17. Old Sugarlands Trail

Old Sugarlands Trail Background

Sugarlands was a thriving community in the early 1800’s. Like most of the mountain region’s residents, farming was the primary vocation of the day. After the Civil War, moonshine entered the picture and some of the people living in remote areas of the Sugarlands turned to bootlegging.

By the turn of the twentieth century, logging changed everything. Due to over-logging and a general sentiment throughout Tennessee and North Carolina that the mountains need preserving, the government created Great Smoky Mountains National Park. However, the creation of the park forced residents out. The Old Sugarlands Trail winds through the area where one of the oldest communities in the Smoky Mountains once stood.

Getting to Old Sugarlands Trail Trailhead

The trailhead for Old Sugarlands Trail is located on Newfound Gap Road (US 441) about 150 yards from Park Headquarters Road. This trail is very convenient both to Gatlinburg and Sugarlands Visitor Center.

• From the Sugarlands Visitor Center: Drive towards Gatlinburg and the trailhead is on the right just past Park Headquarters Road.
• From Gatlinburg: Take the Parkway (US 441) toward the park and the Old Sugarlands Trail trailhead will be on the left, 1.5 miles from traffic light #10. You need to pass the trailhead and turn around on one of the side roads to access parking next to the trail.

Parking at Old Sugarlands Trail

Parking spaces for about five or six cars are available at the trailhead. Under normal circumstances, this is enough parking; unfortunately, not too many people hike this historic trail. If you arrive and the parking spaces are all taken, you can park at the Sugarlands Visitor Center and walk the short distance to the trailhead.

Parking Tag

You will also need a parking tag to hike this trail. Any vehicle parked for more than 15 minutes, anywhere in the park, needs a parking tag.

Here are your options:

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

Purchase parking tags online, at official park visitor centers, at Smokies Life locations, or at kiosks conveniently located throughout the park.

Restrooms

Make sure you use the restrooms at Sugarlands Visitor Center or in Gatlinburg before heading to the trail, there are no restrooms at the trailhead or along the trail. If you need to use the toilet while hiking, you must follow back country regulations. In summary:

• Human waste must be disposed of at least 100 feet from any campsite, shelter, water source or trail and must be buried in a hole at least 6 inches deep.
• Pack it out if you can’t do the first.

Old Sugarlands Trail Description

We are rating this trail “moderate” due to the 1,200’ elevation change. The first 1.5 miles is nearly flat with only a 200’ change in elevation. This initial section follows closely along the West Prong of the Little Pigeon River, offering serene views of the flowing water and opportunities to spot trout or other aquatic life. The path here is shaded by a canopy of hemlock and hardwood trees, with occasional wildflowers like trillium and violets blooming in spring.

However, the next two miles are a different story, with a 1,000’ rise in elevation. The bright side is that the rise is somewhat gradual. As you ascend the western flank of the LeConte Ridge, the trail transitions from riverside to forested uphill terrain, providing glimpses of the surrounding mountains through breaks in the foliage. In autumn, the changing leaves create a vibrant display of reds, oranges, and yellows, enhancing the scenic appeal.

Surface

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. Originally part of Tennessee Route 71 before the construction of Newfound Gap Road, this historic pathway retains its smooth, gravel-like base, making it accessible for a variety of hikers, though roots and rocks may appear in sections.

Historical

Signs along the trail point to the Sugarlands Cemetery, an abandoned schoolhouse, and other points of interest. The cemetery features weathered headstones from the 1800s, offering a poignant reminder of the early settlers. Nearby, remnants of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp from the 1930s include stone foundations and chimneys scattered amid the undergrowth. Further along, hikers can detour to the intriguing Rock House, a natural stone shelter used by early inhabitants, adding an element of exploration.

Equestrians & Wildlife

Equestrians use this trail, so be careful where you step. At mile 3.2, Old Sugarlands Trail intersects with Two Mile Lead Concession Horse Trail. You might see a horse or two in the area. This junction also connects to other paths like the Bullhead Trail, allowing for extended loops. Wildlife sightings are common, including black bears, deer, and turkeys, so maintain a safe distance and store food properly. For the best experience, hike in the morning to avoid afternoon crowds and thunderstorms, and bring plenty of water as there are no sources along the way.

Nearby Points of Interest

• Sugarlands Visitor Center is only a minute or so from the trailhead. Get information, maps, and souvenirs. Park employees are extremely helpful.
• Fighting Creek Nature Trail is another historical trail near the visitor center. Park at the visitor center and enjoy this easy hike.
• Elkmont is 6.0-miles from the visitor center on Fighting Creek Gap Road. This historical community is a must see for visitors to the park.