The Highest Town East Of The Mississippi Is In North Carolina And There’s Loads To See And Do

North Carolina is a state of extremes, like having the largest zoo in the world, and bragging rights for the highest peak east of the Mississippi (Mount Mitchell). But not many people realize the Tar Heel State is also home to the highest town east of the Mississippi. The town may be small (only 321 year-round residents) but it's loaded with things to see and do. Take a look at some of the fun things to do in Beech Mountain, North Carolina.

Beech Mountain's elevation is 5,506 feet, making it eastern America's highest town.

Incorporated in 1981, just a year after the famous Beech Mountain theme park known as the Land of Oz closed down for good, the town of Beech Mountain, NC is a community with much to admire and a lot to offer. Take a look.

No matter the season, this versatile town knows how to crank up the adventure.

In winter, the Beach Mountain Ski Resort is the height of activity, offering skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and ice skating.

Check out this detailed review of the Beach Mountain Ski Resort in this video from

Johnathan Buckhouse:

And in the other seasons, the mountain comes alive with an assortment of other fun things to do. Festivals, movies under the stars, and putt-putt golf are but a few of the options in warm weather.

You can also enjoy temps as much as 10 degrees cooler than at the base of the mountain — an ideal situation for exploring the many trails on Beech.

A favorite among locals and visitors alike is the Lower Pond Creek Trail, which features a rustic path that follows a waterfall through a magical forest setting.

While you are hiking Lower Pond Creek Trail, don't miss Upper Pond Creek Trail as well for some of the best hiking in North Carolina. Check out this cool hiking trail in this video from Adam Goes Outside:

Or, take in the only Mile High Yoga class you'll find in North Carolina, with views that seem to go on forever.

That same venue (the 5506' Sky Bar) has live entertainment and cold beverages on the regular, and not just any bands... we promise you'll recognize the music!

Hungry? A handful of restaurants on Beech have you covered for just about any craving you may have.

From German to Mexican, Mediterranean, BBQ, Southern Cooking, a deli, and the best Pizza around, you'll find what you're in search of on top of Beech Mountain.

And don't leave without checking out a one-of-a-kind general store that's like no other. Fred's General Mercantile has a little of everything, and if they don't have it, (as their motto states) you probably don't need it.

Two other must-visits are the White Wolfe Lodge, home to the BBQ restaurant and the best selection of Wizard of Oz keepsakes you'll find anywhere.

Lastly, the Visitors Center is located right on the crest of the mountain as you arrive. It's on the left and worthy of a stop to get trail maps, mountain maps, and more.

To see even more fun things to do in Beech Mountain North Carolina, watch this video from Blue Ridge Mountain Life:

Whether you’re a leaf-peeper and more inclined to head to this mountain retreat in the fall, or you would enjoy all four seasons on top of eastern America’s Highest Town, Beech Mountain has loads to see and do. What are some of your favorite things to do in Beech Mountain, North Carolina?

For a nearby attraction to add to the agenda, the famous Mile High Swinging Bridge on top of Grandfather Mountain is less than 30 miles away.