Our most recent hike was a spectacular one!
6,000 feet in elevation- very few trees to obstruct any view.
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| Rocky Paths |
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| Icy Rocks |
This was a great hike for us. It really was like we were in a different country at times. Exploring the landscape and taking in each view around every corner, it was never a dull view or mundane. The people we met were all very much like us happy to be there and happy to have achieved a goal. The views can't be appreciated from pictures it just does not do it justice. We felt invigorated afterwards and yet a good tired. We went on this hike as a birthday wish for my husband though at first due to the weather and our lack of gloves we were going to turn around, but we were so glad our adventurous side said "LET'S DO THIS". If you are unsure of this hike I have to say it can be difficult to navigate the rocky paths and depending on the weather it can be slippery. We did this hike twice, the first time we only made it to the first view which was not 360 degree views, that was in the summer and the rocks were not slippery but it was still a little challenging for our group of 4 adults and 4 children. But we still had a good time and many laughs. The second time it was 36 degrees outside at the trail head and signs of snow and ice were present this made this hike much more interesting. Each season will bring you different views and I am sure different challenges! Let us know if you go and how you enjoyed it!
I NEVER WENT ON A HIKE I REGRETTED
5 Mile Loop
At milepost 420.2, around 26 miles from Asheville you will find Black Balsam Knob. This hike has spectacular 360 degree views. These treeless mountaintops in the Pisgah National Forest bring people from all over to experience sweeping views. 6,000 ft. elevation with almost no trees at the very top, as you approach the summits it reminded me of the rolling hills of Ireland more than North Carolina.
Walk almost three miles on the balds without dropping back into the trees. It's definitely unique for our area. At 6,214 ft., Black Balsam Knob is the 23rd highest of the 40 mountains in North Carolina over 6,000 ft. The trailhead is not accessible much of the winter, since the Parkway often closes for snow or ice.
NOTE:
- DRESS IN LAYERS - Higher elevations means colder temperatures.
- WALKING STICKS - Very helpful on this hike
- NOT STROLLER OR WHEEL CHAIR ACCESSIBLE - though we did see many family's with infants in back packs!
- DOG FRIENDLY - On leash (though puppies or elderly dogs may not like this hike)
- HIKING SHOES -Wear good hiking shoes with ankle support I dubbed this hike as ankle breaker mountain. This trail has many rocks there are many times we slipped and almost took a header.
- PICNIC WORTHY - When you reach the top it's a great place to sit, relax, and have a nice snack or lunch. (Pack in, Pack out there are no garbage cans)
- SAY CHEESE - These images can't be seen from the road, this hike is a unique panoramic view of the mountaintops bring a camera.
- BATHROOM PLEASE - there is a bathroom near the parking lot
- CHECK THE WEATHER - Often times if it is icy they will close this trail.
- NOT ENOUGH - Nearby there are several other hikes to go on.
- CHILDREN - This is a great hike but if endurance is not your child's strong suit you can always hike up to the top and avoid the loop but keep in mind going down is often harder than going up on the slippery rocks.
Driving DirectionsFrom the Blue Ridge Parkway, look for the "Black Balsam" sign near milepost 420, just south of Graveyard Fields and north of Devil's Courthouse. It's about 26 miles from the NC 191 Parkway entrance in Asheville (NC Arboretum). It's a super-scenic drive with plenty of overlooks along the way, so allow about an hour to drive. For the 5-mile loop, drive about 7/10 of a mile down the road and look for the trail on the right. Continue another half mile for restrooms and other trails. This section of the Parkway is often closed in the winter for ice and snow. See Parkway closure updates.
