Richard Balsam: The Highest Point on the Blue Ridge Parkway
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Asheville is the gateway to exploring the beautiful Blue Ridge mountains. One of America’s top rated drives, the Blue Ridge Parkway, is within easy reach of the city limits. Lots of great places to explore via a daytrip. I took many during my 2 years living in the city. Living 10 min from the Parkway was definitely a perk! While it is not extremely popular, the parkway’s highest point is just an hour away. Not only is it the highest peak in the Great Balsam mountains at 6410 feet, but it is also the 10th highest east of the Mississippi.
A peaceful overlook in the pines
At Milepost 431, you will see a sign proclaiming Richard Balsam as the highest elevation on the Parkway. At this point, you are located at 6053 feet. The air is cooler and there are beautiful pines everywhere. This is a great photo opp to commemorate your drive on the Parkway. From here, you can continuing driving on enjoying the magnificent mountain scenery, or opt to take a beautiful hike amongst pine trees.
The summit hike
Just down the road at the Haywood Jackson overlook, you will find the gorgeous 1.5 mile loop hike to the summit of Richard Balsam. The hike is a bit steep with an elevation gain of around 400 ft (starting at 6053 and ending at 6410). Because of the altitude and resulting cool temps, it’s a great choice on a hot summer day. Expect temps to be about 15 degrees cooler, which can be a real treat depending on where you are coming from. As Asheville summers are hot and humid, this hike is totally refreshing in comparison. Note: the drive is often closed during the winter months, so you will want to get out here in the spring or summer.
This trail is by far one of the best on the entire Parkway because of its’ isolated nature and abundance of gorgeous fresh smelling Fraser fir trees and beautiful green moss. You will be reminded of a Christmas tree farm with the scent of pines in the air. On a hot summer day, this is not a bad thing! The trail is moderately strenuous as you make a 380 foot climb to the summit. However, the gradual nature of the climb, combined with the short distance, keeps it from feeling overly challenging. Not many views of the mountains, although there are a few decent views near the end. When you arrive at the summit, there is a nice sign to commemorate your journey.
How hard is the hike?
A hiking stick will come in handy during the first portion of the hike (mostly uphill). Regular hikers should find the hike reasonably easy, although the high altitude could make the trek feel a bit harder than usual. Be aware that there are lots of roots and downed trees along the hike, and thus, hiking shoes are a must. The trail is maintained and easily to follow with numbered markers along the route. There are a number of benches if you need to rest along the way.
Why you should put this one on your list?
Although there is no view at the summit, the smell of fresh pines in the air, the cooler temps, and most importantly, the lack of crowds make the Richard Balsam trail the perfect choice for nature lovers seeking a cool escape. You’ll get in a great heart pumping workout, see lots of birds (it’s a great birdwatching destination), and enjoy a lovely trek through natural surroundings.
Location & Parking
The Richard Balsam overlook is located at Milepost 431.4. The hiking trail is located at the Haywood Jackson overlook at Milepost 431. By the way, the views are fabulous at this overlook!
Where to eat pre-hike?
Stop for breakfast in Asheville before heading out. There are a number of great local establishments. My recommendations:
Biscuit Head: Serves homemade cathead biscuits with jam or gravy flights. Good local coffee. Fun artsy vibe.
All Day Darling: Serves delicious pastries plus a full breakfast menu. Try a bagel sandwich or a Shakshuka. Features a shady outdoor patio. Serves great coffee from premier Carolina based company Counter Culture.
Alternatively, there is a scenic picnic area at the Haywood Jackson overlook. Consider packing a lunch and enjoying the beautiful mountain scenery. Couldn’t hurt to spend some more time in the mountains!
