Kid Mountain is the place to BE for Kids and Grownups

Whenever people ask about kid-friendly activities or a place where their children can run around near downtown Burnsville, Kid Mountain always tops the list. As much as I have recommended it, I realized I had never actually visited it myself.  

That’s not exactly true. I frequently walk laps around the Yancey County Public Library, on whose grounds it’s located, and even watched this colorful contemporary playground be constructed. Yet somehow, I never took the time to explore it.  The expression that immediately came to mind when I finally made my way into the playground was “my bad.” How had I missed this treasure? 

Color me blown away. Kid Mountain, with its grand view of the mountains, offers some seriously impressive features. Climbing, sliding, swinging never looked so good or so comfortable. I keep wondering if I’m considered too big to do a little sliding myself. 

A piece of equipment called MOVMNT Electronic Play By Burke, invites kids to move while mashing a series of flashing lights. I liken it to a more physically active version of Whac-a-Mole. I am planning to try this the next time I walk around the library. 

While fun is clearly the name of the game here, so is the idea of tickling children’s curiosity. Two of the panels, for example, teach sign language. Another offers a simple lesson in braille. What a great way for parents to teach their children not only about other children’s differences, but how to be sensitive to them, and how to connect with them.  

The park’s popularity thrills County Project Manager Morgan West. “My biggest goal for Kid Mountain Playground was to create a space where children could learn, explore, and feel a true sense of belonging while playing,” she says. “I wanted the park to be more than just a playground—to be a place that encourages creativity, curiosity, and connection for kids of all ages and abilities, while also giving families a welcoming space to gather together.” 

West said the park was designed with input from the community. “Families and children came together and shared what excited them most,” she notes. Clearly, they shared well. 

As much as I love those learning elements, it’s the music area that makes my heart sing. Xylophones, pipes, drums. Care to have a musical duet with your child? Go for it. While my grownup tush may be too big for the slide, I suspect my grownup spirit appreciates the instruments more than the kids. The moment I heard the sweet sounds those colorful metal bars sent out into the universe, I felt my stress melt swiftly away. It was so calming, I have decided to incorporate a little xylophone play into my future library walks. Neighbors need not worry, though. I promise not to wake them up. 

While there’s ample seating for grownups to hang out on the sidelines, I encourage you to take an active role in joy-making. It may be just the lift you didn’t know you needed. 

Pro-tip: Walk across the street to the far side of the stone school board building and you’ll see one of my favorite mountain views. Trust me; it’s not to be missed!