Black Balsam Knob – Blue Ridge Parkway


Black Balsam Knob or Black Balsam Bald is an area in the Pisgah National Forest at the 420 mile marker on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Part of the ‘Great Balsam Mountains’ it stands as the second tallest at 6,214 ft and 23rd highest of the 40 mountains in North Carolina over 6000 feet. Some of the most beautiful panoramic views can be seen since almost completely devoid of trees above the 6,000 foot mark. A hike along the trail between Black Balsam Knob, Sam Knob and Tennent Mountain offers 3 miles without ever dropping back into the trees. Visible peaks from the Knob include Shining Rock 3 miles away, Looking Glass Rock at 5 miles, Cold Mountain at 6, Mt. Pisgah at 9, and on extremely clear days (Great Smoking Mountains warning…) Mt. Mitchell the highest point in the Eastern USA at 45 miles away! With many hiking options and only .5 miles to the first balds this is one of the most superb hiking areas you’ll find along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Since most of the trails are unprotected by trees you fair skinned folks may want to bring sunscreen along. And if you over heat too much three miles north is a swimming hole named ‘Skinny Dip Falls’ no don’t skinny dip for crine out loud.


As usual this is just a sneak peak of the camping area beneath the trees at dusk. Stay tuned for the teased daylight version…..

Get Out There!


35°19'32.93"N, 82°52'54.96"W




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