Skip to Content

Sign Up For the Jackson County Newsletter

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Visit Thoughtfully: A Welcome Back to Jackson County - How You Can Help Learn more

Black Balsam Trail

Transport yourself to New England on this gorgeous route with treeless mountaintops and crisp air.

One of the greatest hikes along the Blue Ridge Parkway, Black Balsam Trail scales Black Balsam Knob, the 23rd highest mountain in North Carolina. Once you reach 6,000 feet, the mountaintops are almost completely void of trees, making for incredible views and invigorating hikes. Click here to view/download the Black Balsam Trail topographic map.

Contact Information

Get Directions 35.31773, -82.874637
Photo of Black Balsam Trail

Get Directions to Black Balsam Trail

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.


A gathering of good friends enjoying the outdoors and the beauty of Black Balsam. Shot on May 27, 2017.
-Videographer/Author: Keith Kunstmann

View more hikes on the Jackson County hiking/trail map (download).

Trails and Waterfalls can be dangerous; take no chances, only photos for memories. Read our Safety and Insider tips to have a safe, fun and enjoyable trip to Jackson County.

Leave No Trace — Seven Principles

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
3. Dispose of Waste Properly
4. Leave What You Find
5. Minimize Campfire Impacts
6. Respect Wildlife
7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors

For more details, visit www.lnt.org
©1999 by the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics

Discover Jackson County

Outdoors

Get our FREE visitor guide! Download now!  

Receive Jackson County News

Sign up to receive Jackson County news in your inbox!

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

By submitting your name and email address, you agree to our terms and conditions.