Is there any trail access closer to the top than the one at the app trail parking lot on the highway?

No. You gotta earn that view.

The old fire road is easier than the hike itself. Cuts about 30 min off there and 30 min back. Still a pretty solid hike nevertheless

Thats only way to start the hike and the only parking area.when you return you can make it a little easier by turning right on the old fire road that's approximately 1.4 miles from the knob. Take the fire road for just over 2.6 miles until you reach Route 311.

I don't think so.

Not to my knowledge