Ascend the highest peak east of the Mississippi, rising to 6,684 feet, where you can watch the world take on a new perspective from the observation tower. Visit the museum and learn about the natural and cultural history of North Carolina's first state park. The famished hiker or the hungry tourist can enjoy a relaxing meal in the restaurant. A short trail beginning at the summit parking lot leads to the stone observation towers. On a clear day, there are spectacular views from this highest point east of the Mississippi River. It would not be unusual to observe the beautiful flight of a peregrine falcon. The body of Dr. Elisha Mitchell is buried next to the tower where a stone marker recounts his work in the Black Mountains.

• Visit the grave site of Dr. Elisha Mitchell next to the stone observation towers.
• Take the Deep Gap Trail, a 5.4 mile, very strenuous trail through the park, starting in the summit parking area and then over rough terrain to Mount Craig.