One of the most scenic day hikes I've been on in years to notable summits in Pisgah National Forest tucked between the Shining Rock and Middle Prong Wilderness Areas. I started on the Mountains-to-Sea Trail east from NC 215 towards Devils Courthouse. The views from the famous cliffs were just a warm-up for the rest of the day. Next were a series of south-facing cliffs on Chestnut and Silvermine Balds. Then I continued on the Art Loeb Trail to the incredible views from the grassy balds around Black Balsam Knob

I then went down to the Black Balsam Knob Rd parking lot to pick up the Sam Knob Summit Trail. Sam Knob is centrally located between the two wilderness areas and has awesome views from its two exposed summits. The loop is completed by taking the scenic Flat Laurel Creek Trail through a hanging valley. The trail follows the namesake creek by campsites and waterfalls with Sam Knob towering above. Just before you finish you'll also pass right by the base of Wildcat Falls. Easily one of the most scenic hikes in the state.

Hike was 12.1 miles with 2,205 feet elevation gain in 7 hours and 20 minutes.

Hike location
https://goo.gl/maps/HkYbL3cgSnAp74QU7

Hike report
http://www.hikingupward.com/PNF/Black...