Mt. Mitchell, the area’s most popular attraction, is not just the highest peak of the Appalachian Mountains, but the highest peak East of the Mississippi River. Visitors from all over the world hike its trails, swim in its swimming holes, and behold the view from the summit.  Dozens of trails to the top, ranging in difficulty, are available to hikers and it is just a short but beautiful scenic drive to the observation deck.  Views from the top are breathtaking and expansive - worth every moment of the ascent.