Sat, Sep 5 2026 - Peak Baggers Holiday (Labor Day) - Mount Mitchell (View Original Event Details) Trip Leader(s): Deema, Nahid Participants: Deema, Umit, Nahid, Laurie T, Irina D, Maurici, Pam M, Alice LC, Bob Bunner

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Day 1 – Looking Glass Rock

We hit the trail at 11 a.m., and it was hot. The three miles to the top were a grind, but the view from the summit (see the attached photos) made every sweaty step worth it. The sun slipped behind some clouds just long enough for us to enjoy a cool, breezy late lunch on the rock before heading back to the house in Marion for a late homemade dinner.

6 miles, 1700ft elevation gain.

Day 2 – Mount Mitchell Summit
We set out early to beat the crowds. Recent trail reviews had warned of a wasp nest about 1.2 miles in, and although we did our best to skirt it, a few of us still came away with two or three stings each. As the photos show, the clouds kept us from enjoying the views, but we made it to the summit! Dinner was another home cooked meal.

12 miles, 3700 ft elevation gain.

Day 3 – Sassafras Mountain (postponed)
Fifteen minutes from the trailhead, the skies opened up. We made a group decision to keep driving home, so Sassafras Mountain via the Foothills Trail will have to wait for another trip.