Come and hike the highest peaks along the east coast. Did you know that the highest peaks east of the Mississippi are in the Smokey and Black Mountains?

Mt. Mitchell (6,684 feet)

Mt. Craig (6,647)

Clingman’s Dome (6643 Feet) along the Appalachian Trail.

Join me as we climb to the peaks of the highest mountains along the east coast in the Great Smokey Mountains National Park in Tennessee and Mt. Mitchell National Park in North Carolina.

There are a few places in the world that still stand apart from the ordinary. Rising more than a mile high, surrounded by the gentle mist of low-hanging clouds, Mount Mitchell State Park is one of these extraordinary places. In the crest of the Black Mountains lies the summit of Mount Mitchell, at an elevation 6,684 feet it is the highest point east of the Mississippi. For those who ascend this mighty peak, what looms in the horizon is a feast for the eyes? Breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, rolling ridges and fertile valleys. Forested and forever misty, 1,946-acre Mount Mitchell State Park will provide you with some of the most tranquil moments you'll ever experience. From Clingman’s Dome, on clear days views expand over a 100 miles.

Date: Easter Weekend, Saturday, March 30, and Sunday, March 31

Time: We will start the hike on Saturday at 9AM and will hike both Mt. Mitchell and Mt. Craig both located in Mt. Mitchell State Park in North Carolina.

On Sunday we will hike to Clingman’s Dome in the Smokey Mountains. Based on the road access we will either hike 6 miles along the Appalachian Trail or 2 miles from the Clingman Dome parking area.

Where:

Establish lodging in Ashville, NC for Friday night to hike Mt. Mitchel and Mt. Craig in the Black Mountains on Saturday

Establish lodging in Gatlinburg, TN for Saturday night to hike Clingman’s dome in the Smokey Mountains on Sunday

Participation Details:

This is a U-drive program and your own arrangements for lodging should be made.

Use www.hotels.com and select hotels in Ashville, NC for Friday night and Gatlinburg, Tennessee on Saturday night (prices range anywhere from $50 and up per night).

354 East Holly Ridge Road, Gatlinburg, TN, 37738

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In Asheville, NC, check out the Country Inn & Suites By Carlson Asheville Biltmore Square

845 Brevard Road

Asheville, NC 28806
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Nearby camping is also available

After the hike we will check out the local sites and casinos.

Based on the number of people that plan to participate, we can coordinate driving and riding together.

For more info – check out these sites:

http://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/clingmansdome.htm

http://www.ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/momi/main.php

Marcia

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