Mount Mitchell, North Carolina, Appalachian High

A short while later, we were back on the four lane, and then the interstate, I26 to I40 near Asheville, North Carolina.  Destination: the highest point East of the Mississippi River, Mount Mitchell, North Carolina.  Our time on the interstate was mercifully brief, and unbeknownst to us, our navigator had a special treat in store for us.  The Blue Ridge Parkway was our home for the next 70 glorious miles.  Not long after I realized we were on one of the great highways of our land, I had a brilliant idea: Beethoven’s 6^th Symphony, “Pastoral.”  The music and the scenery seemed to blend perfectly until almost the very top of the mountain.  Even the timing was seemingly perfect.  Appalachian High, Carolina!

By the time we reached the summit parking lot, it was legitimately chilly.  The jaunt to the top is quick; the view again breathtaking, rivalling its neighbor in Georgia. 

My question: “Why do all these high points have to be on the top of mountains?”  We then speculate what it would be like to visit all the lowest points in all the states.  W
e decide not to make plans.