About
Length (round trip)4 mi
ShapeOut-and-Back
DifficultyModerate
Elevation gain830 ft up
Typical time1 hr 30 min
TrailheadKephart Prong trailhead, Newfound Gap Road
SurfaceRoadbed with four log-bridge crossings
Best seasonApril to June for wildflowers, mid-October for fall colour. High elevations are cold and icy from November to March.
DogsNot allowed
AccessibilityTrail includes stairs and five railed footbridges that cross various streams.
What you'll see 🌊 River or creek🏛️ Historic site

Overview Limited parking available at trailhead-consider a shuttle or see below for alternate hikes Follow the flow of mountain streams 4 miles (6.4 km) roundtrip through hardwood forest and across several log footbridges to the remains of a CCC camp and the Kephart Shelter in Great Smoky Mountains National Park . This trail follows the route of a formerly-paved jeep road and includes five railed footbridges that cross various streams. With a total elevation gain of 830 feet (253 m), many find this a leisurely trail. Reservation and backcountry permit required to stay overnight at Kephart Shelter. Length 4 miles (6.4 km) roundtrip Parking & Trailhead Please consider a shuttle or park at Kephart Prong Trailhead at a small, paved pull-off 5 miles (8 km) north of Smokemont Campground on Newfound Gap Road (US 441). Don't forget your parking tag . Nearest Restroom Collins Creek Picnic Area (open seasonally) south of the Kephart Prong Trailhead (restrooms also available at Oconaluftee Visitor Center ) Alternate Hikes Lynn Camp Prong Cascades : 1.4 miles (2.3 km) roundtrip Little River, Cucumber Gap, Jakes Creek Loop : 5.4 miles (8.7 km) roundtrip

Tips
Stone chimneys, a water fountain and the fish hatchery foundations still stand at the camp. The log bridges have a single handrail and get slick.
Location

Kephart Prong trailhead, Newfound Gap Road

Other Hikers
No one has logged this trail yet.
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