Ivestor Gap #101

Dogs Leashed

Features Fall Colors · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

The parking lot gets full, so get there early and make sure to go all the way to the official parking lot area with a small gravel extension. There are several spots about a half mile before on the side of Black Balsam for the Art Loeb trailhead, so make sure to go all the way to the normal parking lot to get to Ivestor Gap trailhead. This trailhead is at the end of the gravel parking lot extension.

A great alternative to its big brother Art Loeb, this trail is lower in elevation with a more consistent grade, and there are a few great viewpoints at Ivestor Gap. Carry the trail on to Shining Rock for a very cool mid-point. Be sure to not miss going to the actual Shining Rock. It is super cool!

Although this is technically a point-to-point trail, you can make an easy loop hike using the Art Loeb Trail. I prefer the Art Loeb out to Ivestor Gap or Shining Rock with Ivestor Gap Trail back. This takes the harder elevation gains early in the hike. It is a little muddy in spots so wear appropriate shoes.