Burnsville, North Carolina

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Home of Mount Mitchell & 
The Highest Mountains in Eastern America

You remember that feeling, don’t you? The first time you stood on a mountain in North Carolina and looked out over the horizon. That indescribable feeling of being more alive, more engaged, more awake. The mountains are romance for your soul. And who couldn’t use a little more of that?

Burnsville, North Carolina is a charming small town about 40 minutes northeast of Asheville on I-26 (Exit 9, NC Hwy 19). Burnsville is home of Mount Mitchell, the highest mountain East of the Mississippi River. In fact, five of the 10 highest peaks in the entire Eastern U.S. are located in Yancey County. 

Situated between Mt. Mitchell, Grandfather, and the Roan — all legendary mountains in North Carolina — Burnsville is right in the sweet spot. It’s why so many travelers exploring the region between Asheville and Boone or Blowing Rock spend time here. It’s a beautiful setting in the perfect location.

The town of Burnsville is built around a large, grassy Town Square with a statue of its namesake, Otway Burns, in the center. Main Street has restaurants, pubs, shops, art galleries, clothing stores and lodging. Every year the town hosts the Burnsville Metric Bike Race in April, Mt. Mitchell Crafts Fair in August, and Carolina Mountains Literary Festival in September.

Travelers come here for many reasons. They like to hike the backcountry, ride bikes and motorcycles, fish, camp, and explore the mountains. They like to buy antiques and crafts, and discover roadside restaurants and local artists. And they like to look far into the universe at the newly-opened Bare Dark Sky Observatory. 

Burnsville and Yancey County are home to big mountains, clear rivers, a thriving arts community and friendly people. Open all four seasons. Highest mountains, small town charm. Visit YanceyChamber.com to see pictures and read more info.