Big Tom Summit

Hike the challenging Black Mountain Crest Trail, a 11.1-mile route with 1427 feet of elevation gain through rugged mountain terrain.

The Colbert Ridge to Mount Mitchell trail is a relentless ascent through the Black Mountains, transitioning from lush hardwood forests to high-altitude evergreen stands. You'll navigate steep, technical terrain, often scrambling over boulders and roots, especially on the brutal final mile to Deep Gap. The reward is a journey across several high peaks, including Big Tom and Mount Craig, culminating in the expansive panoramic views from Mount Mitchell Summit.

This difficult 8.1-mile (13.0 km) hike involves a staggering 4485 feet (1367 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 6 hours and 47 minutes. The trailhead is near Carolina Hemlocks Campground. Be aware that water sources are limited, and the trail can be icy in winter, particularly closer to Deep Gap. Hiking poles are highly recommended for the challenging footing.

This route serves as a crucial access point to the Black Mountain Crest Trail, making it a popular choice for longer backpacking trips or as one of North Carolina's toughest day hikes. The trail offers diverse scenery, with notable overlooks of the Unaka Mountains and the South Toe River Valley, and on clear days, you might even spot Grandfather Mountain.

Hike the Black Mountain Crest Trail, a difficult 1.9-mile route in Mount Mitchell State Park with 235 feet of gain, taking about 1 hour 27 m