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Mars Hill University is located in one of the most beautiful regions of the Eastern United States, the mountains of Western North Carolina. The town of Mars Hill, which derives its name from the university, has a population of about 2,200. It is approximately 20 minutes north of Asheville, NC and approximately 45 minutes southwest of Johnson City, TN.
Asheville is the largest city in the western third of the state with a population of approximately 91,000. Asheville has the sophisticated attractions of a major metropolis and is known for its quality arts, crafts, and music offerings. The campus is also 10 miles east of Marshall, the county seat of Madison County.
From the 194-acre campus, which sits at an elevation of 2,330 feet, an inspiring panorama of lofty peaks may be viewed, including the Craggies and Clingman’s Peak. Such scenic attractions as Mount Mitchell, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Craggy Gardens, Linville Falls and Cavern, Biltmore House and Gardens, Big Bald Mountain, and the Blue Ridge Parkway are within easy driving distance.
Mars Hill is a few miles from Weaverville, NC and 20 minutes north of downtown Asheville. Within minutes, you have access to hiking, rock climbing or kayaking along the French Broad River. View some of the oldest mountains in the world when you drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Spend an afternoon hiking Bailey Mountain which is only a few minutes from campus. The Bailey Mountain Preserve is located at 885 Forest St., Mars Hill, NC. In the winter months, Wolf Ridge offers skiing and snowboarding just 14 miles away from campus.
Western North Carolina is well-known for its vibrant arts community, which you can experience on our campus, or in the various galleries and venues throughout WNC. Watch a theatre performance on Mars Hill University’s campus – we’re home to SART which puts on productions throughout the year. Enjoy a concert in Moore Auditorium or Broyhill Chapel, or drive to Asheville to catch a show at one of many music venues. Every October, our campus is home to the Lunsford Festival, the second oldest folk festival in Western North Carolina.
Note: Mars Hill University is accessible in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. Most major roads leading to Mars Hill are open now, at least to passenger car traffic (some remain closed to truck traffic). Interstate 26 coming from the north is closed near Erwin, Tennessee, and Interstate 40 coming from the west is closed near the North Carolina/Tennessee state line, but detours are available. (Be aware that GPS and online mapping sites may not have the most up-to-date or efficient detour information. The State of North Carolina maintains the DriveNC website with current road information.)
MHU Admissions Office
120 Cascade Street, Mars Hill NC 28754
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