Pisgah National Forest — Black Balsam Knob

Black Balsam Knob is the kind of hike that earns a permanent place in a kid's outdoor memory. At 6,214 feet, the knob sits above the treeline in Pisgah National Forest, and the approach via the Art Loeb Trail is a rocky, exposed scramble that feels genuinely wild. For families with kids who can handle moderate to strenuous terrain, the payoff is exceptional — 360-degree views of the Southern Appalachians from one of the highest accessible points in the eastern US.

The trail from the Black Balsam trailhead to the summit is about 1.7 miles round trip with 400 feet of elevation gain. The trail is rocky and uneven — proper hiking shoes are required, not optional. In good weather, fit kids ages 8 and up can complete it in 1.5-2 hours round trip. The summit itself is wide open, wind-swept, and genuinely impressive.

The same trailhead accesses Sam Knob (a gentler 1.5-mile loop with its own excellent views) and the Ivestor Gap Trail. Combining Black Balsam and Sam Knob makes for a satisfying 4-5 hour half-day.

This is serious mountain terrain. Afternoon thunderstorms are a genuine safety concern above the treeline — start by 8AM and plan to be heading back by noon. Mountain weather at 6,000+ feet changes without much warning. Layers, rain gear, and real footwear are non-negotiable.