About
Length (round trip)4 mi
ShapeOut-and-Back
DifficultyEasy
Elevation gain100 ft up
Typical time2 hr
TrailheadSugarlands Visitor Center
SurfaceWide gravel
Best seasonApril to June for wildflowers, mid-October for fall colour. High elevations are cold and icy from November to March.
DogsLeashed / limited stretches
AccessibilityThis trail is not ADA accessible. This trail has been assessed using the High-Efficiency Trail Assessment Process (HETAP) to provide objective information such as grade and slope. GRIT Freedom Chairs are available for free checkout on a first-come, first-served basis for this trail. The trail is relatively wide and flat, with sections of paved road, crushed stone, roots, and uneven dirt. A few steep sections plus occasional roots and rocks on the trail, but considered a leisurely path that is...
What you'll see 🌊 River or creek🏛️ Historic site🚲 Bikes

Overview Enjoy a pleasant riverside stroll approximately 4 miles (6.4 km) roundtrip through a cove hardwood forest along one of the only dog- and bike-friendly trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park . This trail connects the Sugarlands Visitor Center with River Road in Gatlinburg. Near the visitor center, the trail includes sections of sidewalk and roadside, but after reaching the North District Maintenance Center, it turns into a wide, well-graded dirt path through the woods with a couple notable steeper sections. Historic stone chimneys are visible along this trail. Length Approximately 4 miles (6.4 km) roundtrip Parking & Trailhead Park at the Sugarlands Visitor Center and walk behind the building, past the restrooms, and past the brick headquarters building to the Gatlinburg Trailhead. Trail follows the road before continuing through the forest past the park maintenance area. Don't forget your parking tag . Nearest Restroom Sugarlands Visitor Center Alternate Hikes Oconaluftee River Trail : 3 miles (4.8 km) roundtrip Little River, Cucumber Gap, Jakes Creek Loop : 5.4 miles (8.7 km) roundtrip Big Creek Trail: varying lengths

Tips
Dogs on a leash and bicycles are both allowed here, which is true almost nowhere else in the Smokies. Passes old homesites and chimneys along the West Prong.
Location

Sugarlands Visitor Center

Other Hikers
No one has logged this trail yet.
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