the trail consistently ascends and descends between peaks, so be sure to wear proper hiking shoes. The trail ends after ~4 miles at Deep Gap, an open meadow that is perfect for a lunch break. If you're feeling up for it, the trail continues past Deep Gap up a few additional peaks (we went all the way to Deer Peak before turning around).

Be sure to wear lots of layers, especially if you're starting early - windy summits can be very cold while Deep Gap meadow is usually warm and sunny.

If you have enough energy left at the end of your hike, continue .25 miles through the parking to your final ascent: Mt. Mitchell. The tallest peak east of the Mississippi River, Mt. Mitchell sits at 6,684 ft.

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Features

Photography
Hiking
Bathrooms
Forest
Picnic Area
Scenic

Reviews

My husband and I did this hike over Labor Day weekend when we were in Asheville for our anniversary. This is a great hike with constant views and challenging terrain. The hardest parts were the areas with fixed ropes but it probably didn’t help that I was 6 months pregnant and not super stable in my hiking boots! Overall, a good hike that wasn’t too busy on a busy weekend.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Summit Mount Mitchell via the Old Mitchell Trail

Hike to Roaring Fork Falls

Green Knob Lookout Tower

Hike to Douglas Falls

Crabtree Falls

Craggy Pinnacle Trail