Richland Balsam Trail
Shining Rock Wilderness
easy · 1.5 mi · +300 ft · ~35 min · 55 min from downtown · Dog friendly
Features: highest point on BRP, spruce-fir, interpretive
Richland Balsam Trail is an easy 1.5-mile hike in Shining Rock Wilderness, about 55 min from downtown Asheville. Plan on 35 min with 300 ft of elevation gain. Dogs are welcome.
Directions to the trailhead · Plan a full day around this hike
About the hike
Interpretive loop at the highest point on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Trailhead
35.3556, -82.9856
Make a day of it
- Clyde's Restaurant (Restaurants, ★ 4.6) — 7.7 mi from the trailhead
- Assembly on Main (Restaurants, ★ 4.3) — 7.8 mi from the trailhead
- Fuego Modern American Cuisine (Restaurants, ★ 4.8) — 8.1 mi from the trailhead
Questions
How long does Richland Balsam Trail take?
About 35 min for the 1.5-mile hike, with 300 ft of elevation gain.
How hard is Richland Balsam Trail?
It's rated easy: 1.5 miles with 300 ft of climbing.
How far is Richland Balsam Trail from Asheville?
About 55 min by car from downtown Asheville, in Shining Rock Wilderness.
Is Richland Balsam Trail dog friendly?
Yes. Dogs are welcome on this trail.
Similar trails
- Cradle of Forestry Loop: easy · 1 mi · +100 ft · ~20 min · 40 min from downtown · Dog friendly
- Joyce Kilmer Memorial Loop: easy · 2 mi · +200 ft · ~45 min · 1h 35m from downtown · Dog friendly
- Heintooga Ridge Trail: moderate · 5.6 mi · +800 ft · ~2h 45m · 1h 10m from downtown
Updated