Chasing Panoramas: Hiking the Art Loeb Trail to Black Balsam Knob & Tennent Mountain

Written By Jana Poirier

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

Jana Poirier