Colbert Ridge to Mt. Mitchell

Type of Outing: Hike
When: SAT 7/18/2026 8:00 AM
Signup Deadline: 7/17/2026 5:00 pm
Leader: Alex Velez
Distance: 16 miles
Difficulty: Strenuous
Intended Pace: Fast
Elevation Gain: 5630 ft.
Description: We're heading to Mount Mitchell — the highest peak east of the Mississippi — and we're taking the hard way. Starting at the Colbert Ridge Trailhead, we'll grind up one of the most unrelenting trails in the Black Mountains, ascending nearly 5,600 feet over 16 miles of steep, rocky, rope-assisted, lung-burning terrain before punching through to the Deep Gap Trail along the ridge. Seasoned hikers only — unknown registrants will be screened. Come with a cleared schedule, a loaded pack, and the quiet confidence of someone who has made questionable decisions before and lived to tell about it.
Max Participants: 12