Big Bald via Appalachian Trail(edit)

based on 23 tracks & routes | |

DIFFICULT

#53 hike out of 616 in Pisgah National Forest |

DIFFICULT

12.7 mi

Distance

6 hrs 11 min

Time

1,791 ft

Elev Gain

Overview

This is a difficult out and back trail to Big Bald on the Appalachian Trail. While there are a couple of challenging climbs, the trail is in good condition, and it is broken up with up and downhill sections along the way.

A couple of miles in, after the first big climb, there is a large open meadows with views of many wildflowers, as well as Big Bald and the nearby Wolf Ridge Ski Resort.

The top of Big Bald is open grassland, providing beautiful, 360º views. Note that there is a way to drive much closer to Big Bald, meaning, which can increase the number of people you may see at the summit.

Getting Started

This hike begins at the Appalachian Trail parking area at Sam's Gap. This is a well established parking area for around a dozen vehicles.

Taking Children

This is a good trail with no big safety concerns. Big Bald would be a good place for children, but the length and climb of this particular route would be a challenging one for most children.

Sights to See

Big Bald

Rate this Hike

★★★★★

Jerry Ellsworth 4 years, 2 months ago

Excellent hike on Sep 12, 2020. Temps were pleasant, and many signs of fall beginning. Wildflowers were beautiful in all the clearings. There was a downpour for 1 1/2 hr on the way out, but didn't ruin the hike. It did show the many drainage issues that need to be addressed on this stretch of trail.

★ ★ ★ ★