Blue Ridge Parkway Closure Affects Travel/Summit Observation Deck Closed for Construction/Bring water to campsites ... details ±

The Blue Ridge Parkway is open to Mount Mitchell from the northern access only via highway 80. All southern Parkway access (from Asheville) will be closed into the summer season due to a retaining wall failure. To reach the park from Asheville, take I-40 E. to 70-E at Old Fort. Take 70 to 80-N to the Parkway. Head south on the Parkway to state highway 128 (Mount Mitchell State Park road).

A new observation deck at the summit of Mount Mitchell is under construction, closing the summit area and detouring trails to the summit parking area. The new observation deck is projected for completion in the fall of 2008.

Due to drought conditions, no potable water is available at the Deep Gap and Commissary Ridge backpacking areas. Campers are advised to bring water and adjust schedules to ensure adequate drinking water supplies.

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Click the links below to view maps for this park.

Directions

Mount Mitchell State Park is located in Yancey County, 33 miles north of Asheville off the Blue Ridge Parkway at mile marker #355.

From Asheville, take the Blue Ridge Parkway north to mile marker #355 and turn left onto NC 128, which leads to the park. Winter conditions may cause delays or closures on the parkway.

From I-40, east of Asheville, take exit 86, NC 226 to Marion/Shelby. NC 226 merges with US 221 and US 70 in Marion. Veer left on US 70. After about two miles, turn north on NC 80. Follow NC 80 north/northeast for 16 miles. Turn left onto the Blue Ridge Parkway. Follow the parkway to mile marker #355 and turn right onto NC 128, which leads to the park.

From Highway 19, travel south on Highway 80 and turn right onto the Blue Ridge Parkway. Follow the parkway south to mile marker #355 and turn onto NC 128, which leads to the park.