Richland Balsam Trail

Richland Balsam summit at 6,053 feet marks the highest point reached by the Blue Ridge Parkway, and the self-guiding nature trail explores this remarkable high-elevation ecosystem. The loop climbs through a spruce-fir forest that would be more at home in Canada, with interpretive signs explaining the ecology of this ‘sky island’ community isolated by elevation from similar forests hundreds of miles north. The ghostly snags of Fraser firs killed by the balsam woolly adelgid add somber beauty while illustrating the ongoing ecological challenges. The trail’s educational focus and easy accessibility make it an excellent introduction to Southern Appalachian ecology, while the unique forest atmosphere provides a memorable hiking experience.