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- Waterrock Knob
6,291 ft · Plott Balsams, North Carolina
Waterrock Knob
Waterrock Knob is a 6,291 ft peak in the Plott Balsams, North Carolina. The standard route is the Waterrock Knob Trail: 1 mi, 460 ft of gain, Class 1.
Waterrock Knob at a glance
- Elevation6,291 ft1,917 m
- RouteWaterrock Knob TrailClass 1
- Distance1 mi460 ft gain
- Time1 – 3 hrsEasy effort
- SeasonApr – Nov
- RangePlott BalsamsNorth Carolina
Climbing the Waterrock Knob Trail
From Waynesville, take US 23/74 to Balsam Gap and drive the Blue Ridge Parkway south to milepost 451.2, then follow the spur road up to the Waterrock Knob Visitor Center. The Class 1 Waterrock Knob Trail starts paved, then turns into a steep, rocky dirt path to the wooded summit and its partial views. Fog, wind and sudden temperature drops are common, and the Parkway here often closes for ice in winter. At about 1.2 miles round trip this hike is too short for SB6K credit; most hikers count it on the 8 mile out-and-back to Lyn Lowry and Plott Balsam.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (25–35 L)
Hiking Boots
Water
Offline Maps
Headlamp
Satellite Communicator
Whistle
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Sun Hat
Midlayer
Insulated Jacket
Hardshell Jacket
Warm Hat
Buff
Midweight Gloves
Trekking Poles
GPS Device
Power Bank
Water Filter
First-Aid Kit
Emergency Bivy
What to watch for
- Low visibility
- High winds
- Rapid weather shifts
- Slippery terrain
Quests with Waterrock Knob
South Beyond 6,000Peaks near Waterrock Knob
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Waterrock Knob?
Waterrock Knob is 6,291 feet (1,917 m) tall. It is in the Plott Balsams, North Carolina.
How does Waterrock Knob rank among the South Beyond 6,000?
At 6,291 feet, Waterrock Knob is the 15th highest of the 40 peaks of the South Beyond 6,000. The highest is Mount Mitchell.
How hard is it to hike Waterrock Knob?
The Waterrock Knob Trail is Class 1, which means hiking on a trail. Yak rates the overall effort easy: 1 mile with 460 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Waterrock Knob?
Most people take 1 – 3 hours round trip on the Waterrock Knob Trail, covering 1 mile with 460 feet of elevation gain.
Can a beginner hike Waterrock Knob?
Usually, if you are fit. The Waterrock Knob Trail is a common first summit for hikers ready for 1 – 3 hours on their feet. Bring layers, food and water, and check the weather before you start.
When is the best time to hike Waterrock Knob?
The usual hiking window is April to November. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.
Climb Waterrock Knob with Yak
Plan your route on a topo map, check the summit forecast, then log your climb and see what is left on your list