Chasing Panoramas: Hiking the Art Loeb Trail to Black Balsam Knob & Tennent Mountain
Hiking the Art Loeb Trail: Black Balsam Knob Adventure
If you’re looking for one of the most breathtaking day hikes in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Art Loeb Trail at Black Balsam Knob should be at the top of your list. This trail section is a favorite for hikers seeking sweeping panoramic views, high-elevation balds, and a rewarding adventure.
Overview
The Art Loeb Trail is a multi-day National Recreation Trail, but the segment around Black Balsam Knob makes an excellent day hike option. This portion combines moderate-to-strenuous hiking with some of the most iconic vistas in the Southern Appalachians. From open grassy balds to rocky ridgelines, the scenery is truly unmatched.
Trail Distance (Round Trip from parking at FS 816 / Graveyard Fields): ~6–8 miles
Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
Elevation: Peaks at ~6,214 ft at Black Balsam Knob
What to Expect
Starting from the Graveyard Fields or Shining Rock Trailhead, the trail quickly leads you through lush hardwood forests. Early sections are shaded and dotted with streams, offering a refreshing break in the warmer months. As you ascend, the forest opens up, giving way to high-elevation grassy balds with unobstructed views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains.
At Black Balsam Knob, you’ll be rewarded with 360-degree panoramic views. On a clear day, you can see from the Pisgah National Forest to the Nantahala National Forest, making it a prime spot for photography or simply soaking in the majesty of the mountains.
Tips for Hikers
Timing: Early morning is best for fewer crowds and soft light for photos.
Weather: The high balds are exposed, so bring layers and be prepared for wind.
Trail Conditions: Sections can be rocky and muddy; sturdy hiking boots are recommended.
Water & Snacks: Bring plenty of water—there are few water sources once you leave the lower forest.
Wildlife: Keep an eye out for native birds and occasional deer along the trail.
Why Hike Black Balsam Knob
This section of the Art Loeb Trail is ideal for hikers who want dramatic mountain vistas without committing to a multi-day trek. The mix of forested trails, open balds, and high ridgelines makes it perfect for both seasoned hikers and adventurous beginners who are ready for a moderate challenge. It’s also a fall favorite, with golden foliage framing every ridge.
If you’ve ever dreamed of hiking through open, windswept balds with 360-degree mountain views, the Art Loeb Trail in Pisgah National Forest is calling your name. One of the most iconic sections of this trail takes you to Black Balsam Knob and, if you’re up for a bit more adventure, continues on to Tennent Mountain. With a variety of trailheads, waterfalls, and lush forests along the way, it’s a hike that delivers big rewards without a full multi-day commitment.
Why Black Balsam Knob is Special
Perched at 6,214 feet, Black Balsam Knob is one of the highest points along the Art Loeb Trail. Unlike the dense forests you’ll encounter earlier in the hike, the knob opens to grassy “balds” — wide, exposed meadows with sweeping views in every direction. On a clear day, you can see the Pisgah National Forest stretching out beneath you, with ridges rolling into the Shining Rock Wilderness and beyond.
If you continue a bit farther along the trail, Tennent Mountain adds another ridge with stunning panoramic views, making it perfect for hikers who want a longer day adventure. From spring wildflowers to crisp fall foliage, this hike is a year-round favorite for both locals and visitors. Pack layers, plenty of water, and a camera — the views are worth it.
Trail Access Options
Option 1: Black Balsam Road Trailhead (Short & Easy)
This is the quick route to the balds, perfect if you’re short on time or just want the summit views:
Distance: ~0.75–1 mile one-way (~1.5–2 miles round-trip)
Elevation Gain: ~400–500 ft
Highlights:
Starts in shaded forest before opening into the grassy balds
Minimal effort to reach Black Balsam Knob summit
Panoramic 360° views at the top
Extension: Add ~1.5 miles to reach Tennent Mountain for a longer ridge walk and extra vistas
Option 2: Graveyard Fields Trailhead (Longer & Scenic)
For those seeking a full-day hike, starting at Graveyard Fields adds waterfalls, streams, and forested meadows along the way:
Distance: ~3.5 miles one-way to Black Balsam (~7 miles round-trip; ~9 miles round-trip if including Tennent Mountain)
Elevation Gain: ~1,000 ft
Highlights:
Begin with the beautiful waterfalls of Graveyard Fields
Hike through lush hardwood forests and open meadows
Gradually ascend to Black Balsam Knob
Optional extension to Tennent Mountain for more panoramic ridgeline views
This route is ideal if you want to experience a mix of forest, streams, and open summits all in one hike.
What to Expect on the Trail
Forest sections: Cool shade, streams, and small waterfalls (especially from Graveyard Fields)
High-elevation balds: Open, windy, and exposed — layers are essential, even in summer
Views: 360° from Black Balsam Knob; additional ridgeline views from Tennent Mountain
Difficulty: Easy–Moderate from Black Balsam Road; Moderate–Strenuous from Graveyard Fields