Topics Related to Mitchell County

Day Trip Itinerary: Explore a Fine Time in Spruce Pine

You have an adventurous side, a side that loves exploring the best that the outdoors has to offer. Yet there’s also your creative side, a side equally in need of nurturing. With a weekend in Spruce Pine you can satisfy both needs.  


Day 1

Penland School (N-46)

Founded 1929 by Lucy Morgan (1889-1981) to promote traditional crafts including pottery, metalworking and weaving. Campus 1 mile S.W.

Spruce Pine Mining District (N-45)

Mica, feldspar, quartz deposits found in region 25 mi. long, 10 mi. wide. Commercial production of mica emerged 1850s.

Asa Gray (N-19)

American botanist and Harvard professor. In July, 1841, investigated flora of this region. He visited Roan Mountain, 12 miles north.

Sink Hole Mine (N-7)

Among oldest of area mica mines. Evidence indicates it was first worked by Indians. Remains 4 mi. S.W.