Hiking Trails: Grassy Knob Trail (steep trail to USFS area)

Hiking Trails > Blue Ridge Parkway > North Carolina > Grassy Knob Trail

Sleepy Gap Parking Area - Parking area for Grassy Knob Trail

Trail Description:

The Grassy Knob Trail is a difficult trail compared to many others along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The trailhead is not very well marked, the hike is very steep for .9 miles and doesn't level off once, and as a result, doesn't offer much of a 'beaten path'. The Grassy Knob Trailhead is located in the Sleepy Gap Parking Area, the very first overlook on the right after you pass through the Grassy Knob Tunnel (heading south). There are a few different trails that converge here, namely the Mountains to Sea Trail, the Shut-in Trail, and the Grassy Knob Trail. Head right on the Mountains to Sea Trail, identifiable by the white circle blaze. Go roughly 50 feet or so, and you will see a trail head uphill on the right. Follow this!

When I hiked this trail, I probably strayed off course at least 10 times on the way up. With no leaves, the view is decent at the top, and there is a cool make shift shelter and fire ring that looks pretty cool. Looks to be a popular spot for bears as this doesn't seem to be a well traveled trail what so ever.

Coming down was just as difficult, the trail is hardly there. The only thing good about navigating is that you can basically only go one general direction, up or down along the ridge. But it does make for difficult hiking, especially for lesser experienced folks.

Length of Trail:

Rating of Difficulty:

Very Difficult. Strenuous hike, very difficult to find your way.

Scenery:

Very pretty, did surprise a red tailed hawk along the way.

Directions to Trail head:

From Asheville (heading South): Blue Ridge Parkway to mile 397.3, the first overlook after passing the Grassy Knob Tunnel. Parking area is on the right (Sleepy Gap Parking Area, Elevation 2930)

Special Notes:

Tough trail, bring a walking stick and water!