Ivestor Gap Trail is one of many that leave from the Black Balsam Trailhead. Check the bulletin board for other high-elevation trails. Ivestor Gap Trail begins as a roadbed, which is open to 4-wheel-drive vehicles from mid-August until January 2nd. From Ivestor Gap, you may return to the parking area via the Art Loeb Trail for a beautiful, 5-mile loop. Enjoy the spectacular views from grass balds. From Ivestor Gap, the trail enters Shining Rock Wilderness and ends at Shining Rock Gap. Mountain bikes are not allowed in wilderness, and trails are maintained to the most primitive standards. Fires are prohibited. Group size of 10 is enforced in Shining Rock Wilderness to preserve solitude and prevent resource damage.

The trail begins at the Black Balsam Trailhead off of FS Road 816. This road leaves the Blue Ridge Parkway at milepost 420.

The trail surface is rocky and rough for the first 2 miles. However you'll be rewarded with some outstanding views in clear weather.