Tennent Mountain

It’s been nearly a decade when I last hiked the Blue Ridge Mountains. Walking out of the forest and up among grassy peaks at 6,000 ft I tucked away these mental photographs into the “will return someday” folder. I returned to Tennessee from northern Colorado last year and I’ve been craving a mountain fix within a days drive. The timing was right… a last minute change in weekend plans – paired with a son who has been asking for a solo camping trip with his dad. Like a weekly todo list, I had adventure destinations on queue. Top of the list was Black Balsam Knob. Black Balsam is among several peaks in the Great Balsam Mountains within the Blue Ridge Mountains. Others include Tennent, Sam’s Knob, Shining Rock, Richland Balsam and the famous Cold Mountain.

Since it was only an overnight trip we could pack light. The plan was to hike up Black Balsam via Art Loeb trail and head towards Tennent Mountain to find a good campsite. We found a good spot right off the trail which was tucked in thick foliage of wildflowers and sun bleached grasses. The place was literally humming with bees and butterflies as we pitched the tent. If you arrive late in the afternoon as we did, you will see less day hikers out near Tennent Mountain. Tip: As you hike look for subtle secondary paths. These usually lead you to campsites in clearings that you can’t see from the trail.

Here is a time-lapse of clouds passing through. Drum track by: https://www.permanentrecorddrums.com

After a great sunrise we gathered our supplies and headed back out via Ivestor Gap Trail. This trails was literally lined with wild blueberry and blackberry bushes. We walked by a couple springs pouring water and found a few clearings that are perfect for group style camping. Once back at the car, we toasted our cold brew and hit the parkway.

It’s already been a couple days but like most mountain trips the mental photographs are carrying me through the week. Super stoked. The clouds we touched. The mist soaking our tent. The mountain laurel, cone flower, and sourwood.