Mt. Mitchell to Balsam Gap via Blackstock Knob


Hike Number: 190

Area Location: Black Mountains (Blacks), MST, BRP

Trailhead Location: Mt. Mitchell Parking Lot

Trailend Location: Balsam Gap on BRP

Hike Type: One Way

Hiking Distance (miles): 9.5

Difficulty: Moderate

Elevation Range: 5,320 / 6,684

Total Elevation Gain: 1,600

Total Elevation Descent: 2,800

Route Map: .\Hiking\Maps\0190.pdf

Route Profile: .\Hiking\Profiles\0190.pdf

Download GPX track: .\Hiking\Download\0190.gpx

Trail Description: One of the great sections of the Mountains to Sea Trail with a climb to 6684 ft. Mt. Mitchell as well as 6359 ft. Blackstock Knob. The first part of the hike features exceptional views south from the Black Mountains..

Topos: Mt. Mitchell, Montreat

Special Features: Mountain Views

Flower Season: June

DriveHead: Westgate Shopping Center, Asheville, NC

2nd Meeting Place: Craven Gap on BRP

Driving Distance(Miles-RT): 80

Driving Directions: I240 E to Charlotte St.; left over I-240, then right to Town Mtn. Rd. Left, the right onto BRP. Left onto NC 128 and to Mt. Mitchell Pkg Lot.

Notes: This BRP section is closed in the winter, call the BRP to check status. The Mt Mitchell State Park closes at dark each day. The North facing slopes frequently ice over in winter.

Hike History: A0903, W0904