Just a few miles past Bald Knob is the Mt. Shaw trail—a marked trail.
It follows the Melvin River to a spectacular view (looking north) from the very summit. There are waterfalls along the way, but no natural panoramic views unless taking the side trails, which are less-well marked.
The trail is eroded—gets rocky towards the summit—with few critters to be seen. It's likely you'll have the whole trail (and afternoon) to yourselves.
It's basically "a walk in the woods", as opposed to the book with the same name: