The smallest mountain in the United States is Mount Craig, located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. At 6,647 feet (2,025 m) above sea level, Mount Craig is the highest peak in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and the second highest peak in the eastern United States after Mount Mitchell (which is higher at 6,684 feet).
Mount Craig is a popular destination for hikers and climbers, and the summit affords stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The mountain is composed primarily of igneous rock, and is covered in a variety of evergreen trees, including red spruce, Fraser fir, and white pine.
The mountain is named after Elisha Mitchell, a professor of chemistry and mineralogy at the University of North Carolina who first climbed the peak in 1835 and determined its height. Mitchell was later killed in a tragic accident while attempting to measure the heights of other mountains in the area; in his honor, the peak was renamed Mount Mitchell in 1857.
To reach the summit of Mount Craig, hikers must travel a challenging 5-mile trail that ascends over 3,000 feet in elevation. The trail begins at the Blue Ridge Parkway and follows a ridge line up to the summit. Along the way, hikers will pass a variety of flora and fauna, as well as numerous waterfalls, streams, and overlooks.
Once at the summit, hikers are rewarded with stunning 360-degree views of the surrounding mountain ranges. On clear days, hikers can see up to 100 miles in all directions, including the Black Mountains, Great Craggies, and Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Mount Craig is the smallest mountain in the United States, but it offers a challenging and rewarding experience for hikers and climbers alike. The stunning views from its summit are worth the effort of its climb, making it a popular destination for adventurers of all levels.
