30. Old Settlers Trail via Maddron Bald Trail

Old Settlers Trail via Maddron Bald Trail

The Old Settlers Trail via Maddron Bald Trail is a captivating journey through the heart of Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP), offering hikers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance.

This point-to-point trail, spanning approximately 17.1 miles, follows an old wagon road and forest path that once served as a vital lifeline for early settlers in the region.

Established as part of the park’s extensive trail system, the Old Settlers Trail is renowned for preserving remnants of pre-park communities, making it one of the most historically rich hikes in the Smokies.

The trail’s name honors the “old settlers” who arrived in the area during the 1830s, primarily small farmers who carved out lives in the fertile valleys along the Little Pigeon River.

These hardy individuals built homes, farms, and communities, thriving until the 1920s and 1930s when the land was acquired through eminent domain for the creation of Great Smoky Mountains National Park in 1934.

The park, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, protects over 522,000 acres of Appalachian wilderness and cultural heritage.

The trail traverses areas once bustling with activity, where families like the McCarters and others raised livestock, grew crops, and established schools and churches.

The trail remains a strenuous endeavor best suited for experienced hikers, with a total elevation gain of around 3,451 feet.

It fluctuates between 1,500 and 2,300 feet, featuring four major inclines and descents.

The path is a combination of forest trail and remnants of old wagon roads, with several footbridges, single-log crossings, and unbridged stream fords that can be challenging after heavy rains.

Hemlock groves, dense rhododendron thickets, and vibrant wildflowers in spring add to the scenic allure, though poison ivy is prevalent from late spring through autumn.

Early winter to early spring is ideal for avoiding this hazard, when foliage is sparse, enhancing visibility of historical sites.

The trail’s historical markers set it apart, showcasing the park’s commitment to preserving Southern Appalachian culture.

Structures like stone walls, chimneys, and home foundations dot the route, remnants of communities displaced during park formation.

Biological diversity is another highlight, with opportunities to spot wildlife such as black bears, deer, and various bird species.

However, the trail sees few hikers, providing a sense of solitude uncommon on more popular paths.

Hikers should check the Smokies road info on X.com/GreatSmokyNPS for real-time conditions, as weather can impact accessibility.

Getting to Maddron Bald Trail

Accessing the Old Settlers Trail via Maddron Bald Trail is straightforward but requires careful planning due to its point-to-point nature.

The primary starting point is the Maddron Bald Trailhead, located near Gatlinburg, Tennessee.

• From traffic light #3 in Gatlinburg, drive east 15.7 miles on East Parkway (US 321-N) to Baxter Road.
• Baxter Road is unmarked, so watch for the Magnolia Tree Restaurant on the left; the road is the next right after passing it.
• Turn right onto Baxter Road and drive 0.3 miles, then turn right again.
• The Maddron Bald Trailhead will be on your left.

IMPORTANT: Old Settlers Trail is a rather long point-to-point trail. Parking at the Maddron Bald Trail trailhead can be difficult and is ill advised. We recommend that you hire a shuttle service to drop you off at the trailhead and then pick you up at the other end. However, if you want to park at the trailhead, make sure you have transportation lined up to bring you back to pick up your vehicle. Also, do not block the road or the trailhead entrance with your parked vehicle.

Alternatively, you may begin at the Greenbrier Cove area off Greenbrier Road, reversing the direction.

• From Gatlinburg’s traffic light #3, take East Parkway (US 321-N) for 6.0 miles to Greenbrier Road, just before the Little Pigeon River Bridge.
• A Great Smoky Mountains National Park entrance sign marks the turn on the right.
• Turn right and drive 3.1 miles to Ramsey Prong Road on the left.
• Turn left and proceed 0.1 mile to the trailhead on the left.

For those coming from other areas, such as Cosby or Pigeon Forge, US 321 provides direct access.

• From Cosby, head west on US 321 toward Gatlinburg and turn left onto Baxter Road after about 12 miles.

The trail is accessible year-round, but winter snow or ice may require traction devices.

Parking

Parking at the Maddron Bald Trailhead is limited and not recommended for long-term stays due to the trail’s point-to-point design.

The small lot can accommodate only a few vehicles, and overflow parking along the road is prohibited to avoid blocking access.

If parking here, ensure your vehicle does not obstruct the trailhead entrance or roadway.

We strongly advise using a shuttle service to drop you off at one end and pick you up at the other, eliminating the need to retrieve your car.

At the Greenbrier Cove end, parking is available near the Ramsey Prong Road trailhead, with spaces for several cars in a designated area.

However, this spot can fill up during peak seasons like spring wildflower blooms or fall foliage.

Parking Tag

A parking tag is required for any vehicle parked in Great Smoky Mountains National Park for more than 15 minutes.

These can be purchased online or at visitor centers for a small fee, with proceeds supporting park maintenance.

• Daily: $5.00
• Weekly: $15.00
• Annual: $40.00 (not available online).

No entrance fee is charged for the park itself, but the tag system helps manage visitation impacts.

To avoid parking stress, consider using shuttle services offered by local outfitters.

These shuttles drop off and pick up at the trailhead, allowing you to focus on the hike without worrying about your vehicle.

During weekends and holidays, expect crowds; mid-week hikes offer a quieter experience.

Restrooms

Restrooms are not available directly at the trailheads or along the Old Settlers Trail, adhering to back country regulations.

• The nearest facilities are at the Greenbrier Picnic Area, about 1 mile before the Greenbrier Cove trailhead on Greenbrier Road. This area offers vault toilets, picnic tables, and grills, making it a convenient stop before starting your hike.
• If starting from the Maddron Bald end, the closest restrooms are in Gatlinburg or at the Cosby Campground, approximately 12 miles east on US 321. Cosby features flush toilets and is open year-round.

For overnight hikers, back country sites like Campsite #33 have no facilities, follow Leave No Trace principles, burying human waste 6-8 inches deep and at least 70 steps from water sources.

Plan accordingly, as the trail’s remote nature means no amenities en route. Hydration stations are absent, so carry sufficient water or a filtration system for stream sources.

No Pets

Pets are strictly prohibited on the Old Settlers Trail and all but two hiking trails within Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

This rule protects wildlife, preserves the natural ecosystem, and ensures visitor safety.

• Dogs, even on leashes, can disturb sensitive habitats, chase animals, or introduce diseases.
• Bears and other predators may view pets as threats or prey, posing risks to both.
• Trained service dogs are allowed, but must have documentation.
• Emotional support animals are not allowed. They are considered pets and must abide by pet regulations.

Per NPS regulations, pets are allowed only in campgrounds, picnic areas, along roads, and in two short trails: Gatlinburg Trail and Oconaluftee River Trail. Violators face fines.

If traveling with pets, board them in Gatlinburg or use pet-friendly accommodations outside the park.

This policy has been in place for decades to maintain the park’s biodiversity.

Old Settlers Trail via Maddron Bald Trail Description

Although included among popular day hikes, the Old Settlers Trail is best completed over two days due to its length and demands.

We recommend overnighting at Back country Campsite #33, roughly halfway.

All overnight campers must reserve a permit via the NPS website at smokiespermits.nps.gov, it’s illegal to camp without one, and sites are limited to designated areas.

Begin on the Maddron Bald Trail, an old wagon road, hiking 1.2 miles to the junction with Old Settlers Trail and Gabes Mountain Trail.

Signage marks the spot; turn right onto Old Settlers Trail. The ensuing 15.9 miles immerse you in Smoky Mountain history and varied terrain.

Rated strenuous due to length, elevation changes, and stream crossings, this trail suits experienced hikers.

Foliage is thick, with hemlock and rhododendron dominating, though poison ivy thrives seasonally, wear long pants and avoid contact.

The surface mixes forest paths, wagon roads, footbridges, and rock-hopping over streams. Be cautious during high water; check forecasts.

Key characteristics include:

• Undulating elevation with four climbs/descents.
• Abundant flora and historical structures, the most in the park.
• Early on, near the junction, explore the Tyson McCarter Place: a drive-through barn, corn crib, smokehouse, springhouse, and nearby cemetery. These date to the late 1800s, showcasing settler ingenuity.

As you progress, side trails lead to more remnants: tall chimneys, stoves, stone walls, and home sites from abandoned communities.

Do not disturb them, it’s illegal and dangerous, as venomous snakes like copperheads hide in rocks. Tennessee law protects ALL snakes.

Mile-by-mile highlights:

• From 0-5 miles: Gentle ascents through forests with creek views; cross Indian Camp Creek.
• Miles 5-10: Steeper inclines, more ruins, and Campsite #33 near Noisy Creek—ideal for rest.
• The latter half: Descends toward Greenbrier, with rhododendron tunnels and wildflowers in spring.

Total time: 9-10 hours one-way; start early.

Wildlife sightings are common, bear-proof food storage is mandatory. Pack essentials:

• Water
• Snacks
• Map
• First-aid kit
• Weather gear

Nearby Points of Interest

• Porters Creek Trail: In the Greenbrier area, is a must for spring wildflowers, historic buildings like a cantilever barn, cemetery, and old clubhouse. It’s a moderate 4-mile roundtrip.
• Ramsey Cascades: A strenuous 8-mile hike to a 100-foot waterfall.
• Albright Grove Loop off Maddron Bald Trail: Featuring ancient tulip poplars.
• The Greenbrier Picnic Area: Offers relaxation post-hike.
• For history buffs, visit the Mountain Farm Museum at Oconaluftee Visitor Center, 20 miles away, depicting pioneer life.