Blog 6: Black Balsam Knob, NC

I think everyone here is starting to get into the hard-core Fall mood, including me. You’re ready for leaves to start changing, the temperature to become a little crisper, for pumpkins to be laid about and ciders to be warmed up…with a splash of warm fires crackling in the background. Well lucky for us, the mountains will be switching over to Fall a lot sooner than us who are stuck in the Piedmont. This is probably why I’m posting about Black Balsam Knob as a perfect van spot because my body is craving it. IT’S THE BEST.

Black Balsam Knob is located right off the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina. Not only is it a pretty mild hike up, you get to the top of the knob and get blessed with a 360 degree mountain view (I sense a pattern here with my mountain obsessions). There are so many spots along the hike that you can stop to look at the views if you don’t want to go all the way up but also you can keep going along the Art Loeb Trail if you’re wanting a little more a challenge with more stunning views.

On one of me and Brandon’s first trips together was to the mountains during October and it did NOT disappoint. We hiked up pumpkins and wine (yes you read that right) and carved away to a perfect sunset.

As far as van parking, you can park all along the side road, Black Balsam Knob Road, which is by the trail head. There is also a parking lot provided at the end of the road which allows for another great spot to easily access Black Balsam Knob. Both parking areas are free and allow for extended parking time. This allows for no pressure to move and all the pressure to explore!

Make sure to stock up on food and drinks because there isn’t much close to this area of the Blue Ridge Parkway and you don’t want to have to drive way off the mountain to get anything.

If you guys ever have any questions, comments or concerns, as always, feel free to reach out!

Happy Vanning!

Please park responsibly.