The Green Knob Trail is a moderate 2.4 mile loop hike with an
elevation gain of nearly 500 feet. The trail is diverse in scenery, from
being near a pond, to following a creek, walking through towering trees and to
walking through meadows on hilltops with panoramic views.
Don't confuse this with the other Green Knob with a fire tower
located at milepost 350. Starting at Sim's Pond Parking Area at milepost 295.9
of the Parkway, cross the Sims Pond spillway bridge and follow the well
worn trail around the pond. The trail follows Sim's Creek through a
section of dense rhododendron shaded by old growth timber. A welcomed bench is at 0.4 miles.
You'll pass under the Parkway at 0.6 mile and on the right
there is a side trail that ascends to the Sims Creek Overlook above. A
steady climb through pasture, meadow and woods leads to the top of 3920 foot
Green Knob, with panoramic views from the open meadows. The last section
descends a steep hill with a view of Calloway Peak on the horizon.
The views are pretty nice. Many travelers pass on this
scenic loop hike. Be sure to make the stop and enjoy this wonderful hike
with panoramic views from open meadows. This hike is featured in the
hiking guide book Hiking the Blue Ridge Parkway.
