Black Balsam-Graveyard Fields Loop (10.0 miles; d=13.70)
Read MoreBlack Balsam/Graveyard Fields Loop Hike Route Map
The approximate track of my hike around Black Balsam and Graveyard Fields as depicted a la Google Earth...
Black Balsam/Graveyard Fields Loop Hike Route Map
The approximate track of my hike around Black Balsam and Graveyard Fields...
After making it to the top of the first rocky knob I was provided a great view of the high peaks to the west. Sam Knob (6,050') is the double topped peak in the center with Little Sam Knob (5,862') and Mt. Hardy (6,110') to its left. Above and beyond Sam is the high point of the Great Balsams, Richland Balsam at 6,410'...
Black Balsam Knob Summit (6,214')
Reaching the summit of Black Balsam I stopped as I always do to pay brief tribute at the plaque memorializing Art Loeb who, as the plaque says, 'Loved these mountains.'
Black Balsam Knob Summit (6,214')
The summit of Black Balsam is so broad that the best views are only seen from its periphery. The true summit sits a hundred feet or so back from the edges on this broad, grassy dome...
Black Balsam Knob Summit (6,214')
Looking southeast from the top of Black Balsam...
Black Balsam Knob Summit (6,214')
Heading to the north side of the summit, this is the panorama back to the south over the valley of Yellowstone Prong...
Black Balsam Knob Summit (6,214')
Making your way north along the broad summit lawn of Black Balsam, it was easy to feel like you are on top of the world...