Black Balsam Road, Blue Ridge Parkway

Smithsonian MagazineJul 10, 2025

From unexplained phenomena to baffling disappearances, follow the clues while discovering our country’s treasured protected areas

Trailhead for bald peaks

13 things in this story

Black Balsam RoadTrailTrailhead for bald peaks
Elsewhere
Cliff PalaceSightMesa Verde National Park, United StatesLargest cliff dwelling complex
Henry M. Jackson Memorial Visitor CenterSightMount Rainier National Park, United StatesPopular southern side visitor center
Westside RoadTrailMount Rainier National Park, United StatesAbandoned highway project; leads to Marine Memorial
Marine MemorialSightMount Rainier National Park, United StatesOffers views of Tahoma Glacier
Mount BaldySightIndiana Dunes National Park, United StatesSand dune where boy fell
Mesa Verde MuseumMuseumMesa Verde National Park, United StatesMuseum highlights park history
Long House LoopTrailMesa Verde National Park, United StatesWorthwhile excursion
Balcony HouseSightMesa Verde National Park, United States
Long HouseSightMesa Verde National Park, United States
Mug HouseSightMesa Verde National Park, United States
Mesa Top LoopTrailMesa Verde National Park, United States
Far View SitesSightMesa Verde National Park, United States

Black Balsam Road