Black Balsam Knob Visitors Guide

Off the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina is Black Balsam Knob, nestled between the Shining Rock Wilderness and the Middle Prong Wilderness. The trail up to its summit is one of the most popular hikes in the Pisgah National Forest, attracting hundreds of hikers on weekends with pleasant weather.

Black Balsam Knob sits above sea level at 6,240 feet, making it the second tallest peak of the Great Balsam Mountains. Its summit boasts 360-degree views which include Sam Knob, Shining Rock, Cold Mountain, and many more.

The bald terrain offers a glimpse into the past when this mountain and the surrounding hills were heavily logged in the early 1900s. Many of the peaks still remain bald today as the area was also ravaged by destructive wildfires from the locomotives that used to tread up and over these mountains, effectively sterilizing much of the soil.

But do not let Black Balsam Knob’s destructive past deter you from visiting this incredibly beautiful landscape. The views are among the best to be had anywhere in Appalachia and will leave you inspired to hike more and more until you have covered every mile of trail in the area.

Planning a Black Balsam Knob Hike

So, you have decided you want to visit Black Balsam Knob? Good choice! Here is a list of things you should know beforehand to help you get the most enjoyment out of your trip.

Is Black Balsam Knob safe for kids?

Black Balsam Knob is a great place to bring your kids for a fun hike! In fact, it is probably one of the safest hikes up a mountain. However, it is still a mountain, so keep small children close as there are some hazards that can lead to injury or death.

The terrain here is very friendly for adults and children alike. While there are some moderately steep sections, most kids age 7 or older will be able to handle it. However, plan to carry small children up the mountain. I recommend a child backpack carrier like the ClevrPlus Cross Country for a toddler or an Infantino Flip Convertible Carrier for an infant. Leave your stroller in the car as it will be more of a burden than a convenience.

Can you bring pets?

Pets are welcome at Black Balsam Knob, but please clean up after them. Also, it is best to keep your dog(s) on a leash for their safety and the safety of other hikers. Be sure to bring water for your pets as there is no water between the Black Balsam Knob parking lot and the summit.

Is there cell service?

Cell service at Black Balsam Knob and the surrounding areas is spotty at best. There are a few locations where you may be able to send and receive messages or even make a phone call, but do not rely on this. Anyone who needs to know of your location should know before you head out.

Even on the drive to Black Balsam Knob, cell service is unreliable. It does not matter if you have Verizon, AT&T, or any other cellular provider.

Are there bears?

There have been a few black bear encounters around the Black Balsam Knob area in the past several years. While it is unlikely you will see one, you should know how to avoid and handle a black bear encounter just in case.

What to bring on your hike

The hike up to Black Balsam Knob is not long and not incredibly difficult, but it is still a good idea to have a daypack with a few essentials and emergency supplies just in case.

• Water
• Sunblock
• Food
• Rain Gear (i.e., poncho, rain jacket & pants)
• Insect Repellant
• First-aid kit

Water

While the hike up to Black Balsam Knob is not too difficult, it still demands enough physical exertion to work-up a sweat. Be sure to bring enough water to get you through your hike. I recommend 1 liter at a minimum. If you are planning to hike beyond Black Balsam Knob or enjoying the view for a few hours, bring an extra liter. Also, bring extra water if it is going to be hot. While the temperatures on Black Balsam Knob are cooler than the towns below, it can still get warm during the summer months. Plus, there is no shade for most of the hike, so the sun will be beaming down on you almost the entire way.

Sunblock

As just mentioned, there is little tree coverage when hiking up to Black Balsam Knob, so bring sunblock to protect yourself from the sun’s rays. Even when it is not hot, you can still suffer burns if your skin is exposed and unprotected for too long.

Food

A short hike up Black Balsam Knob may not warrant food, but the summit is a beautiful place for a picnic. And while the hike is not too strenuous, having a boost of energy for the climb down (or up) helps.

Rain Gear

Having protection from the rain is a good idea, especially when this high in elevation. The weather can be unpredictable, and a shower or storm can move in quickly. Prepare for the worst and bring a rain jacket and pants, or a poncho. An umbrella may be useful, but if the winds pick up it may be damaged.

Insect Repellent

One might think that bugs will not be an issue at 6,200 feet, but black flies are common here and they bite. This might not be an issue depending on the time of year, but during the warmer months, be prepared by carrying a DEET-based insect repellent.

First-aid Kit

Bring a first-aid kit on your hike. While no one expects to get injured, it is still a real possibility. Black Balsam Knob has plenty of opportunities for trips and falls, so be prepared just in case. Pack a couple of bandages and cleansing wipes at minimum, or you can use a pre-packaged first-aid kit, like this one from Protect Life, which has more than enough medical supplies for a short day hike.

For an extended hike

If you choose to go beyond the summit of Black Balsam Knob, then a few other items are recommended. These include:

• Map and Compass
• Emergency Shelter
• Emergency Blanket
• Water Filter
• Lighter
• Emergency Whistle
• Flashlight

Map and Compass

The trail up to Black Balsam Knob is easy to follow, but if you decide to go beyond the summit it can get tricky. Once past Tennant Mountain, there are some intersections with the Ivestor Gap Trail that can be confusing. And if you make it as far as the Shining Rock Wilderness, you will find that signs and blazes are scarce. It is not hard to find yourself going somewhere you did not intend! I have seen multiple videos and have read stories of hikers getting lost in this area! Be cautious and be prepared!

Having a map and compass will help you stay on track, or in an emergency help you find your way. This can be done with a paper map, like this one from National Geographic, or you can download the Hiking Project app. This app allows you to see your current location on the trail, so it is extremely helpful when it comes to keeping you on your desired path.

Emergency Shelter

Even when not planning to have an overnight stay, venturing too far beyond Black Balsam Knob makes it easier to get lost. I recall reading one story of a couple who got lost during a day hike in the Shining Rock Wilderness and ended up having to sleep under a tree for the night. Do not let this be you! Though we believe this cannot happen to us, what is the harm in bringing a lightweight, emergency shelter just in case?

Emergency Blanket

Once again, if you end up lost, having the means to stay warm can be what keeps you alive. While this is obviously a bigger threat in the colder months, temperatures can still drop to uncomfortably cold at night anytime of the year. Be prepared and pack an emergency blanket or bivy sack. They weigh next to nothing and are cheap!

Water Filter / Purifiers

Between the parking area on Black Balsam Knob and the Shining Rock Wilderness, there is little to no water to be found along the Art Loeb Trail. There are water sources inside the Shining Rock Wilderness, but if you are not sure where you are going then you have no way of knowing when a water source is nearby.

This being the case, having the ability to filter water from any source is crucial, whether it is a natural spring or a mud puddle. The Sawyer Squeeze, in my opinion, is the best water filter available for hikers, especially when combined with a Smart Water bottle, in which it can thread right on top. However, the LifeStraw, purification tablets, and Aquamira are other suitable options.

Lighter and tinder

If you find yourself lost and having to hunker down for the night, having a fire will provide some much-needed comfort. Bring a lighter so you can start a campfire. I recommend a lighter over matches because there is more room for error, especially if you are struggling to get a fire going.

Also bring tinder. While you can scavenge for it, it is much easier to bring a wad of dryer lint. Getting a fire started is the hardest part, especially when everything is damp. Having dry tinder increases your odds of successfully building a cozy fire.

Emergency Whistle

Hopefully, your hike will be injury free, but prepare for the worst. Black Balsam Knob has many visitors every day, but once you venture past its summit, the number of hikers drop drastically, meaning it becomes less and less likely someone will come your way the further you go. Your voice is not as easy to hear as a high-pitched emergency whistle, so if you need help, one of these can be a lifesaver.

Flashlight

If you are stranded overnight, it will not be fun stumbling around in the dark. For this reason, pack a flashlight. Better yet, bring a LED headlamp so your hands can remain free. However, if you are lost, I do not recommend trying to find your way back to your vehicle in the dark. Sometimes, it is best to wait until daylight and start fresh with a rested mind.

How to get there

The trailhead to Black Balsam Knob is located on Black Balsam Knob Road near milepost 420 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Look for a sign that reads “Black Balsam”. Your GPS should navigate you here without any issues.

From Brevard

Approximately 28 miles; 50 minutes

Head northeast on HWY 64 and turn left onto HWY 276. After 15 miles on a winding road through the Pisgah National Forest, you will turn right at the sign for the Blue Ridge Parkway. At the stop sign, turn left onto the Blue Ridge Parkway. Drive approximately 8.5 miles until you see Black Balsam Knob Road on the right. Parking at the trailhead for Black Balsam Knob is 3/4 of a mile ahead. Parking at the Sam Knob Trailhead is an additional 1/3 of a mile.

From Waynesville

Approximately 26 miles; 50 minutes

Head west on HWY 276/Pigeon St for 4.5 miles before turning right onto Edwards Cove Rd. At the stop sign at Lake Logan Road, turn right. Remain on lake Logan Road for approximately 16 miles before exiting right towards the Blue Ridge Parkway. Turn left onto the Blue Ridge Parkway at the stop sign. After 3 miles, turn left onto Black Balsam Knob Road. Parking at the trailhead for Black Balsam Knob is 3/4 of a mile ahead. Parking at the Sam Knob Trailhead is an additional 1/3 of a mile.

From Canton

Approximately 29.5 miles; 50 minutes

Take Pisgah Dr south for 5 miles before turning left onto HWY 276/Cruso Road. After 14.5 miles, turn left at the sign for the Blue Ridge Parkway and left again at the stop sign. After 8.5 miles, Black Balsam Knob Road will be on the right. Parking at the trailhead for Black Balsam Knob is 3/4 of a mile ahead. Parking at the Sam Knob Trailhead is an additional 1/3 of a mile.

From Asheville

Approximately 37 miles; 1 hour

From I-240 W/I-26 E, take exit 33 for NC-191 toward the Blue Ridge Parkway. Turn left onto NC-191 S towards Brevard. In 2.5 miles, turn right onto the Blue Ridge Parkway. After approximately 27 miles, Black Balsam Knob Road will be on the right. Parking at the trailhead for Black Balsam Knob is 3/4 of a mile ahead. Parking at the Sam Knob Trailhead is an additional 1/3 of a mile.

Do you need 4-wheel drive?

Access to the Black Balsam Knob area is paved and a 4-wheel drive vehicle is not necessary.

Is there an admission fee?

No.

Are there public restrooms?

At the Black Balsam Knob trailhead parking, there are no restrooms. However, at the Sam Knob Trailhead at the end of Black Balsam Knob Road, there are privy style facilities.

Parking

After turning on Black Balsam Knob Road, you will drive a short distance before you see parking spots on the right. At the end of the road is another parking lot. Here, you will find the Sam Knob, Ivestor Gap, and Flat Laurel Creek trailheads. There is also the Art Loeb Spur trail that you can use to hike up to Black Balsam Knob.

On weekends and holidays, arrive early to get a parking spot. This trail along with others are incredibly popular among locals and tourists alike. If possible, arrange your hike for a weekday to avoid the crowds and for easier parking.

Hiking Black Balsam Knob

Black Balsam Knob is one of the most visually rewarding short hikes in western North Carolina. You will not be disappointed with the views after reaching the top. However, there are a couple of options for reaching the summit that can make the hike more challenging and even more rewarding. Here are a few hiking routes.

Art Loeb Trailhead on Black Balsam Knob Road

Length:  ~.75 mile (one-way)
Difficulty: Moderate

Parking alongside Black Balsam Knob Road at the Art Loeb Trailhead will be the easiest and quickest route to the summit of the mountain. While not a very difficult hike, it is uphill almost for the entire 3/4 of a mile to the top.

Once you set foot on the trail, there will be a split between the Art Loeb Trail and the Mountains-to-Sea Trail. Keep straight to continue towards Black Balsam Knob. The trail starts through a spruce forest for the first tenth of a mile or so.

You will soon be above tree level and will have to take large steps up onto stone outcroppings. At this point, the views begin to open up and you are likely to stop to admire the scenery, but the views only get better the higher you go.

After hiking up and over the rocky section of the trail, there will be a brief break from the uphill climb. However, the climb will begin again straight up the side of Black Balsam Knob. This area is extremely worn from erosion and heavy foot traffic, but the path forward will be clear.

Almost at the top, you will find a plaque dedicated to Art Loeb, of whom this trail is named after. At this point you will have amazing views to enjoy. From here, head to the summit and explore the surroundings, have a picnic, or just continue to enjoy the scenery before heading back down the way you came.

Art Loeb Spur Trail

Length: ~.75 mile (one-way)
Difficulty: Moderate-Strenuous

For a slightly different and less traveled hike up to Black Balsam Knob, park at the end of the road at the Sam Knob Trailhead parking lot. Head towards Ivestor Gap Trail, which looks like a dirt road, and on the right will be the Art Loeb Spur Trail.

This hike will be a little harder than hiking up from the parking lot along Black Balsam Knob Road. However, you will encounter fewer people, at least until this trail connects with the Art Loeb Trail slightly before the final climb up to Black Balsam Knob summit.

For .4 miles, you will have a moderately difficult climb. Fortunately, this does include plenty of switchbacks. Another plus of using this route is that you will be treated to awesome views of Sam Knob.

After exiting from the brush, the spur trail ends at the Art Loeb Trail. Turn left to start the final climb to the summit.

The Art Loeb Trail

Length: 30.1 miles (one-way)
Difficulty: Very Strenuous

The Art Loeb Trail is a 30.1-mile trail starting at Davidson River Campground in Brevard and ending at Camp Daniel Boone in Canton. Black Balsam Knob, along with other prominent peaks, are along this trail making it one of the best North Carolina has to offer.

Though for more adventurous and experienced hikers, one could hike this entire Art Loeb Trail and summit Black Balsam Knob en route to the end. This trail is considered an excellent trail to help prepare for even longer hikes, such as the Appalachian Trail.

Black Balsam Knob Camping

Black Balsam Knob offers several locations where you can pitch your tent, both alongside the trail and at the summit. If you want to set up a hammock, you will be limited to the early part of the trail starting at the parking area on the side of the Road.

While the summit will provide an awesome sunrise and sunset, be weary of setting up camp here. The winds can get harsh quickly and severe storms can roll in at any time which can make camping here dangerous at times.

Aside from Black Balsam Knob, there are plenty of other campsites in the area. If you travel beyond the summit and past Tennent Mountain, there will be other great campsites with fewer people passing by. There are also campsites on the Sam Knob, Little Sam, and Flat Laurel Creek trails.

Due to bear activity, you are required to have an approved bear canister for storing your food and other scented items. I recommend the BearVault BV450 for 1-2 campers or the BV500 for 3-4 campers. If you do not want to buy a bear canister, you can rent them at many outdoor outfitter stores, including REI. As for bear bags, they are not deemed sufficient for this area so be sure to have a bear canister available for your trip.

For a complete list of what to bring on an overnight camping trip, check out my Basic Overnight Backpacking Checklist.

Beyond Black Balsam Knob

Black Balsam Knob has breath-taking views, but do not underestimate how spectacular the views are from atop of Sam Knob, which has two summits each with their own view. While a slightly longer hike, it is still only moderately difficult. But beware that after rain, trail conditions can be extremely muddy.

Another awesome view can be found by heading south on the Art Loeb Trail from Black Balsam Knob Road instead of toward Black Balsam Knob. The Art Loeb and Mountains-to-sea trail are merged here for through a spruce forest, but the Art Loeb will turn left after about 1.25 miles. Stick straight and shortly after you will find an awesome view of Pilot Mountain in the distance.

All these views are utterly amazing, but the crown jewel is Tennent Mountain. In my opinion, the views here are second to none and you can often enjoy them without the crowd you will see at Black Balsam Knob. The summit of Tennent Mountain is more of a ridgeline so you will be treated to 360-degrees of jaw-dropping views. Hiking here is about one additional mile (one-way) but it is worth the trek. You will not be disappointed!

If you really want to explore around and beyond Black Balsam Knob, then I recommend two things. First, get a copy of Tim Homan’s “Hiking the Shining Rock and Middle Prong Wildernesses”. It is an excellent read providing details of many of the trails, sights, and history of the area. After that, check out hikingproject.com or download the app. These will help you find many trails in the area so you can plan a future hike.

Conclusion

You will not regret a trip to Black Balsam Knob if you plan accordingly, even with the large crowds. One last important item to take is a camera because you will want to at least try to capture the beauty this area has to offer, even though a photograph will pale in comparison to the real thing. But if you are planning your first visit, I can almost guarantee that it will not be your last. You will find yourself coming back for more.