Beginning at Daniel Boone Camp Ground, at 4 miles in, there is a spur trail that leads to the summit of Cold Mountain, the first peak along the Shining Rock Ridge. The Black Balsam region of the trail is known for its bald summits and wide panoramic views. Two-thirds of the way through the hike, the trail skirts the base of Cedar Rock Mountain--a highlight due to a large bald rock face frequented by climbers.

The majority of the trail is marked with white blazes or written trail markers. Within the boundaries of the Shining Rock Wilderness, trail blazes are minimal. Familiarize yourself with the major intersections to ensure you stay on the trail. Several adjacent trails lead to other popular landmarks, but could spur several miles off route if not careful. After passing a paved road that leads to the Black Balsam/Sam's Knob parking area, the Art Loeb merges with the Mountains to Sea Trail (MST) for a short stretch. The trail is denoted with a white blaze and white dot for this stretch. Near the top of Silvermine Bald, the Art Loeb takes a sharp left and descends towards the Blue Ridge Parkway, where it crosses and continues towards Farlow Gap. From here, the remainder of the trail is marked very well as it continues through multiple gaps and several smaller mountains.