Black Balsam Knob
Shining Rock Wilderness
easy · 1.5 mi · +350 ft · ~1h · 1h from downtown · Dog friendly
Features: Views, Sunrise, Forest
Black Balsam Knob is an easy 1.5-mile hike in Shining Rock Wilderness, about 1h from downtown Asheville. Plan on 1h with 350 ft of elevation gain. Dogs are welcome.
Directions to the trailhead · Plan a full day around this hike
Best time to go
October
About the hike
Short but spectacular hike to one of the highest points on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Trailhead
35.3279, -82.8766
Make a day of it
- Rocky Face Tavern (Restaurants, ★ 4.6) — 9.0 mi from the trailhead
- 185 King Street (Restaurants, ★ 4.7) — 10.1 mi from the trailhead
- Noblebräu Brewing (Breweries, ★ 4.6) — 10.1 mi from the trailhead
Questions
How long does Black Balsam Knob take?
About 1h for the 1.5-mile hike, with 350 ft of elevation gain.
How hard is Black Balsam Knob?
It's rated easy: 1.5 miles with 350 ft of climbing.
How far is Black Balsam Knob from Asheville?
About 1h by car from downtown Asheville, in Shining Rock Wilderness.
Is Black Balsam Knob dog friendly?
Yes. Dogs are welcome on this trail.
When is the best time to hike Black Balsam Knob?
October, based on its views, sunrise, forest and the season.
Similar trails
- Looking Glass Rock Trail: hard · 6.5 mi · +1700 ft · ~4h · 45 min from downtown · Dog friendly
- Craggy Gardens Trail: easy · 1.4 mi · +350 ft · ~1h · 30 min from downtown · Dog friendly
- Masters Park to Haw Creek Overlook: moderate · 2 mi · +500 ft · ~1h 15m · 12 min from downtown · Dog friendly
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