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.
Mouse Creek Falls is accessed via a rather short, moderate hike on Big Creek Trail. A nice 45' tall waterfall as the payoff. Located near Hartford, TN in the Big Creek Campground area.
Hen Wallow Falls is located about 2.1 miles from the Gabes Mountain Trail trailhead. The 95' drop creates a beautiful ice sculpture during winter freezes. A moderate hike taking just 3-4 hours.
Smokemont Loop Trail is a beautiful hike with flowers, trees, and views. The summit provides great views of the surrounding mountains. Crossing the river requires a little dexterity and a smidgen of courage as the bridge is a single log, about 40 feet long and 2 feet wide. I read somewhere that it is the longest footbridge in the park.
Charlies Bunion is a popular rock outcropping destination on the Appalachian Trail, primarily reached by experienced hikers. The hike is not especially strenuous, but a few drop-offs require careful attention. Our rating is moderate, although the second half of the trail is more strenuous.
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.
The 1.7-mile hike listed here is but a taste of the Appalachian Trail. This section begins at the Newfound Gap parking area and ends at the Road Prong Trailhead (Indian Gap parking area).
The 30 minutes allotted for walking the trail does not take into consideration the time needed for looking at the historic buildings. You could spend a couple of hours in total, depending how closely you examine the old structures. In the spring, wildflowers are in abundance throughout the property.
Gatlinburg Trail is one of only two trails in the entire Great Smoky Mountains National Park that allows dogs. In addition, Gatlinburg Trail is one of only four trails in the park where visitors may ride bikes. Begin in Gatlinburg or at the Sugarlands Visitor Center.