The Sam Knob Summit Hiking Trail is considered one of the “Best Hikes In Asheville.” This 2.2-mile out and back hike starts at 5,800 feet in elevation and ascends through a “Canadian” ecosystem of evergreen forests and expansive meadows until it reaches the double peak of Sam Knob at 6,050 feet. Many say the 360-degree view from this 6,000-foot bald mountain is the best in Western North Carolina. You can do an out and back hike on the Sam Knob trail or you can do a loop by adding the Flat Laurel Creek Trail. The loop will add another 3.5 miles to the total hike. Located in the Black Balsam/Shining Rock Wilderness area of Western North Carolina. The trail begins at the Black Balsam Road parking area and ascends 400 feet to the summit.

Directions from Asheville: Merge onto I-240 W/US-70 W. Keep right at the fork to continue on I-26 E, follow signs for Interstate 240 W/Interstate 26 E/Interstate 40. Take exit 33 for North Carolina 191 toward Blue Ridge Parkway. Use the left 2 lanes to turn left onto NC-191 S/Brevard Rd. Turn right onto Blue Ridge Pkwy. Turn right onto Black Balsam Knob Rd. Destination will be on left.