Mount Jefferson rises 4,665 feet in Ashe County, North Carolina, within Mount Jefferson State Natural Area, standing high above Jefferson and West Jefferson and dividing the north and south forks of the New River. A paved road reaches the summit, which offers sweeping views into North Carolina, Virginia, and Tennessee, and its ridge includes the eastern high point called Luther Rock or Luther Overlook. Geologically, the mountain is part of the Ashe Metamorphic Suite and is composed mainly of dark amphibolite gneiss. Its name changed over time from older, troubled associations and Larson Mountain to Mount Jefferson, and today it is known as a scenic landmark and protected natural area.