black balsam knob

Hiking the mountains of Western North Carolina

At 6,214 feet, Black Balsam Knob's ridgeline has no trees to speak of, providing spectacular endless views of the surrounding mountains. Camping is permitted anywhere beyond 500 feet of a road or otherwise designated area. It's an amazing place to witness fall color paint the mountainsides. On a clear day, you can see up to 70 miles away

Elevation Gain: 284 feet
Trail Type: Out-and-back
Skill Level: moderate
Trailhead Elevation: 5,840 feet
Top Elevation: 6,124 feet

Directions from Asheville

1. Travel west on Patton Ave., which is also 19/23 S.
2. Continue on 19/23 S when Patton Ave. becomes Smokey Park Hwy.
3. Turn left on Pisgah Hwy., which is also 151 S.
4. Stay on 151 S until you reach the Blue Ridge Parkway.
5. Turn right to go south on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
6. Turn right on Black Balsam Knob Rd. at milepost 420.

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