38. Boogerman Loop via Caldwell Fork Trail
Boogerman Loop is a great historical trail accessed via Caldwell Fork Trail in Cataloochee Valley. Experience more than a dozen creek crossings in one of the best old-growth forests in the Smokies.
Boogerman Loop is a great historical trail accessed via Caldwell Fork Trail in Cataloochee Valley. Experience more than a dozen creek crossings in one of the best old-growth forests in the Smokies.
Little Cataloochee Trail is a moderately difficult trail winding through historic homesteads and across creeks and rivers. Not far from Maggie Valley, Little Cataloochee Trail is popular with equestrians.
The hike to Kephart Shelter is 2.0 miles in each direction. Kephart Prong Trail parallels the Kephart Prong of the Oconaluftee River and is a nice place to enjoy the sites and sounds of the river. In addition, quite a few historical remnants remain from early 20th century buildings.
Wildflowers are in abundance at the trailhead and along the first two miles of the trail. Some say that a spring hike on Porters Creek Trail is unequaled in the Smokies. The best time to see wildflowers is from April to May, although the trail is open year round.
Due to its close proximity to Bryson City and the Deep Creek Campground and picnic areas, this trail is popular with tubers and hikers alike. Beginning at Indian Creek Trail, equestrians also may use the trail.
As you approach Juney Whank Falls, a footbridge allows you to experience the 90’ tall waterfall up close. A bench built into the footbridge is a nice place to sit and cool off while taking in the waterfall.
Grotto Falls is located 1.3 miles from the Trillium Gap Trail trailhead. It is famous for being the only waterfall in Great Smoky Mountains National Park where you can walk behind the falls. You will appreciate the cool, misty spot if you are hiking in the summer heat. Enjoy it, and be safe.
Old Sugarlands is a wide trail and does not have any dangerous drop-offs to worry about. The surface is an old mountain road and still looks like a two-lane road through the woods. Signs along the trail point to the Sugarlands Cemetery, an abandoned schoolhouse, and other points of interest.
Begin your hike on Little River Trail and arrive at Husky Branch Falls after walking 2.1 miles. The waterfall is 20’ tall and is a great place for photos. Walk another 0.3 mile and turn right onto Cucumber Gap Trail.
The highlight of this trail is the water. Several beautiful waterfalls and cascades can be found all along the trail. While Abrams Falls Trail is by far the more popular trail, the waterfalls and water features of Middle Prong Trail are much better. If you want to see water, this is the trail you want to schedule.