Pros & cons
PROS
- Multiple rock-hop creek crossings keep the loop playful
- Underrated and often less busy than nearby Parkway favorites
CONS
- Muddy and slick after rain; crossings can be tricky with high water
- Pasture fencing requires a step-over that can surprise first-timers
Park at Sims Pond Overlook (MP 295.9) on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Roadside lot by the pond; the loop begins at the footbridge. No restrooms or water at the overlook; nearest facilities are at Julian Price picnic area.
Expect multiple stream crossings and muddy tread, especially after rain. Uneven footing with roots and rocks; not stroller or wheelchair friendly. Look out for poison ivy along narrow sections in warm months, and respect pasture fencing/closures. Parkway access can be impacted by winter conditions.
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/).
Elevation
2.4 mi · 2 hrWhere it starts
36.1458, -81.7112Near Green Knob Trail
All places →All trails →
0 mi awaySims Creek TrailQuiet creek-and-rhododendron loop with a peek at GrandfatherModerate · 2.3 mi · 1.5 hr
0.5 mi awaySims Pond Loop TrailShort pond, creek, and meadow loop with a viaduct and one viewEasy · 2.3 mi · 2 hr
0.6 mi awayRich Mountain Carriage TrailWide, historic climb to Blue Ridge views from Trout LakeModerate · 5 mi · 2.3 hr
0.6 mi awayTrout Lake Loop TrailEasy lakeside loop through hemlocks with frequent wildlife sightingsEasy · 1.3 mi · 1.1 hr
0.7 mi awayTrout LakeShady 1.3-mile loop around a quiet, wildlife-rich mountain lakeTrailhead · Parking
1 mi awayMoses H. Cone Memorial ParkGrand manor, lakes, and 25 miles of carriage roads to wanderTrailhead · Restroom
1 mi awayJulian Price Park Picnic AreaShady creekside picnic grounds with trails and lake nearbyTrailhead · Restroom
1 mi awayHebron Colony FallsBoulder-choked cascades and summer swimming holes on Boone ForkTrailhead · Pullout
