Black Balsam Knob

Tucked just off the Blue Ridge Parkway at milepost 420, Black Balsam Knob stands as one of the most exhilarating short hikes in the Appalachian Mountains. This high-elevation bald in the Pisgah National Forest offers an open, wildflower-lined trail, aromatic balsam groves, and commanding 360-degree panoramas that stretch across the Southern Appalachians. With a summit reaching over 6,000 feet, this mountaintop invites both seasoned hikers and curious newcomers to walk among clouds and rolling peaks.

Getting There

The trailhead begins on the Art Loeb Trail, accessible by a short turn-off from the Parkway near Asheville, North Carolina. Free parking is available near the start, though it fills quickly on clear weekends. GPS coordinates are 35.320700, -82.876200. This location grants immediate access to an alpine-like experience without the grueling trek often associated with high mountain adventures.

The Hike: A Short Journey with a Big Reward

The trail to Black Balsam Knob spans just 1.4 miles round trip, yet it packs in enough elevation gain and rugged terrain to offer a rewarding sense of accomplishment. It’s classified as moderately challenging, with roughly 108 meters of climbing and plenty of rocky ground to navigate. The hike begins with an uphill push through a shadowy grove of balsam fir, where needles blanket the forest floor and the air is laced with the crisp scent of evergreens.

After just over a tenth of a mile, the trees fall away, revealing a sun-soaked meadow bursting with wildflowers. From here, the summit rises clearly ahead, its treeless crown glowing under open sky. The trail threads through swaying grasses and flowering plants, clambers over scattered rock slabs, and reveals new sights with each bend. Bees hum busily from bloom to bloom, and the hum of wind against the ridgeline adds to the highland rhythm.

At 0.7 miles, hikers arrive at the bald summit of Black Balsam Knob. A bronze plaque honors Art Loeb, for whom the trail is named, and the landscape opens in every direction. On clear days, Shining Rock Mountain and even the distant Smokies reveal their layered outlines. The cool mountain air and sweeping views offer the kind of natural high that only a summit can deliver.

Planning Tips and Trail Etiquette

This hike is beginner-friendly, yet weather conditions at elevation can shift quickly. Pack accordingly:

• Bring layers, even in summer
• Carry plenty of water
• Wear sturdy hiking shoes for the rocky ascent
• Pack out all trash to protect the ecosystem

Dogs are welcome on leash, and many families bring children along for this manageable adventure. Due to its popularity, especially in peak wildflower season or fall foliage, consider arriving early to enjoy the trail in relative quiet.

Trail Connections and Nearby Adventures

For those craving a longer hike or an overnight backpacking trip, Black Balsam Knob connects to several other iconic trails:

• Art Loeb Trail continues north toward Shining Rock Wilderness
• Graveyard Ridge Trail and Mountains-to-Sea Trail intersect nearby
• Ivestor Gap Trail offers a scenic loop back with views of Tennent Mountain
• Sam Knob Trail, a short drive from the same road, adds more alpine-like meadow hiking

These adjoining trails expand the day into a longer journey filled with blueberry thickets, forest hollows, and ridge after ridge of undisturbed landscape.

What Hikers Are Saying

Trail reviews on AllTrails consistently award Black Balsam Knob high marks for accessibility and payoff. Hikers praise the wide-open scenery, the quality of the trail, and the photogenic beauty of the summit. Many recommend starting early to avoid crowds and catching the light at golden hour. Some recent visitors noted that while the trail is manageable, it can be muddy after rain and slippery on exposed rocks.

Highlights from recent trailgoers:

• “Absolutely stunning views and not too strenuous”
• “Pisgah is not nearly as crowded as GSMNP and street parking was easy”
• “Great photo opportunities and cool breezes even in June”

Best Time to Visit

While this hike is beautiful year-round, certain seasons elevate the experience:

• Summer brings a lush wave of blooming wildflowers and ripe wild blueberries
• Fall lights up the hillsides in a riot of orange, crimson, and gold
• Winter and spring can bring fog, ice, or dampness, so conditions should be checked ahead of time on the official Blue Ridge Parkway website

Sunrise and sunset are especially striking from the summit. The unobstructed views allow color to spill across the landscape as daylight shifts, making it a favorite spot for photographers.

Supporting the Trail

Black Balsam Knob lies within an area stewarded by volunteers and organizations like The Pisgah Conservancy. Trail maintenance here is a labor of love, and donations or volunteer support help ensure these paths remain open, safe, and wild for generations to come.

Final Thoughts

Black Balsam Knob is a hike that delivers soaring views, fresh air, and the kind of experience that lingers long after boots return to the car. From the balsam-scented woods to the sprawling open summit, it’s a highlight of North Carolina’s Blue Ridge and a must for anyone seeking mountain beauty in a short and satisfying outing. Whether you’re out for a sunrise hike or a midday escape, this grassy giant welcomes you with open sky.