Green Knob Trail

This 2.3-mile trail is one of the best short hikes in the area. Start from the Sim's Pond overlook, with the recommended direction counter-clockwise. For the first mile or so, the trail winds around Sim's Pond and continues under the massive parkway bridge through rhododendron tunnels, several creek crossings and small waterfalls. The trail then follows the creek bed up the valley through dense foliage with lots of roots, rocks, and a few steep sections.Around the 1.2 mile mark, the trail opens into a magnificent pasture as it winds to the top of Green Knob. The Pasture is stunning, but long range views are limited due to the surrounding trees. From here, the trail returns to the forest and descends back down to Sim's Pond with a great view of Grandfather Mountain. This stretch contains an extremely steep section that can be treacherous when wet.