The smallest mountain in the United States is Mount Craig, located in North Carolina. At 6,647 feet (2,025 meters) in elevation, it is the second highest peak in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the highest peak in the state.
Mount Craig is part of the Blue Ridge Mountains, which run through the eastern United States from the Atlantic coast of Maine to Georgia. The Blue Ridge Mountains are part of the Appalachian Mountains, which are the oldest mountain range in North America.
Mount Craig is located in the Pisgah National Forest, east of Asheville, North Carolina. The mountain is named after William Lowther Craig, a Civil War veteran who was the first to survey the area in the late 1800s.
The mountain is relatively easy to climb and offers spectacular views of the surrounding area. There are several trails leading to the summit, but the most popular route is the Forney Ridge Trail. This trail is 7.5 miles (12 kilometers) round trip and has an elevation gain of 4,000 feet (1,219 meters). The trail passes through a dense forest of hemlock and white pine, as well as an area of wildflowers in the spring.
The summit of Mount Craig offers panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains, including Mount Guyot, the highest peak in the range. On a clear day, views can extend up to 100 miles (161 kilometers) in all directions.
Mount Craig is the smallest mountain in the United States, but it offers a unique experience for anyone looking to explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. With its easy accessibility and breathtaking views, it is a great destination for hikers, photographers, and nature lovers alike.
