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 Reporter |
Summary: There are many ways to get to Gregory Bald but only one way to leave; impressed with the beauty and scenery of the Smokies. This is the shortest hike to the bald but you will have a longer drive out due to the one-way road of Parsons Branch. The GBT will continue for 1.2 mi pass the bald to Gregory Ridge Trail but described in this hike to the bald and back. Your hike begins with an easy climb for the first mile. Over the next three miles you will gain over 1700 feet of elevation. One mile later you reach Campsite #13, which is often used if not closed due to bear activity. So if a backpack trip is planned be sure to check well in advance for reservations. From here the original AT ran south to Deals Gap before being relocated for the building of Fontana Dam. You will have a steep half-mile climb to reach the bald. Wonder around this magnificent area for views, you will eventually have to leave so return via the same route. 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. Enter the one way road in Cades Cove, just past the Cable Mill area turn on Forge Creek Road to Parsons Branch Road to Sams Gap trailhead on right. Parsons Branch Road is a one-way road that is closed from Oct to March that exits to US 129 near Fontana NC. Turn right and follow to 411 to Maryville Cades Cove Loop is not open to autos on Wednesdays and Sundays until 10:00 a.m. Optional backpack trip to Campsite #13 is a reserved site by calling the Backcountry Office 865-431-1231 Call for road info as this road is closed sometimes due to weather (Lat:35.54311 Lon:-83.89446) Trail Guides for Gregory Bald Trail: Day Hikes in GSMNP by Johnny Molloy () Day Hikes in GSMNP by Johnny Molloy () Best Seasons: Fall, Spring, Summer, User Groups: Hikers, Horses, Ranger Contact: GSMNP 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 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 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
