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Gregory Bald via Twentymile Loop

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Highlights:

Gregory Bald, bears,blueberries and one of the most popular campsites
Near:Fontana Dam, NC
Scenery:
Distance:15.7 miles round trip
Elevation Gain:4590 ft
Hike Time:9 hours
Difficulty:Strenuous
Trail Condition:Well maintained trail
HikeType:Loop



Summary: The hike begins on the Twentymile Trail and after 0.5 mi you will take Wolf Ridge Trail to the left. The trail will gain over 3000' the next 5 miles to Parsons Bald. The old AT once crossed here to Deals Gap. From Parsons Bald it will be an easy walk to Gregory Bald Trail and #13 if you choose to stay overnight. From here there will be a short climb to Gregory Bald. Eat lunch enjoying 360-degree views and if you’re lucky see a deer or bear. If you can manage to pull yourself away from the bald continue on the GBT to Long Hungry Ridge Trail. You will quickly drop 2000' in 2.5 mi and then it will be level walking for a mile to rejoin Twentymile Trail. There will be a 3-way intersection and be sure to take Twentymile Trail to return and not Twentymile Loop Trail unless you want to extend your hike by 4 miles. After 2.6 mi turn left for 1/2 mile to end the loop.
If you do stay overnight be sure to go to the bald at sunset!

Trailhead: From Maryville take Hwy 411 South to Hwy 129, just past Deals Gap turn left on NC 28 to Twentymile Ranger Station. Parking is on the right just past the ranger station.

Optional backpack trip at Campsite #13
Reservations required and fill out free permit at the Twentynile Ranger Staion
Backcountry Reservations Office 865-436-1231 (Lat:35.46726 Lon:-83.87821)

Trail Guides for Gregory Bald via Twentymile Loop:
Day & Overnight hikes in GSMNP
by Johhny Malloy (Menasha Ridge Press)

Day Hikes in GSMNP
by Johnny Molloy ()

Best Seasons: Year-Round
User Groups: Hikers, Horses,
Ranger Contact: GSMNP General Info 865-436-1200
Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Bobby Trotter, who has posted  74 other hikes on this site
Trail Reviews  Submit your own review
Reviewed by Alex on 9/11/2011
My 9 year old and I just did this. fantastic. climbing up through the "smoke" in the smokies, bears everywhere, and then the look on my sons face on top of the bald as we looked out to a world completely covered by fluffy white clouds below us and the brilliant sun the only thing higher than ourselves was worth all of the work. a nice plus was the wonderful babbling streams along a lot of the loop. leave later in the day and stay at 13.

Reviewed by Matthew on 10/9/2009
Went for a three day backcountry trip staying at campsite 92 the first night and 13 the second. This for me was an ultimate Smokies experience. Gregory bald was incredible and a must see. We camped in early October and had the pleasure of viewing deer, baby boars, a great horned owl and 9 separate bears all in the vicinity of the bald and campsite 13, we even had a mother and 2 cubs greet us atop an acorn tree right outside our tents as we emerged in the morning. Two thumbs up and 5 stars!


Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site.
Keys: North Carolina Hiking, North Carolina Trails, North Carolina Hikes, Graham County Hiking, Graham County Trails, Graham County Hikes


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