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 Reporter |
Summary: This trail will challenge you but will give something back in the way of different offerings. Spring will give array of wild flowers; summer will provide great shade from the sun while giving blooms of Rhododendron, fall will have more colors than you can count and make this hike in the winter with snow on the mountains it will provide a view of Cades Cove unlike you have ever seen. At the first intersection go left along the wooded trail to John Oliver Cabin then ascend begins for the next 3 miles. A great resting point is the overlook, Cades Cove pastures and Sparks Lane. Next intersection is Indian Grave Trail take it to the right leading to the location of the old fire tower which is a great place for lunch (the trail will fork w/o signs go left). Descend begins now (there are a few views to your left of Red Bank) to Crooked Arm Ridge Trail take it to the right and follow it back to parking area. You may have to navigate 9 possible stream crossings depending on rain 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 Loop. I-40 East (Sevierville) exit #407 Hwy 66 to 441 South through Gatlinburg into the GSMNP entrance then West (Sugarlands Visitor Center) on Little River Road then follow signs to Cades Cove. The Rich Mountain Loop Trail is located across from the information center at the entrance of the Cades Cove Loop. You can park here in the parking lot. (Lat:35.60689 Lon:-83.78787) Trail Guides for Rich Mountain Loop: Day Hikes in GSMNP by Johnny Molloy () 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 Page 2 of 2 Submit your own review 
Reviewed by DP on 11/17/2003 Best hike I've taken in the Smokies. Went second weekend in November. Weather was beautiful, vista were all along the loop since the leaves were down. Camped at site #5 and descended the next day. Bear (Mother w/ cub) was seen along trail on th eway back. 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 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
