This is a good out-and-back winter hike, in that the trailhead is accessible from Townsend and avoids any potential weather-related road closures within the park. From the trailhead, there is a gradual ascent of about 1200 feet through a mixed hardwood/pine forest, with some good views at this time of year toward Thunderhead Mountain and the crest of the Smokies. After reaching the high point at Chestnut Top, we have about a mile and a half of relatively level (for the Smokies) walking until our turnaround spot at the junction with Schoolhouse Gap Trail. Hike is 8.4 miles, rated moderate. Knoxville hikers can meet at 8:00am at the Kroger 244 S. Hall Road, Alcoa to carpool (roundtrip 40 miles @ $0.07 = $2.80 to the driver), or meet at the trailhead parking lot at the Townsend “Y” no later than 9:00am.

Leader: Keith Blanton and Johnny Lee

Leader contact information is included under Additional Information in the email you receive after registration.