Black Balsam Art Loeb South Trailhead — Attraction in Brevard

If you're section hiking or backpacking, this is a tough trail. Going NOBO is no joke! Do your research if you are camping on this trail. Some water sources are seasonal so don't plan on constant water sources. There are two shelters along the trail and that is where you'll find your constant water source. There are no privies so get used to squatting in the trees. Be sure to dig a hole 500ft away from water sources so you don't contaminate good drinking water. Be prepared for chilly and cold nights at the higher elevations. Always be prepared for cold weather to pop up. Elevation gain going NOBO is pretty strenuous with lots of switchbacks. Once you get to the BRP and a little further up from it is when it levels off. Going SOBO has its challenge as well once you hit the narrows. The elevation gain in there is rough with steep ledges. There are a couple of good water sources right away in between camp Daniel Boone and the camp site before the narrows. These could be seasonal water sources so make sure you're prepared with plenty to drink. Enjoy the trail! Give the trail its due respect because it'll make you work for it! It's a great training trail for anyone trying to get in shape for hiking and...

Trail is approx 30 miles from end to end. I hiked south bound and did the trail in a little over 12 hours. Some of the trail is extremely well marked and other spots will have you questioning your sanity. Plenty of hikers on the weekends and borderline over-crowded around Black Balsam Knob. Water sources were available every 5-7 miles. The elevation change around Pilot Mountain is the absolute hardest part of this hike. Hiking poles very much recommended. The treated lumber steps around BRP can get slick, as in I slipped and fell with hiking poles. Overall a very enjoyable hike, flower gap delivered on its namesake. Hiked the end of September and leaves on the beech trees were the primary color...

This is a there and back 30 mile trail.

First, let me tell you, Art Loeb has some impressive views and amazing climbs. I believe this trail has been ranked in the top ten trails in several major publications. This is like a condensed Appalachian challenge. It's fun, not too far from town, and a great experience.

Second... The north to south trail is much easier. The climbs you hit going up from the south to north trail are challenging. It's not so much steepness as it is a just constant upward...