Hiking Trails

4. Richland Balsam. 1.5 mile loop to 6,410 ft summit, highest in Balsam Mountains and among loftiest in eastern US. Cool, refreshing hike through a remnant spruce-fir forest. From Sylva (Exit 85) drive East on US 23/74 for 8.9 miles turn left enter the Blue Ridge Parkway, proceed in direction of Asheville. At Milepost 431 turn left into Haywood-Jackson parking overlook. (If traveling West on Blue Ridge parkway, at Milepost 431 turn right into Haywood-Jackson parking overlook.) Trail begins at left rear corner of parking lot and is paved at start.