Approach

See the main page for directions to the trailhead.

From the trailhead, hike west a short ways and cross Sun Set Pool on a metal bridge. You will then pass the entrance sign to Charons Garden Wilderness and proceed through some dense forestlands. At a streambed crossing (most likely dry) the trail will split.

Take the right hand split which will take you straight ahead across the stream. Follow this maintained trail west southwest up onto a plateau between Sunset Peak and Crab Eyes. The trail will eventually make a turn south towards Crab Eyes. At this point, leave the trail and continue hiking west towards Mt. Mitchell which looms ahead. Stay to the north of a shallow canyon if you want to avoid doing too much bushwacking.

Route Description

When you are almost due north of Mt. Mitchell, locate a canyon that runs north/sourth to the east of Mt. Mitchell. You will have to bushwack down a canyon running east/west first, then once you find this north/south canyon you will need to bushwack up this canyon past the east face of Mt. Mitchell. Pass Mitchell and circle up and around Mitchell all the way to the southwest face. From this point it is a scramble up to the summit.

There are two summits, the north summit is probably the easiest to obtain.

Essential Gear

Significant bushwacking will be involved. Take long pants in cooler weather. Wear mosquito repellant around your socks and legs to keep the chiggers away.