Top 15 Natural Monuments in Haywood County

Haywood County offers several natural monuments with expansive views. Black Balsam Knob, a treeless bald at 6,214 feet, provides panoramic vistas of the Blue Ridge and Great Balsam mountain ranges. Another excellent spot is Waterrock Knob Summit, accessible from the Blue Ridge Parkway, known for its magnificent distant views of several large Appalachian ranges, especially at sunrise and sunset.

Yes, several natural monuments are suitable for families. Black Balsam Knob is ideal for short hikes and picnics. The Graveyard Fields Overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway is another popular stop with a parking area, restrooms, and trail access, making it convenient for families. Additionally, Standing Rock Overlook also offers family-friendly access and views.

Haywood County is rich in wildlife, especially within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The Cataloochee Valley, a remote part of the park accessible from Haywood County, is particularly known for its abundant wildlife, including elk, white-tailed deer, black bears, and wild turkeys. Dawn and dusk are the best times for wildlife viewing, particularly for elk.

Many natural monuments in Haywood County are connected by or accessible via excellent hiking trails. The Art Loeb Trail provides relatively easy access to the breathtaking mountain views from Tennent Mountain summit. You can also extend your hike from Black Balsam Knob by connecting to the Art Loeb Trail. For more challenging routes, the Shining Rock Wilderness Area, including Cold Mountain, offers extensive hiking opportunities. You can find more running trails in the area, including parts of the Shut-In Trail, by visiting the Running Trails in Haywood County guide.

Yes, Haywood County features beautiful waterfalls. Mouse Creek Falls is a 45-foot waterfall reachable by hiking along an old railroad grade. Another notable waterfall is Upper Graveyard Falls, located within the Graveyard Fields area. Additionally, Soco Falls, a beautiful twin waterfall, is located near Maggie Valley and is worth the potentially rocky descent.

The natural monuments in Haywood County offer unique beauty throughout the year. Spring brings lush greenery and wildflowers, while autumn transforms the landscape into a kaleidoscope of colors, making it a popular time for scenic drives and hikes. Summer is ideal for outdoor activities, and even winter offers opportunities for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, though some roads like the Blue Ridge Parkway may have seasonal closures.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a prime location for scenic drives and numerous overlooks in Haywood County, with approximately 46 miles winding through the area. Notable spots include Graveyard Fields Overlook and access points to Devil's Courthouse, which offers panoramic views extending into neighboring states. The Parkway reaches its highest point just above Haywood County at Richland Balsam Overlook.

Yes, the region around Haywood County's natural monuments offers mountain biking opportunities. While specific monuments might be hiking-only, nearby areas provide excellent trails. For example, you can explore routes like Farlow Gap and Daniel Ridge Loop. For a comprehensive list of trails, refer to the MTB Trails in Haywood County guide.

The Shining Rock Wilderness Area is a vast 26,400-acre protected region adjoining the Middle Prong Wilderness. It's characterized by two mountain river waterways, a modest lake, numerous waterfalls, and extensive hiking trails. Its name comes from the visible white quartzite at its 5,640-foot summit, Shining Rock Summit. It's a significant natural wonder for its biodiversity and pristine environment.

Yes, Haywood County serves as an entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, with its northeastern region extending into the county. The remote Cataloochee Valley, famous for its abundant wildflowers, diverse wildlife (including elk), and historic buildings from the early 1900s, is a key part of the park accessible from Haywood County.

While primarily natural, some sites have historical connections. At the Tennent Mountain summit, a marker honors Gaillard Stoney Tennent, recognized for establishing organized hiking in North Carolina. Additionally, the Cataloochee Valley within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park preserves historic buildings from the early 1900s, offering a glimpse into pioneer-era life amidst natural beauty.

For experienced adventurers seeking a challenge, the hike to Cold Mountain, located within the Shining Rock Wilderness Area, offers a rewarding and challenging experience. The area itself is known for its extensive and rugged trail system. Another challenging option is the Shut-In Trail, which can be found in the Running Trails in Haywood County guide.

For a quick visit or short walk, Black Balsam Knob is ideal for a short hike to its summit. The Graveyard Fields Overlook offers easy access to views and short trails from its parking area. Similarly, a short, steep path from the visitor center parking lot leads to the lookout point at Waterrock Knob Summit, providing magnificent views without a long trek.