When playing Monopoly, Boardwalk is considered the epitome of the real estate world. Well, here is your own personal Boardwalk, compliments of the National Forest Service! Sit smugly and enjoy; act like you own it! (Just don't charge your fellow cachers rent!)
A seeping spring creates a mushy area here, so a boardwalk is necessary to prevent hikers from bogging down in the mud. During wet weather, you can hear the pleasant tinkling of small rivulets coming down the bank. Sit quietly and enjoy!
During winter months, be sure to check whether the Blue Ridge Parkway is open. Call 828-298-0398; press 1, then 3. The Forest Service access road to Black Balsam Knob intersects the Parkway between Milepost 412 (U.S. 276, Wagon Road Gap) and Milepost 423 (NC 215, Beech Gap).