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 Reporter |
Summary: This hike may should be rated more on the strenuous side for the elevation and miles if you choose to do the loop.Begin the hike on the Gregory Ridge Trail and follow this trail for 4.9 miles before connecting to the Gregory Bald Trail. Turn right and 6/10 of a mile you will enter the Gregory Bald area.This peak offers many photo opportunities during the year,mid June for Azaleas, late August for blueberries and bears and October for fall colors.A great table with a view for lunch is on the North side overlooking Cades Cove or for a more private spot, find the benchmark and near it is a trio of trees providing shade and a cool lunch spot.If you want to make this hike a loop continue on the trail past the benchmark and your rapid descent begins to Sheep Pen Gap and Campsite 12.At the intersection turn right and continue 4 mi to Parsons Branch Road.At the road turn right and follow this one lane road that is now closed,follow it back to Forge Creek Rd and trailhead. Trailhead: Preferred route: I-40 (Knoxville) to 140 East to 129 South follow signs to 411N/321N then continue on 321N to 73 East and you will enter the GSMNP. 7 miles to the Cades Cove,drive to the visitor's center in the Cades Cove Loop. Take the Forge Creek Rd and park at the Gregory Ridge Trailhead. (Lat:35.56242 Lon:-83.84614) Trail Guides for Gregory Bald: Day Hikes in GSMNP by Johnny Molloy () Day & Overnight hikes in GSMNP by Johhny Malloy (Menasha Ridge Press) Best Seasons: Year-Round User Groups: Hikers, Horses, Ranger Contact: Cades Cove Ranger 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 Johnno on 9/3/2008 I've been going to the Smokies every year all my life, and even went to Gregory Bald once on a cloudy August day in 2002. I saw nothing, so I visited again in June 2008 to witness the heralded azaleas. I'll just say that it's my new favorite place. It has everything you could ask for: 360 degree panoramic views of the park, overlooks Cades Cove, wildlife you don't see on the busy trails (bears, deer, wild hogs) the breathtaking and diverse azalea display, and solitude. It truly is a must see for nature enthusiasts! 
Reviewed by Viewer on 1/28/2008 I hiked the Gregory Ridge trail and spent 3 nights backpacking around Gregory Bald 2 summers ago. This is a truly spectacular place. The trail
Reviewed by Mike on 1/16/2008 Did this hike in late June '07, and caught the flame azaleas only slightly past peak. Still outstanding. The view ove Cade's Cove is breathtaking. The first two miles are wonderful, a gentle trail along Forge Creek. Past campsite 12 it gets pretty steep, but be patient, rest a lot, and drink lots of water. Stop and eat a little snack about halfway up and get re-charged. It's well worth the trip.
Reviewed by JTT on 6/10/2007 Good hike, decent challenge. Not many level spots so be prepared. The view at the top is well worth the effort. Bring a bunch of PB & J sandwiches to eat once at the top. It is an awesome picnic area that you will never want to leave.
Reviewed by Stansberry on 9/7/2006 This bald is one of the more scenic and serene summits in the Smokies. It requires patience, since after campsite #12, there is nothing much for 3 miles or so but a consistent uphill hike. If Gregory is crowded and you're looking for isolation, follow the trail for about a mile to Parson Bald (to the southwest), which is much quieter.
Reviewed by Sarah on 7/15/2006 My mother and I took this hike as a tribute to my Grandmother. She loved it so much that she wanted her ashes to be spread there. As the easier Gregory Bald trail was closed, we took the Gregory Ridge Trail. Strenuous is right! This is not a hike for the faint of heart! But the payoff is simply divine. We managed to catch the flame azaleas at their peak! I would rate this a full five stars if I were in better physical condition. The trail is very steep in some locations, and full of rocks, ruts, and roots. WEAR STURDY SHOES!! And furthermore, take more water than you think that you will need (and a little more besides!). 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: Tennessee Hiking, Tennessee Trails, Tennessee Hikes, Blount County Hiking, Blount County Trails, Blount County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||