This day trip is the most gorgeous 2 hr. hike and scenic drive combination in the region.  5-6hr round trip from Black Mountain (add another 1-2 hrs if you include visiting Mt Mitchel).  45 minute drive to Pinnacle trailhead once you get to the Parkway in Asheville.  Directions to Pinnacle Trailhead– Follow your GPS on I-40 towards Asheville and follow the Blue Ridge Parkway to Mt. Mitchel.  The parking area for Pinnacle trailhead is located 0.6 miles east from the entrance to the Mt. Mitchell State Park on the Blue Ridge Parkway (milepost 355).  After passing the Mt Mitchel Park entrance, look for a dirt road on the south side of the Parkway with a gate across it. This is the old Mt. Mitchell Toll Road.  Park on either side of the Parkway but do not block the gate. Walk through the gate and down the toll road a short way.  The trail starts on the right and climbs a short bank and then proceeds up a ridge that runs parallel to the toll road.  1.5 m. round trip hike,  gradual ascent but steeper at the top.  The view from Pinnacle is unmatched.  The drive from Asheville along the parkway is breathtaking.  The Parkway is often closed for weather so call ahead.   The temps at Mitchel on average are 10-20 degrees cooler than in Black Mountain.