Black Balsam Knob
Experience breathtaking 360° panoramic views from the open, grassy summit of Black Balsam Knob, a gem of the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Black Balsam Knob
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience breathtaking 360° panoramic views from the open, grassy summit of Black Balsam Knob, a gem of the Blue Ridge Parkway.
"This is one of my new favorite spots. It is beautiful here and worth every step."
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking lot fills quickly! Aim for before 10 AM on weekends to secure a spot.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Shoes Needed
The trail is rocky and root-filled. Good traction is essential for a comfortable hike.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic 360° Views
Summit
Experience breathtaking, unobstructed views of the surrounding Appalachian Mountains. A true 'on top of the world' feeling.
Art Loeb Trail Section
Trailhead to Summit
A moderately challenging, rocky path offering a rewarding climb to the bald summit. Enjoy the unique beauty of the mountain landscape.
Wildflower Blooms
Trailside
During spring and summer, the trails are adorned with vibrant wildflowers, adding a splash of color to your hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Arrive Early!
Dress for Success: Layers & Footwear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking lot fills quickly! Aim for before 10 AM on weekends to secure a spot.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Shoes Needed
The trail is rocky and root-filled. Good traction is essential for a comfortable hike.
🧥 Pack Layers
Winds at the summit can make it feel cooler. Bring a jacket or layers for comfort.
🦟 Bug Spray is a Must
Especially if hiking through taller grasses, expect bugs.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking lot fills quickly! Aim for before 10 AM on weekends to secure a spot.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Shoes Needed
The trail is rocky and root-filled. Good traction is essential for a comfortable hike.
🧥 Pack Layers
Winds at the summit can make it feel cooler. Bring a jacket or layers for comfort.
🦟 Bug Spray is a Must
Especially if hiking through taller grasses, expect bugs.
🐶 Pet-Friendly Trail
Well-behaved dogs are welcome, but ensure they can handle the rocky terrain. 
🥪 Bring a Picnic
The summit views are perfect for enjoying a meal with a view.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Black Balsam Knob for its incredible 360-degree views and relatively easy accessibility, calling it a 'high reward for relatively low effort.' The short hike makes it ideal for a quick adventure, though parking can be a challenge. Some mention the rocky terrain and the need for good footwear and layers.
"Not a difficult hike and SO worth it! Just do it! It was a windy, slightly overcast day and the view was still stunning."
Rhonda S
"What a beautiful hike! It is a little rocky and steep but nothing too strenuous! I would advise you to get to the parking lot no later than 9-10 as it fills up quickly! Wear good hiking shoes and bring water! Bug spray is a must for Black Balsam Knob and Sam Knob as you'll be hiking in the weeds lol! The views are so gorgeous"
Crystal Temple
"Comfortable hike with a some rocky elevation toward the end. This is broken up by a short meadow where you can catch your breath before finishing the last elevated area. Trail is worn well with a combination of small stones initially, followed by dirt-root terrain and then various size rocks that provide steps amongst the trail. Be sure to wear shoes that work well with this mixed terrain. Also, pending the time of year and time of day, you'll want to bring a cool weather jacket or layer up as the temperature is cooler along with a breeze at the top. We hoped to catch the sunset and full moon but unfortunately the clouds came in about 15 before we had a chance to see it. Fortunately we were able to get some good viewing in before the clouds. Despite several hikers on the trail and a few photo shoots going on along the way, it did not feel crowded; there was plenty of room for everyone. Parking can be challenge. Definitely a trail worth doing along with the reward of spectacular views."
patty hedges
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Black Balsam Knob is located off the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 420. The trailhead is accessible from the Art Loeb Trail parking area. It's about an hour's drive from Asheville, NC.
The Blue Ridge Parkway can experience closures due to weather, especially ice in winter. Always check the Parkway's official status before your trip.
Navigate to Milepost 420 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. The parking area for the Art Loeb Trail, which leads to Black Balsam Knob, is clearly marked.
Public transportation options are very limited in this mountainous region. Driving is the most practical way to reach Black Balsam Knob.
While there isn't a designated campground directly at the trailhead, dispersed camping is popular in the surrounding Pisgah National Forest. Be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee or ticket required to hike Black Balsam Knob. It's a public access trail.
Black Balsam Knob is accessible year-round during daylight hours. The Blue Ridge Parkway has its own seasonal hours and potential closures.
Parking at the Art Loeb Trailhead for Black Balsam Knob is free. However, the lot is small and fills up very quickly.
While technically possible, hiking at night is not recommended due to the rocky terrain and lack of lighting. It's best to complete the hike before dark.
No reservations are needed for hiking Black Balsam Knob. However, due to its popularity, arriving early is highly recommended.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The most direct route to Black Balsam Knob is about 1.4 miles out and back, with an elevation gain of around 354 feet. You can extend your hike by connecting to the longer Art Loeb Trail.
The hike is generally considered moderate. It involves some rocky sections and elevation gain, but it's manageable for most fitness levels.
Expect stunning 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains. It's a truly spectacular payoff for a relatively short hike. +1
Yes, the shorter out-and-back trail is manageable for families. However, keep a close eye on children due to the rocky terrain and steep drop-offs.
Bring water, snacks, sturdy hiking shoes, layers of clothing, and bug spray. A camera is essential to capture the incredible views!
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no food services or restaurants directly at Black Balsam Knob. You'll need to bring your own food and drinks.
The nearest dining options are in Brevard or Asheville, NC, which are about an hour's drive away. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy at the summit.
Absolutely! The summit offers incredible views, making it a perfect spot for a picnic. Just remember to pack out everything you pack in.
After your hike, consider heading to Brevard for charming local eateries or Asheville for a wider variety of culinary experiences.
Pack easy-to-carry, non-perishable items like sandwiches, trail mix, fruit, and plenty of water.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography, casting beautiful colors across the landscape. Golden hour is particularly stunning.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive 360-degree views. A tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions at sunrise/sunset.
The entire summit offers incredible photo opportunities. Look for unique rock formations and the sweeping vistas. The trail itself also provides scenic shots.
Drone usage may be restricted in national forest areas. It's best to check current regulations with the Pisgah National Forest before flying.
All seasons offer unique photographic opportunities. Spring and summer have wildflowers, fall boasts vibrant foliage, and winter can offer dramatic, snow-dusted landscapes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, and ensure everyone wears sturdy shoes, as the trail can be rocky. Keep a close eye on little ones, especially near the edges of the bald. Consider making it a part of a larger day trip. Nearby attractions like Graveyard Fields offer additional hiking opportunities and waterfalls, making for a full day of outdoor adventure.
The relatively short hike means less time spent on the trail and more time enjoying the summit views and family fun.💰 Budget Travelers
Packing a picnic is highly recommended, saving you money on dining out.
🐶 Dog Lovers
+1 Ensure your dog is well-behaved and comfortable with rocky terrain, as parts of the trail can be challenging. Always keep your dog on a leash to respect other hikers and protect the natural environment. Remember to bring extra water for your dog and be mindful of the weather, as the exposed summit can get hot in the summer. Cleaning up after your pet is essential to keep this beautiful area pristine.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Art Loeb Trail
Hikers often describe the Art Loeb section to Black Balsam Knob as rocky and root-filled, requiring good footwear and a steady pace. The trail ascends gradually, with some steeper, more challenging rocky sections closer to the summit. This varied terrain adds to the adventure and ensures a good workout before you reach the breathtaking views.
For those looking to extend their experience, the Art Loeb Trail connects to other trails in the area, allowing for loop hikes or longer treks. It's a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Pisgah National Forest and experience the rugged charm of the Appalachian Mountains.
The Allure of the 'Balsam' Knobs
These open areas are a hiker's paradise, providing unobstructed vistas and a sense of being on top of the world. The transition from forest to bald is often dramatic, and the feeling of walking through open meadows with panoramic views is a major draw for visitors. The unique geology and microclimate contribute to the distinct flora found on these balds.
When visiting, remember that these are fragile ecosystems. Stick to marked trails to minimize your impact and help preserve the natural beauty of the Balsam Knob area for future generations.
Capturing the Magic: Photography Tips
For the best photographic results, aim for the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. The soft, warm light dramatically enhances the landscape and creates beautiful shadows. Be prepared for changing weather conditions; clouds can add drama to your shots, but also bring cooler temperatures, so pack accordingly.
Don't forget to capture the details too! The unique textures of the rocky trail, the vibrant wildflowers in bloom during warmer months, and the changing colors of the foliage in autumn all offer fantastic photographic opportunities.
+1 The journey to the summit is as picturesque as the destination itself.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit