Black Mountain Crest TR 179

This trail is rated as most difficult and crosses several 6,000 plus foot peaks. Portions of this trail are steep. From Bolens Creek's north end this trail follows an old Forest Service road before becoming a foot trail. Some of the trail near Bolens Creek is close to pools where fishing may be possible. The trail runs the ridge of Mount Mitchell with possible camping near Deep Gap and limited water. Near Mount Craig obey advisory signs to stay on the trail to preserve fragile plants.

*Important Note: To access the trailhead-If in a high clearance vehicle use four-wheel drive. Park near the Forest Service gate where the trail begins. Do not block the gate. If traveling in a two-wheel drive or low clearance vehicle, drop off hikers near Watershed Road that leads to the trailhead. NO public parking is available, except near where the trail begins at the Forest Service gate.*

Total Length: 12 miles

Total Elevation Change: 3,485 feet

Degree of Difficulty: Difficult

Beginning Point: Watershed Rd. (private property)

Ending Point: Mt. Mitchell State Park

Average Hiking Time: 10 hours plus (one way)

Amount of Use: Moderate

Blaze Color: Yellow

Area Trail Map: South Toe River, Mount Mitchell & Big Ivy Trail Map

USGS Quad Maps: Celo, Mt. Mitchell and Burnsville