Big Butt Mountain facts for kids

Big Butt Mountain or Big Butt are interesting names for five different mountains found in Western North Carolina. Don't let the name fool you! The word "Butt" in this case doesn't mean what you might think. It actually comes from an old word, "butte", which describes a type of hill or mountain that stands out with steep sides and a flat top.

These unique mountains are spread across several counties in North Carolina, each with its own special features and elevation.

Mountains Called Big Butt

It's pretty cool that there are five different mountains all sharing a similar name! This can sometimes be a bit confusing, but it also shows how many interesting peaks there are in the region. Each "Big Butt" mountain is a distinct natural landmark.

Big Butt Mountains in Buncombe County

Big Butt (Buncombe and Yancey counties), viewed from Mount Mitchell

Two of the mountains named Big Butt are found partly in Buncombe County.

• One Big Butt Mountain is located where Buncombe County meets Haywood County. This mountain reaches a height of about 4,767 feet (1,453 m). That's almost a mile high!
• Another mountain called Big Butt is found where Buncombe County borders Yancey County. This one is even taller, standing at about 5,948 feet (1,813 m). It offers great views, especially from nearby Mount Mitchell.

Big Butt Mountain in Haywood County

There is also a mountain named Big Butt located entirely within Haywood County, North Carolina. This mountain is special because it sits inside the famous Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It's one of the taller peaks in the area, with an elevation of about 6,024 feet (1,836 m). Imagine hiking up there!

Big Butt Mountain in Macon County

Big Butt, Macon County viewed from Rabun Bald

In Macon County, you'll find another mountain called Big Butt. This peak reaches an elevation of about 5,000 feet (1,500 m). From certain spots, like Rabun Bald, you can get a fantastic view of this mountain.

Big Butt Mountain in Madison County

Finally, there's a Big Butt mountain located in Madison County, North Carolina. This mountain actually sits right on the border between North Carolina and Greene County, Tennessee. It has an elevation of 4,806 feet (1,465 m), making it another significant peak in the region.