Gudger’s dramatic tower with its angular concrete elements and rough stone walls was the sixth viewing platform to crown the summit of Mount Mitchell, the tallest peak east of the Mississippi and provide visitors with a spectacular view. (It is variously described as having been 43 and 35 feet tall; based on photographs, Gudger’s design may have reused much of the pre-existing stone tower.) Because of weathering by the fierce winds and cold, and the need for better access, the construction of a new, lower-profile viewing deck was announced in 2005, the 1960 tower was razed in 2006, and the new observation deck was dedicated in 2009.