Sam Knob and Flat Laurel Creek Loop

This is one of my favorite quick "getaway" loops in the Pisgah Ranger District. Turn onto Black Balsam Knob Road (Mile Marker 420 on the Blue Ridge Parkway) go until you reach a dead end and park at the parking lot. You'll see the Sam Knob trail to the right of the public bathrooms. From there, it's 1.8 miles to the summit of the 6050 foot Sam Knob.

I love setting up camp in the middle or closer to the western summit to see the sunset in the west and then have a quick walk from my tent in the morning for sunrise! Being up this high and far from town makes this a great spot for star gazing! When you wake up in the morning and get down to the base of Sam Knob make a right instead of crossing over the big field again to the parking lot. This will take you to Flat Laurel Creek. There will be a stream crossing, but you can do it the majority of the time without getting wet. Head left to go back to the car.

For the fly fishermen out there, be sure to pack some small dries for the beautiful wild brook trout found here. If it's hot, make a right on the trail for some excellent swimming holes and waterfalls to cool off in!

For a more lengthy trip, start at Flat Laurel Creek Trail head off Highway 215 right before the parkway and loop back around using the Mountains to Sea trail!