Great Smoky Trails

Trailhead:

8.6 miles north of Sugarlands Visitor Center on Hwy 441.

Begin at the trailhead, hike 2.2 miles to the bluffs, return via the same route. This is one of the top hikes in the Smokies. Further, the 4.9 mile trail hikes to the top of Mt. LeConte. The elevation is 6593 feet at High Top. Trail maps and guides available from Sugarlands visitor center at the north entrance or Oconaluftee visitor center at the south entrance.

This is a very busy trail. Hike early in the day. Arch Rock, heath balds, Alum Cave Bluffs, great views. USGS

Cabins at Mt. LeConte offer the hiker a fresh cup of hot chocolate upon arrival and warm Hudson Bay Wool Blankets for evening warmth. Lighting is by kerosene, and meals are served in the dinning room. Reservations are booked at least a year in advance. Reservations can be made each year beginning in October at www.leconte-lodge.com.

USGS

Trailhead:

USGS

The long way to Grotto Falls, one of the prettiest waterfalls in the Smokies. From Trillium Gap you can go to the top of Brushy Mountain, which offers a breathtaking view. Begin on the Appalachian Trail near the rest rooms (see image with fence at right) at Newfound Gap on Hwy 441.

This hike requires a second vehicle at the Grotto Falls Parking Area. Head east on the Appalachian Trail from Newfound Gap. Take a left onto the Boulevard Trail. Take a right onto the Trillium Gap Trail at LeConte Lodge. Watch the signs on Trillium Gap to stay on the right trail, and you'll wind up at the Grotto Falls Parking area. Plan to rest and munch down at Myrtle Point.

Great views, Myrtle Point, LeConte Lodge, Trillium Gap, Grotto Falls.

Trailhead:

A meadow in the mountains with one of the most beautiful views anywhere. Forney Ridge trailhead, Clingman's Dome Parking Area. Vehicular access to trailhead restricted during winter months.

Easy, high elevation hike. Fantastic view from the bald. Watch the sun set or gaze at stars from the bald. Remember your flashlight! This hike can be reached from the Clingmans Dome parking lot. Beginning at the Clingman's Dome Parking Area, take the Forney Ridge Trail downhill, past its junction with the Forney Creek Trail. You'll find yourself on the bald within about 1.7 miles, or about half a mile beyond the junction with Forney Creek Trail. Return via the same route.

Campsite 68 on Forney Creek Trail is the closest backcountry campsite. Approximately 2 miles from the bald, this is a good campsite if you want to get views of dawn and dusk at Andrews Bald. USGS

Trailhead:

Chimney Tops Trail, 6.7 miles south of Sugarlands Visitor Center on Hwy 441.

Chimney Tops Trail is short but challenging and a very busy trail. You will acquire great views for brave and strong hikers. Hike early in the day for solitude. Exercise extreme caution on the rocky faces. It is not recommended for winter hiking. Take the Chimney Tops Trail from the trailhead to the end of the trail, a length of 2.0 miles.

The view from the end of the trail is fairly good assuming you get to see it. The area is usually crowded enough that you need to wait your turn before climbing the last section of trail. The hike is an interesting one, but one you may want to avoid on weekends when the park is crowded. USGS

Trailhead:	Appalachian Trail, just to the left of the Clingmans Dome tower. Cars restricted during winter months.
	Fairly easy ridge-top walking with breathtaking vistas on clear days. Views of Cades Cove and Nantahala are incredible.
	Begin by heading west on the Appalachian Trail, proceeding about 2.5 miles to Double Spring Gap. Return via the same route.


		Ray's Lionel® Model Train 1945-2010

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