The museum holds exclusive access to explore the remnants of the Patton Mountain House within the secluded Asheville Watershed, offering a unique journey into history. Following the original path traversed by early adventurers ascending Mt. Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi, this expedition takes you through the North Fork valley via the Old Mitchell Trail. In the footsteps of intrepid pioneers who once ventured by wagon, horseback, and on foot to reach the Mountain House, this out-and-back odyssey commences at Wendell Begley’s cabin near Mt. Mitchell State Park’s entrance, meandering through Potato Knob and descending to the Mountains-to-Sea Trail at Deer Gap. As the hike transitions into the City of Asheville’s restricted property, it descends the “uncleared” segment of the Old Mitchell Trail, leading to the evocative ruins of the Mountain House. Seize this exceptional and rare opportunity to embark on a journey through time!
Date: Saturday, June 1, 2024
Time: 8:30am – 3:30pm
Meet: 8:30 am Folk Art Center – MM 382 Blue Ridge Parkway – Asheville; Closest Parkway Entrance is at Highway 70 near the VA Center in East Asheville.
Difficulty: Strenuous/Difficult – 5 Miles round trip with 1250 feet of elevation gain from Mountain House back to trailhead.
Cost: $50 for SVM Members, $65 for Non-Members. Some fees apply.
