stars
Beautiful views with the classic Smokies ridge walk. There are some places where the trail is a little tougher to navigate due to rocks, and thin trail along the ridge.
★
★
★
Backpacking to Kephart Shelter for the night. Started at Newfound Gap hiked up AT 1.7 miles. Took Sweat Heifer Trail to Kephart Shelter. Stayed over night then hiked out Kephart Prong Trail
★
★
★
★
A beautiful hike, but strenuous with steep uphill, the first 6 miles and steeper downhill with rocky Bull Head Trail downhill. Wonderful views at exposed areas at previous fire.. Overall worth it.
★
★
★
★
Alum may be one of the busiest trails in the Smokies but it’s because it’s also one of the prettiest. I really need to hike this more often.
★
★
★
★
★
Key swap Bill E., Bill M., Robert Twilley
From Baskins- Ellie D., Gwen Baker, Laura Wehrle, Brent, Denise, me. LR gauge 1.4. All water crossings easy hops.
★
★
★
★
★
The trail is very wide, and although there were a lot of hikers, we had moments of peaceful hiking.
There was a black bear, trying to get into a car when we made it back to the trailhead.
★
★
★
Girls hiked to see Fraser firs Paul and I helped plant with the group from Miss. State
★
stars
We did this trail in June as part of climb to Leconte and descent on Alum Cave with a shuttle. The trail itself was fairly well-graded and in good condition. There were many blowdowns and overgrown vegetation that need attention.
★
★
★
This is a beautiful hike with lots of tree coverage. It follows the Little River for several miles. Trail is in great condition. Very graduale climb. Camped at site 24. There was a lot of water in the area the end of May. Fireflies were amazing!
★
★
★
★
★
stars
A surprisingly nice hike. I expected a boring trail that went from point to point. Nice water and woods scenery with views of the Smoky Mountains ridge line from the picnic area. I think all the hardwoods along the trail would make for a great fall foliage hike.
★
★
★
★
Definitely a steep climb on Chasteen but great route overall.
★
★
★
★
★
This section has great views of the lake at times. Definitely can see it being overgrown in the summer.
★
★
★
★
Beautiful trail! Definitely has some creek crossings. At one point the creek and trail are the same
★
★
★
★
Absolutely not easy. A lot of it is in what feels like a drainage ditch. The plants are so different than the ones you see on the AT not even a mile away.
★
★
★
★
gorgeous- definitely strenuous as it’s insane uphill one way but then it’s downhill on the way back. amazing views at the top of full cades cove
★
★
★
★
★
Great out and back. Trail is 80 percent runnable, just a little technical in places. Great view at the bunion.
★
★
★
★
★
Great run that resulted in walking a lot due to rocks covered by leaves. Stopped short of the AT at Russell Field. Would be a great run if leaf clutter was not so heavy.
★
★
★
★
Did not go the full hike. I turned off towards Indian Flats Falls. The trail to the falls gets a bit treacherous as you approach the falls. Lots of narrow rock ledges as you approach. View of the falls was nice. Surrounding area is slippery, so keep the kids close
★
★
★
★
Awesome hike and we had perfect weather! If you spend much time at the top best to start early or take headlamps, we felt a bit rushed trying to see and enjoy everything and get back by sunset which is around 7 in mid October.
★
★
★
★
★
Solid hike with diverse payoffs all along the trail: great views of river from up on high, awesome log bridges, beautiful trees and moss-covered boulders, well-maintained with great steps on steep sections. Budget 5 hours car to car at a good clip. Bring plenty of water and snacks.
★
★
★
★
★
The fire tower view are like nothing before, sterlings fire tower skyscrapes above the mountain to give you a one of a kind view. Book campsites early they fill up fast!
★
★
★
★
★
Did this hike after going to Clingmans Dome. The first .5-.6 miles was all downhill and comprised of primitive wood framed and stone stairs. Enjoyed the views from Andrew’s Bald. I would classify this hike as a short Moderate
★
★
★
★
This is a short hike on a completely paved path. Goes about .5 miles one way, but it is a steady uphill hike to the dome. Didn’t get to see much due to the fog, but that is the risk of doing this in the morning
★
★
★
Nice hike with a beautiful view of the falls. We stopped at the falls, then returned to the trailhead
★
★
★
★
Trail is paved from the parking lot. This is a tough uphill hike. Elevation gain is 330 feet in .5 miles. Foggy, so much that we couldn’t see anything in the morning
★
★
★
Did this hike after going up to Clingmans Dome. Trail starts downhill with lots of wood framed primitive stairs. Downhill continued for .5 - .7 of a mile, during which the wood framed stairs turned into stone based stairs.
Andrew’s Bald was a nice viewing point where you can see numerous mountains from
★
★
★
Easy hike. Lots of in incredible cascades. Plenty of spots to sit and sun on rocks after playing in the cold water.
★
★
★
★
Nice hike with a few fun creek crossings. Elevation gain is not bad and you’re rewarded with a beautiful waterfall.
★
★
★
★
Water crossings are crayzee! Little River USGS station was at 2.1 today. First crossing on Rabbit was not bad, knee high. Second on Hannah was wider and deeper, hip high in a couple of areas. Two Bills, Sam, Rod, Jenny, Connie/John Tatgenhorst, Steve Day.
★
★
★
★
★
Finishing by walking the road is one of my least favorite things. Otherwise good hike.
★
★
★
Not a bad hike but weather was drizzle then ice then rain. Water crossings at bottom of Long Hungry were fine with water shoes. MH hike with Ray, Sheila, Neil, Mark, young guy Keith? and others.
★
★
★
Tough hike, ice on rocky Snake Den, water crossings not hoppable, fell in slightly on one, Gabe’s water crossings and trail was tedious.
★
★
OAB to finish Meigs Mtn. River gauge was at 2.53. Blanket Creek was barely rock hoppable.
★
★
★
★
★
SNOW! 4-6 inches from Liw Gap to Cammerer, 8-12 down Lower Mt Cammerer. No one on trail, fresh steps down Lower. A little challenging slog down but beautiful.
★
★
★
★
★
Awful. West prong nice as ever but walking Laurel road was a nightmare. Paul, Donna, Sue F , Janet A.
★
Solo hike in the snow. LOVE Meigs Mtn trail, it would be gorgeous in the spring. Fresh snow, first hiker. Amazing. Little River gauge at 2.82 ft.
★
★
★
★
★
Beautiful hoar frost at top. Sue F, Jean, Paul, Donna and Janet A. stayed behind.
★
★
★
★
Key swap-Sheila, Ray, Jean, Eric, Bob, Neil
Excellent hike, steam engine in creek was cool, meeting Theresa and Garan Moore, first autistic boy to hike all the trails was awe inspiring “Love, Trails and Dinosaurs” on utube.
★
★
★
★
Great hike. The lodge is so interesting. I wish I knew, most likely would be more prepared to spent a night in this place.
★
★
★
★
★
Best hike so far in the smoky mountains. Beat sitting in line at Cades Cove.
★
★
★
★
★
Gradual increase in elevation. Not many hikers so lots of quiet time. Good views at top.
★
★
★
★
Always busy but one of the most scenic/stereotypical AT hikes in the Smokies. Water pipe at Icewater springs is 10/10.
★
★
★
★
★
The Boulevard is one of the most magical hikes in the Smokies. You won’t get hot if you have the right clothing on, any time of year. I recommend doing a loop hike so that you don’t have to return on the boulevard, which would require you to climb Kephart again. No water along the trail until you get to LeConte so make sure you fill up at Icewater Springs. The trail is very gentle/moderate for most people until you reach the last mile below Myrtle Point.
★
★
★
★
★
TONS of burnt trees still standing so be wary of widowmakers and downed trees. Saw 6 bears. Plenty of water sources along the bullhead which seem to be steady flowing during dry seasons. This would be a very tough ascent but it quickly became my favorite descent from LeConte. Absolutely gorgeous in spring. I recommend going up rainbow falls and down the bullhead. You won’t find better intimate views of Gatlinburg and the Sugarlands valley.
★
★
★
★
★
This was a very nice hike. Not super steep. I wouldn’t call this easy or beginner due to the elevation but the trails was wide and easy to walk on. Absolutely beautiful. Parking is not easy there are not many spots so go early
★
★
★
★
★
The trail is easy because it’s asphalt all the way up. There were lots and lots of people on the trail. Including people pulling wagons or pushing strollers. Get there early if you want to find a place to park.
★
★
★
★
★
The hike ascended long enough for a 52 year old to get roughed up then it leveled out, it continued to ascend then descend enough to make it feel like I conquered without so much physical pain. Views were amazing since it was between two ridges so 300 degree views.
★
★
★
★
A beautiful trail in the Smoky’s. Empty trails in early March led to a steady incline and with a fast down hill. Trees were alive, brooks glided by, and the mountains looked large in the distance.
★
★
★
★
★
Beautiful hike to campsite 30. Went OAB on Rough Creek on the way back. Recommend doing Rough Creek in winter or early spring. Brambles are going to be a problem during summer/fall. Water crossings on Rough were rock hoppable. A few blowdowns but all easy to go over or under.
★
★
★
★
★
Fabulously beautiful, one of my fav hikes. Key swap with Sue F., Donna, Sayoko, Bob, Mark V. two others?
★
★
★
★
★
Very surprisingly challenge climb in the rain. May not have been as bad on a drier day. I do prefer this route to Gregory Ridge as it’s a bit more gradual and less rocky. One of the most remote/quiet areas I have been to in the Smokies and definitely will be revisiting this route. Dalton Branch is now one of my top favorite campsites in the entire Appalachians, but still behind Sheep pen gap.
★
★
★
★
Fabulous area to hike. Lots of “old settlers” homesteads.
★
★
★
★
★
Our first time in the Smoky Mountains. This was an out and back trail basically all up on the way out and then back down. My wife and I enjoyed it a great deal. The leaves were just beginning to turn and the weather was amazing. I would say it was easy to moderate. There are a few spots that have a pretty steep incline but nothing too crazy. A lot of very pretty flowing streams and some great views off the Smokies.
★
★
★
★
I just really enjoyed this hike. It was not very long but I thought the different species of trees and plants were great. The views were nice at Andrews Bald, which I would describe as a small grassy flat. On the way back I took an additional 1 mile trek up to the Appalachian Trail. I’ve never been to the Appalachian and it was very cool, literally on the top of the mountain sloping down on both sides. Loved it! Just be aware that this is the most visited national park in America so to say it is busy is an understatement. We went early and it was still busy but you should have seen the crowds as we left!!! Still well worth it but plan accordingly.
★
★
★
★
★
Simply a beautiful route away from the more traveled paths. Good exercise with a 1600’ elevation gain.
★
★
★
★
★
stars
Views at the bald in October at peak fall colors were fantastic! Despite the crowds, this is a lovely hike. Start early before the traffic gets too bad. I was barely able to get out due to the mile-long line of cars waiting to enter, in the early afternoon as I was leaving.
★
★
★
★
★
Beautiful and strenuous! Fall colors were gorgeous. The view from the top is worth the effort. It’s a very popular trail for good reason. Unfortunately, this means parking can be a problem. Like virtually every popular hike in GSMNP, the advice is go early. You should have no problem parking if you get there by 8:00 or 8:30.
★
★
★
★
★
It was a nice hike but crowded. The farther you hiked the less crowded it became though. Clearly marked trail.
★
★
★
★
Fairly short and sweet, a little elevation change to get the heart going and a nicely maintained trail. If you have several people with cars, it could be a point to point hike but it’s a nice OAB, as well.
★
★
★
★
★
It was a foggy and drizzly hike to begin and became quite windy at mile 3. However when we go to the bunion there was some clear sky and we enjoyed a great fall view. Even on a weekday this was an extremely popular hike. It’s leaf pepping season.
★
★
★
★
★
4.5 star. 3 hikes: easy to the arch, which was worth seeing - even for the least physically active, medium hike to the bluff/overlook before the cave - worthwhile views for the average hiker, and a short hammy/glute burner to the “cave” from there - great views and worth the sweat for the average hiker. Note: 3rd day of 30k+ steps & elevation made this feel even more worthwhile.
★
★
★
★
4.5 stars. Great hike with a gradual incline the whole way up. Stream on your side in the beginning and two minor falls on the way to rainbow falls which, while fairly dry of late, wasn’t the most voluminous falls in the park but beautiful none the less. Some rocks and tree roots along the way but overall a great hike - even with the gnats in the lower middle section. Perfect hike to finish smoking my bags after three previous days hiking
★
★
★
★
Went during TN’s fall school break so the very flat trail’s only redeeming features were the pit stop in front of the park’s entrance sign & only dog friendly trail in TN. The stream alongside the trail was nice and there was a photo op on the bridge near the city. A very easy hike that several accomplished with strollers.
★
★
★
I have hiked all the trails at the Smokies and while this would be a moderate trail for a frequent Hiker, it should be rated difficult for the casual visitor. I have seen people carrying purses, in slick tennis shoes, and in heavy coats inappropriate for the weather. These unprepared people generally turn back after the 1st mile. There is reasonably steep elevation gain over slick rocks in several places. Trail is currently closed due to flooding in the area summer 2022.
★
★
★
★
★
Nice easy trail out and back. Doesn’t require a lot of gear. Path is very well maintained and good for all ages. Waterfall has several areas to wade or rest in the water. This year has been dry so not as impressive as usual. You are able to walk behind the falls for pictures.
★
★
★
★
★
The trail was wide and a slight incline all the way up, perfect for those who may not want the hike narrow trails. The waterfall was worth it, bring swimming trunks because there is a location to get wet or lounge.
Total 4mile hike
★
★
★
★
Lots of people. Crazy trying to park the first time we tried to go but went after 3pm and there was less people.
★
★
★
★
Excellent area for spring wildflowers, especially the lesser-seen varieties like pink and yellow lady’s slippers.
★
★
★
★
★
This was a beautiful mildly challenge hike with three water falls. Beautiful.
★
★
★
★
★
The first mile is pretty easy, but it gets steep after that. There's a bit of rock scrambling but nothing too difficult, and the view at the falls is worth it.
★
★
★
★
★
Ken hit his head on a rock, Cindy was attacked by yellow jackets and it was a brutally long day. 3L of water wasn't enough, should pack my after bite meds in quick reach area of pack.
Overall - incredible adventure, quintessential smokies experience.
★
★
★
★
★
A nice easy hike with some very engaging streams. The summit was very underwhelming.
The oath was was kept and not too footy or overly rocky
★
★
★
★
First time on trail and loved every bit of it. Saw several waterfalls and the old rusted car, a homestead and broken dishes from the homestead. Beautiful trail
★
★
★
★
★
Stopped tracking for some reason. Great trail up Rainbow down Trillium
★
★
★
★
★
Tough hike coming down for me from the roots and rocks. Loved the trail though!
★
★
★
★
★
Warmer than expected. Friendly people along the way. Cute squirrels.
★
★
★
★
★
Great hike, lots of climbing over rocks and boulders. Great view once your at the falls. Not sure i'd agree with a moderate difficulty, and if this is a true moderate difficulty hike, I'd hate to see a difficult one.
★
★
★
★
★
stars
A solid hike in the Cades Cove section of the park. I prefer to get all the climbing over with early on, so I chose climb Anthony Creek and Bote to the AT. It’s about 3,000 ft in elevation change, but after you reach the AT, it’s smooth sailing. The views from Spence are beautiful, and this section of the AT is probably one of my favorite in the park. Russell Field is Rocky, and root-filled. But still a decent decent with some spring flowers popping up.
★
★
★
★
★
Beautiful views and very quiet on this gorgeous January day. Trail is a little soft with all the frost melt and recent snows; a lot of downed trees on the downhill side. Fairly gentle climbs and descents and some good rhododendron/laurel tunnels.
★
★
★
★
This was a good short hike with little elevation change. Runs along an Awesome creek with a big water fall called mouse creek falls.
★
★
★
★
★
This was a pretty hard and long hike. It was 7 miles one way. It took us 9 hours and 27 minutes and 13.66 miles out and back. The hike was pretty with a few lookout points. The main lookout was a really small area on only one side of the mountain. The bushes pretty much blocks the rest. For us the reward was not worth the really long and hard trek to get there. Overall glad we did this hike but will not do it again.
★
★
★
★
★
Wow! the gnats and mosquitoes were ridiculous 6/19/21 made the last 4 miles seem like a gauntlet or a scene out of a Alford Hitchcock movie
★
★
★
Wow! the gnats and mosquitoes were ridiculous 6/19/21 made the last 4 miles seem like a gauntlet or a scene out of a Alford Hitchcock movie
★
★
★
Nice easy hike. Quiet walk in the woods. At intersection take West Prong Trail to Campsite 18. Beautiful campsite along the creek.
★
★
★
★
Saturday trip to Clingman;s Dome. Parking was scarce as usual on a Saturday. Weather was bright and sunny. Trail was about 90 percent dry, several areas of wet and ice. Andrews Bald was absolutely gorgeous on this sunny day. The trip is only about 3.5 miles R/T but should be considered difficult considering the rocks and elevation gain coming back up. Well worth the time and effort.
★
★
★
★
★
What a perfect hike! It has everything one could desire in a challenging yet beautiful hike: great changing scenery and vegetation variety as you climb up, beautiful views all along the route, gorgeous peak, capped with this amazing tower you could actually climb (i did get lightheaded at one point climbing that tower), amazing views from the tower and a gorgeous way down in a loop, never same scenery, creaks and river and Waterfall AND swimming hole!
Great workout! but also nice to have last 3-4 miles be a very gentle slope and an easy decent along the mountain river.
Can’t wait to do this one again in the future - perfect!!
★
★
★
★
★
First time on trail and loved every bit of it. Saw several waterfalls and the old rusted car, a homestead and broken dishes from the homestead. Beautiful trail
★
★
★
★
★
No super great view going up or down. Terrain can be footy and annoying. Not recommended for anything other than some solitude.
★
★
★
Great hike, but fairly difficult towards the last mile. I did the hike with my two year old daughter on my back which is what made it more difficult than if you went “slick”
★
★
★
★
★
This bald has the best view of any spot in the Smokies!!! I hiked this with the added bonus of seeing the flame azaleas in bloom! 5 star hike!!
★
★
★
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★
stars
Did this loop early July, starting from Cataloochee which adds 3.2 miles. The Smokies were beautiful, as always. These trails all allow horses, and some of them are heavily used by horses. That makes them extremely rocky and eroded. There are also no distance views on this loop, at least in the summer. It may be a worthwhile side trip to go to Mt Sterling to see the views.
★
★
★
Lots of mud. Wide trail with lots of people but respectful. The falls were nice and waking under felt like we were in Mexico but when the temps were in the 50s. Ice all over the area too. Nice formations.
★
★
★
★
Great easy trail all paved. We pushed a stroller and a wheel chair with a little extra effort and worked out good
★
★
★
★
★
Nice walk through the beautiful scenery of GSM Park with three nice waterfalls.
★
★
★
★
★
Easy hike. Easy to get to. Beautiful area right along the river. Looking forward to hiking here again.
★
★
★
★
★
This is a great hike, especially when the wildflowers are blooming. Gradual uphill to Walnut Bottoms and downhill back.
★
★
★
★
★
Great easy hike. Get there early the crowds start around lunch this time of year. Also - reminder there is wildlife in the area. Could be anything from a bunny, bear or snake. Pack out what you pack in please.
★
★
★
★
★
Rich Mountain Trail is a pretty steady climb for 2.3 miles, and oddly enough the damp creek-crossing part is at the top of the climb not the bottom. Indian Grave Gap is a pleasant downhill on an old roadbed. The walk up Rich Mountain Road back to the car (3.6 miles or so) is a bit tedious, but there are some good views into Cades Cove, and it’s mostly level or downhill.
★
★
★
★
★
This hike is not as easy as reviews describe! Very beautiful waterfall, worth the tough hike!
★
★
★
★
2/8/21 hiked by myself. Passed 15 people on a Monday. No one lunching at falls. Plenty of lunching space. 50 minutes to falls. Beautiful falls. Very peaceful. Hike is up and down the whole way. Camp toilet at parking area. 12-15 other cars there. I arrived a little before noon.
★
★
★
★
Great road thru the mountains with twisties, switchbacks, and two track lanes to explore. Cataloochie settlement had elk and other wildlife.
★
★
★
★
Hell of a hike with my good friend Jon. Climb was tough but the views made everything worth it. For some reason, I had a pretty intense headache the entire time but that did not put a damper on the great hike
★
★
★
★
★
What a wonderful surprise! We showed up at the park and the gate was closed, so we decided to hike this trail because it was there. This time of year the views are incredible and we found the views at Taylor’s Turnaround especially inviting for a quick snack. We hiked down to the McKee Branch Trail crossing for a little extra workout and to enjoy the forest with patches of beautiful white snow scattered about. This was a wonderful hike that I would enjoy visiting again, and the elevation changes are less than many trails in the Smoky Mountains as you are walking on a ridge with large views in the winter!
★
★
★
★
★
Great quiet walkway along 441. Easy to walk further along the creek. Old rock wall as well. Will be returning in Spring.
★
★
★
★
★
One of my favorites! Definitely not easy. I’ve hiked it several times from the Newfound Gap parking lot and it is always 11-12 miles round trip. Come prepared. Lots of different terrain, beautiful. Recommend hiking especially in the fall 😍😍
★
★
★
★
★
It was beautiful weather and the snow/ice made it a bit more challenging, which was great. We went up to Charlie’s Bunion and it was one of the most remarkable views of the mountains.
★
★
★
★
Not sure why you would rate this a difficult hike. This is moderate at best even if you include Cucumber Gap as a loop.
★
★
★
★
★
Excellent hike but don’t be fooled by reviews saying this is an easy trek. I’ve seen some say moderate and some say strenuous. I’d land this somewhere between there based on the elevation changes over the short distance. Take breaks and enjoy the views. Be sure to have spikes in the winter as some areas can be quite icy.
★
★
★
★
★
This was an excellent and challenging hike! Lots of time next to the creek and plenary of small water falls and holes to fish. The last mile or so is steep and has some rock climbing to do. My 10 and 12 year olds did it just fine. The falls at the top is well worth the hike! Great place for a picnic lunch!
★
★
★
★
★
Easy hike and beautiful scenery. The vandalism on the Greenbrier School is depressing
★
★
★
★
★
This trail leads to another hidden gem in the Smoky Mountains. The House of the Fairies is built into the side of the mountain and has stood the tests of time.
★
★
★
★
★
This trail leads to another hidden gem in the Smoky Mountains. The House of the Fairies is built into the side of the mountain and has stood the tests of time.
★
★
★
★
★
We started the loop from Jakes Creek Trailhead and came across Cucumber Gap Trail to Little River. There are plenty of ruins to explore on the way in but it is much more of a grade from this direction. The falls are amazing and a great place for lunch.
★
★
★
★
★
This is a very beautiful and special place. Best ever Riverside trail.
Awesome Black Cherry and Sycamore trees.
Fantastic swimming holes. A bit cold for that in December.
Ken
★
★
★
★
★
The Road to Nowhere is a really cool hike with some amazing scenery. Just a quick little jaunt.
★
★
★
★
★
Wet and rainy start from Clingmans Dome at approx. 8am The trail was wet of course with very little backpackers on this day, but by 10am I saw a total of 7 others headed out to Fontana Dam. Silers Bald Shelter is a great stop with water just to the right and down the hill about a 100 yards.
★
★
★
★
Beautiful trail that skirts along the river to the Visitors center. Easy hike
★
★
★
★
★
Beautiful trail that skirts along the river to the Visitors center. Easy hike
★
★
★
★
★
Nice hike, Indian Creek Trail has some good elevation and. The waterfalls and creek views are what made this hike worth it. No real outlook views of surrounding mountain range. Reminds me a lot of some Ohio Trails.
★
★
★
★
A little chilly on the way up but very nice and plenty of sun once at the lodge.
★
★
★
★
★
Super easy asphalt all the way to the top.. some good grade! Worth the views on a CAVU day! Loved this.. clear nights and days make for an awesome trip
★
★
★
Coming up at night is special.. no one else in the dome. Clear as a bell this evening.. so many stars
★
★
★
This was a beautiful hike. Not the most difficult of hikes although the section between 3500-4000 ft elevation on Rough Creek was very difficult due to the undergrowth in the forest fire area. Lots of water opportunities but not after the last water crossing on Rough Creek. Lots of recent evidence (fresh poo and paw prints) of bear activity but I didn’t see one.
★
★
★
★
★
Started out at 7am and walked paved rd up Clingmans Dome .5 to AT. Was cloudy and foggy so no great views. Gishen prong is rocky and narrow nit fun trail. Little River easy rd trail
★
★
★
A lot of interesting history along this easy hike. The road is well maintained and no steep hills to climb. There are old homesites and a n old cemetery to be found as well as backcountry campsites.
★
★
★
★
Old Sugarland trail is a beautiful stroll through the woods. Especially the first 2 miles. After that, the views were not there. As for the Twin Creek and Gatlinburg trails they were crowded and loud due to traffic. Not a fan of either of those trails. No bears today.
★
★
★
Very rainy hike with no view all day. The hike itself was great and I would love to do it again when the weather cooperates. The Friday of Labor Day weekend is NOT the time to do it. There were people everywhere even with the rain.
★
★
★
★
Jump off overlook is very scenic and a little off the beaten path. Would highly recommend.
★
★
★
★
★
Single person width trail that is used frequently by elk as evidenced by their hoof prints and droppings. Lovely fungi and ferns under a pretty shaded canopy. Only one spot with views but a lovely gradual downhill trail.
★
★
★
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stars
Went on an overcast Friday morning with light rain. Perfect hiking weather! I took the counterclockwise route (Low Gap) by mistake, but was really happy I did. The climb is steep and a tough workout, but it gets you to the lookout FAST. As others have said, by going this way, going down the Lower Cammerer feels pretty boring, but the more gradual grade is more forgiving on the knees than the Low Gap would be, for sure...which is important to us old guys. :)
The trail as of August 21, 2020 needs some maintenance, without a doubt. I was left wondering if COVID has set the crews back, because there were several downed trees across the trail, and a couple of them were genuinely precarious to get over or around. On the Lower Cammerer, there were many places where the brush has become unruly and has even grown over the trail. It made me hyper aware of my steps, as I was concerned about timber rattlesnakes which live in the area. There was also numerous deep muddy spots that I just had to slog through.
All in all, it was a great day out on the mountain. I only saw 5 other people the whole day...and one bear! And as everyone else has said, the view from the summit is breathtaking. The best I've personally experienced in the Smokies. Worth every step.
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One heck of a Rocky Rooty 2100 Feet UP Rough ass Hike well worth the Reward of Ramsey Cascades
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This is NOT difficult! It' an easy and pleasant hike - it takes you past two landmarks in the Park, the Little Greenbrier School and the Walker Sisters Cabin, and then along the ridge of Little Mountain. The trails are well maintained, the few streams all have footbridges, there are some views into and out of the Park (probably more in fall or winter) along Little Greenbrier Trail, the elevation gain and loss is barely noticeable. The hardest part by far is the road walk at the end back to Metcalf Bottoms -- but even here the road is not heavily traveled so walking on the shoulder is fairly safe.
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Tough hike but rewarding and fun. If recently rained, trail will become muddy and many obstacles on stone maybe extra arduous.
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This is a beautiful and challenging hike! It is also very popular, especially with people just going as far as Rainbow Falls, so arrive early and prepare to spend time looking for parking.
On this particular day, the weather defied predictions, and it was very rainy, foggy, and windy. The falls were still beautiful, but I'll have to repeat this loop on a day to enjoy the views.
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This is an OK way to visit Gregory Bald AOB without the hours of Cades Cove traffic. Parking is somewhat limited to about a dozen or so vehicles. No views along the way except horse manure and hoofed-up numerous mud seeps, but also no Cades Coves visitors . The highlight was all the scenic bridged stream crossings in the first mile or two. Slope was steady and manageable with weighted backpack. This is a good 3,600 ft training climb to build up to the 4,000-5,000 footers elsewhere in the park as climbing prep. Although I am still not sure why this Bald is popular (except for azaleas bloom time). Often socked in with fog and minimal views due to high bushes around most of the perimeter. Bring a sit-upon or pad for eating or resting in the grass.
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There was fog at the summit but still a beautiful and challenging peak.
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The hike from Newfound Gap to Charlie’s Bunion via the AT is hard, but worthwhile. The first 2.7 miles is a steady climb, with lots of rocks and roots. But the views are stunning, and the trail itself is beautiful. Highly recommend.
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Definitely not an easy hike. I’d say moderate to hard, especially during the first 2.8 on the AT. It’s a climb! The Jump Off is a nice addition.
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From Oliver's Cabin up the trail is quite steep of mostly loose rock. There are a fair number of creek crossings. Large amount wildflower blooms including orchids above the 2800ft area. Numerous fallen trees on the trail as we were there the first weekend the park was opened from the Crovid 19 shutdown. May 2020. Great less traveled trail in Cades Cove.
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This is a route on 2 land hard top asphalt roads. It is not a hike.
★
Way more wildflowers than we expected at this time of year. A beautiful walk in the light rain
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Loved the hike but those steps were a killer. Straight up all the way but so worth it
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Parked at dome for a down and back up hike with the wife and our 10 month old along for the ride in a baby-carrier. Chilly at the high elevation, warmed up as we descended. Absolutely spectacular views on the bald. Plenty of space for a nice picnic lunch and photo ops - plenty of other hikers doing the same but plenty of space for privacy. Hiking back up was a bit of a chore but well worth it. Parking at Clingnan’s Dome like everywhere else in the park is a bit of a nightmare but worth the wait if you can stand it
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A good hike with nice views. The trail goes behind a waterfall and it’s the trail used to get supplies to LeConte so we had a convoy of alpacas/llamas pass by on the decent.
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Absolutely beautiful trail. Bring waterproof boots, trail is very wet. Cliff top trail is an absolute must do.
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The 1st mile or so walking along the water is very easy and very pretty. Continuing on to Indian Flats Falls is not difficult because it’s on an old rail bed. However the unmaintained side trail to the falls is hard to recognize and easily missed. If you get to the next signed trail junction you’ve gone too far.
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Steady uphill climb for ~2.7 miles to the falls. Lots of great water and smaller falls along the way. Well marked and maintained trail.
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Good hike. Didn’t realize there was a grave yard just before campsite 19 which was pretty cool.
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Great hike, but long. Mostly downhill, streams were low, lots of spots to stop and rest. Mikes 6-7 kind of rocky, and could be tricky in high water.
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Beautiful views from the bunion, be sure to sidetrack to the jump off, well worth it. This is not an easy trail, it is moderate to difficult. You gain 1,000 feet of elevation, lose 1,000 feet of elevation, and have to do it all over again coming back. It is also 4.3 miles out / 8.6 round trip. Don't know who tracked this thing but they didn't make it to the Bunion.
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The hike to the falls is easy. Sometimes there is a waterfall, most of the time there is a drip. The entire trail up to LeConte is difficult with very little if any views at all. If you want great views take Alum up. If you don't want to bored coming back down take Bulls head.
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This is still a nice steep trail if you want a good workout. Due to the fire and the closing of the scramble to the last part / best part of the hike, I have given this a 1/5 stars. Used to be 4/5. No views anymore.
★
Absolutely wonderful hike. Plan A was to hike to Alum Bluffs and see if we wanted to go further. Yes, these two Type A's were fine and wanted to go to the end. We headed up LeConte - all the way to the huge cairn at the actual top of LeConte at 'High Top'. What's not to like about a trail that takes you over several split log bridges, an arch with steps carved into it that curl up through it, Alum Bluffs for a nice break and view out over the mountain side, then on to narrow rock ledges with cable hand rails, a beautiful forest to hike through, lots of wooden steps and other steps chiseled into the rock? I will admit that I liked the last 1/2 mile or so that was relatively flat and then the restroom stop at LeConte Lodge. Then on to High Top and then over to Cliff Top for the view and back down. 12+ miles altogether and 2700+' in altitude gain.
Start early to get a parking spot and to beat the crowds. We did it on a week day in August and started up at 8:15. We still had some crowds but not too many.
If you can plan enough in advance, stay overnight at LeConte Lodge. You have to make your reservations well in advance though.
But, don't miss this hike.These two 73-yr olds made it and loved it.
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Great hike up. Starts at entrance next to shitters. Works its way up with some man made steps. One past those the rocks are not to bad to manage. After about 2 miles it becomes up trail smooth and easy. Great day hike.
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Easy hike and worth the trek to the end of the trail. Roughly 80’ waterfall with excellent picture opportunities.
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easy hike if a little sweaty in back portions during summer. reward is 3 beautiful waterfalls and gorgeous creeks. very therapeutic.
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If you get here early you can have this all to yourself and enjoy the pools.
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The hike to Alum Cave is pretty easy but it gets a harder once you go past that point up to the top of Mount La Conte. The top is pretty neat with 8-10 small cabins and places to sit and rest. I went further up from that point to Myrtle Point (about another .7 mi) that had a really nice lookout point.
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Awesome day on the trail! First day on the AT but won’t be the last.
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Great hike for the family. Trail is in good condition and easy to navigate. Hiked on Fathers Day 2019 - flame azaleas on the bald are still in bloom.
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It was much harder than I realized! It was beautiful out, flowers blooming and birds flitting about. We saw a nest with two chicks and eggs, with the momma bird screaming around us to leave. We climbed Lower Mt. Cammerer trail forever, had lunch at the junction of the AT and then proceeded up to the Mt. Cammerer trail junction. After that it’s all a blur...
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The hike was equally as beautiful as it was challenging. Get to the trailhead as early as possible as parking is limited and the trail is popular.
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A great loop from Cades Cove up Rich Mountain. The first mile or so is pretty level, then it gets STEEP for a few miles, then there's a nice ridge line with views (through the trees) both north and south, then a pretty steep descent on a rutted trail full of sharp switchbacks. Crooked Arm Cascades at the end is beautiful, a little bonus after all that hard work. There were lots of trees down across the trail when I went (4/2019) -- most could be scrambled over pretty easily. And lots of small stream crossings, all with easy rock hops.
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This is a good loop -- some trails are wide and well-graded roadbeds, others are narrow single tracks on the edge of a hillside. There's not a lot of steep elevation, but rather a series of up-and-down grades. The weather was rainy but cleared up; Abrams Creek was pretty high so I didn't try to cross at Hannah Mountain, but went on down Tiny Bottoms Trail back to Abrams Creek campsite.
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I'm starting Physical Therapy for my knee so this is a great hike which doesn't stress the knee. Walking along an old logging rail track the gentle uphill from the trailhead to Walnut Bottoms provide great views of the creek. The Midnight Hole is 1.5 miles from the trailhead and, in warm weather, is a great (very cold) refresher. I rated the walk, 11 miles round trip, as a four. And that's only because I prefer being higher up and getting the great views.
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I wouldn't necessarily call this easy. It does have some moderate ups and downs, not horrible, but not entirely easy, either. You will not be alone on this trail. My wife and I hiked this trail on a 50-something degree Saturday between Christmas and New Year's and there were a lot of other people on the trail. It is a well-kept trail though and the payoff at the falls is worth the hike. When we went, the pool at the base of the falls was swollen from a rainy winter, so it was difficult to get very close to the falls, but the view was still good. Be warned, the only way to get to this trail is by way of Cade's Cove Loop Road. This is a 9 mile road that took us a total of a little over two hours to drive do to the stop and go traffic.
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This trail has recently been redone, and the description is accurate. Be aware the very top section, the one described as" the scramble" is currently closed off due to unstable soil as a result of the fire. It is unlikely to be reopened anytime soon. However the trail ends at a beautiful overlook where you can see the chimney, and this makes for a nice hike. This is not a hike for out of shape beginners; it is quite literally a 2 hour walk straight up. When we started, the whole valley was in pea soup fog and it was drizzling. However the trail was above the fog and it was very clear. Typical of the Smokies, the trail is rocky, goes up a lot, and weather is unpredictable, but well worth the effort.
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