Green Knob Trail

Why hike this trail

If you like variety packed into a modest loop, Green Knob delivers. This is a 2.4-mile total loop with about 500 feet of gain—moderate, with a few steeper bits but nothing epic. It begins at Sims Pond Overlook and immediately charms with water, woods, and pastoral stretches, then climbs toward Green Knob before dropping back to the pond. Expect uneven tread, roots, rocks, and several stream crossings that keep things fun. It’s a classic Blue Ridge Parkway sampler that stays quieter than the headline hikes because there aren’t big, long-range vistas—just a lot of good, immersive forest-and-creek time. Sources: [seesugar.com](https://seesugar.com/green-knob-trail/), [virtualblueridge.com](https://www.virtualblueridge.com/parkway-place/green-knob-trail-2/).

Route, terrain, and feel

Start at Sims Pond Overlook (MP 295.9). Cross the little bridge, loop around the pond, and head into mixed hardwood forest threaded with rhododendron tunnels. You’ll pass under the Blue Ridge Parkway, crisscross Sims Creek on rock hops, and pop into meadow/pasture sections before working up toward Green Knob and looping back. Counter-clockwise makes the climb more gradual; clockwise frontloads the steeper stuff. Sources: [seesugar.com](https://seesugar.com/green-knob-trail/), [virtualblueridge.com](https://www.virtualblueridge.com/parkway-place/green-knob-trail-2/).

Scenery highlights

This loop is about close-up beauty: creeks gurgling under leafy canopies, rhododendron thickets, and open pastures with a different texture than the deep woods. For fall color, the Sims Creek Bridge area offers intimate, color-drenched views along the creek corridor—with sidewalks on both sides of the bridge for easy, safe viewing right from the overlook. Source: [blowingrock.com](https://blowingrock.com/mp-295-3-sims-creek-overlook-green-knob-trail/).

Best time to hike

• Fall is prime—early to mid-October typically brings peak color, especially along the creek. Weekends get busier, so go early or on weekdays. Source: [blowingrock.com](https://blowingrock.com/mp-295-3-sims-creek-overlook-green-knob-trail/); use patterns noted in sources above.
• Spring brings wildflowers and fresh greens; summer is pleasantly shaded and cooler under the canopy. Winter can be muddy or icy; closures can occur if Parkway conditions deteriorate. Source: [seesugar.com](https://seesugar.com/green-knob-trail/).

Tips, access, and regulations

• Parking: Sims Pond Overlook (MP 295.9). There are no restrooms or water here; the Julian Price picnic area is your nearest stop. Source: [seesugar.com](https://seesugar.com/green-knob-trail/).
• Footwear: Waterproof shoes are a smart move—the stream crossings and muddy sections make them earn their keep. Source: [seesugar.com](https://seesugar.com/green-knob-trail/).
• Navigation: Hike counter-clockwise for a more gradual ascent. Source: [seesugar.com](https://seesugar.com/green-knob-trail/).
• Approach roads: Stick to paved routes if possible; avoid rough unpaved options like Holloway Mountain Road in low-clearance vehicles. Source: [seesugar.com](https://seesugar.com/green-knob-trail/).
• Pets: Allowed on leash (max 6 feet) on Parkway trails. No day-use permits or entrance fees for hiking. Sources: [nps.gov](https://www.nps.gov/blri/planyourvisit/pets.htm), [nps.gov](https://www.nps.gov/blri/planyourvisit/fees.htm).

Who will love it and alternatives

This loop is great for families and casual hikers who want a moderate workout with a lot of texture—creeks, tunnels of rhododendron, and meadows—without chasing big views. Want more mileage? Link up with the adjacent Sims Creek Trail for a longer day; some hikers combine the two. Source: [virtualblueridge.com](https://www.virtualblueridge.com/parkway-place/green-knob-trail-2/).