Dropped car/shuttle pick-up

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

The Commissary Trail in Mount Mitchell State Park offers a delightful journey through the Black Mountain range, providing near non-stop views of the surrounding peaks and the South Toe River Valley. You'll wander through lush forests of fragrant balsam fir and open grassy areas, with the path often wide and flat, a remnant of its logging railroad past. Keep an eye out for the historic site of Camp Alice, a fascinating landmark along the way, and enjoy the vibrant wild mountain flowers that bloom from spring through fall.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with the trail being generally considered easy to moderate and suitable for families. While specific parking details aren't explicitly mentioned, the trail is well-accessed within Mount Mitchell State Park. It's a 3.0-mile (4.9 km) hike with 782 feet (238 metres) of elevation gain, taking approximately 2 hours and 1 minutes. Visiting in spring or fall will reward you with the most spectacular natural displays.

This trail is notable for its historical significance, following an old logging railroad line from the early 1900s, which later brought tourists into the mountains. It serves as a key access point to Mount Mitchell State Park and can connect you to more challenging routes leading to Mount Mitchell Summit. The consistent panoramic views and diverse flora make it a standout moderate hike in the region.

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.