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- Mount Craig
6,646 ft · Black Mountains, North Carolina
Mount Craig
Mount Craig is a 6,646 ft peak in the Black Mountains, North Carolina. The standard route is the Black Mountain Crest Trail: 2 mi, 550 ft of gain, Class 1.
Mount Craig at a glance
- Elevation6,646 ft2,025 m
- RouteBlack Mountain Crest TrailClass 1
- Distance2 mi550 ft gain
- Time1 – 3 hrsEasy effort
- SeasonApr – Nov
- RangeBlack MountainsNorth Carolina
Climbing the Black Mountain Crest Trail
From Asheville, drive the Blue Ridge Parkway north to milepost 355.3 and follow NC 128 to the Mount Mitchell summit parking area (the Parkway north of the park is still closed after Helene). The Black Mountain Crest Trail, signed Deep Gap Trail by the park, leaves the picnic area and makes a rocky drop and climb to the open ledges of Mount Craig. This Class 1 out-and-back is too short for SB6K credit; continue over Big Tom, Balsam Cone and Cattail Peak to Deep Gap and back (about 7.6 mi). Stay behind the log borders on the summit to protect rare plants, and expect wind and fog.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (25–35 L)
Hiking Boots
Water
Offline Maps
Headlamp
Satellite Communicator
Whistle
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Sun Hat
Midlayer
Insulated Jacket
Hardshell Jacket
Warm Hat
Buff
Midweight Gloves
Trekking Poles
GPS Device
Power Bank
Water Filter
First-Aid Kit
Emergency Bivy
What to watch for
- High winds
- Low visibility
- Rapid weather shifts
- Slippery terrain
Quests with Mount Craig
South Beyond 6,000Peaks near Mount Craig
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Mount Craig?
Mount Craig is 6,646 feet (2,025 m) tall. It is in the Black Mountains, North Carolina.
How does Mount Craig rank among the South Beyond 6,000?
At 6,646 feet, Mount Craig is the 2nd highest of the 40 peaks of the South Beyond 6,000. The highest is Mount Mitchell.
How hard is it to hike Mount Craig?
The Black Mountain Crest Trail is Class 1, which means hiking on a trail. Yak rates the overall effort easy: 2 miles with 550 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Mount Craig?
Most people take 1 – 3 hours round trip on the Black Mountain Crest Trail, covering 2 miles with 550 feet of elevation gain.
Can a beginner hike Mount Craig?
Usually, if you are fit. The Black Mountain Crest Trail is a common first summit for hikers ready for 1 – 3 hours on their feet. Bring layers, food and water, and check the weather before you start.
When is the best time to hike Mount Craig?
The usual hiking window is April to November. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.
Climb Mount Craig with Yak
Plan your route on a topo map, check the summit forecast, then log your climb and see what is left on your list