It’s official! Mount Mitchell in Burnsville, NC has been named Best Overlook in the 2026 Blue Ridge Outdoors Magazine Best of the Blue Ridge Awards by its readers. We couldn’t agree more! At 6,684 feet, Mt. Mitchell is the highest peak east of the Mississippi with a short, paved walk to the summit observation deck with its 360° views (up to 85 miles on a clear day!). In case you’re craving more mountain adventure, the Balsam Nature Trail and Deep Gap Trail start close to the summit. To the reade

Whether you’re looking for a casual hike, or a longer and more strenuous adventure, Mount Mitchell State Park features miles of hiking trails to explore. Hiking with a partner or in a group can improve the health of your relationships. Along the path, you’ll enjoy views of old-growth forests populated with a variety of ferns, hardwoods, spruce and fir at varying elevations. Funding for #TenToTry is provided by the PATH Initiative and the NC Department of Natural & Cultural Resources. | PBS North