+ 8
Elkmont Loop
Hiking Trail
Hard
24.72 mi
5,019 ft
An epic one or two night backcountry loop starting at the Elkmont Campground.
Beginning at the Elkmont Campground, this circuit is a versatile overnight trip with beautiful rivers, waterfalls, and epic views at the higher elevations! You can hike this exact route, or add in your own unique twist with a side trip to Middle Prong Trail or even Clingmans Dome on the AT! There is plenty of history to be discovered along the way too, including remnants of logging camps or the historic Daisy Town near the campground. This loop is great year-round, and can be completed in one or two nights. There are plenty of campsites in the backcountry and a developed shelter on the Appalachian Trail near Silers Bald. Water is available at the lower elevations, particularly along the Little River and Jakes Creek Trail, but should **always** be treated or filtered first. The route begins at the Elkmont Campground, about eight miles from Gatlinburg. It's listed as "the largest and busiest campground in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park," and it "enjoys a moderate climate, characterized by mild winters and hot, humid summers." [Source]( There are 200 traditional drive-in campsites, plus an additional 20 walk-in sites as of 2020. [Reservtions can be made here]( Worth noting, some trail reports [such as this one]( have reported sightings of wild boar along portions of this route. They are not native to the area and are incredibly destructive. Making loud noises and/or yelling generally deters them, but bear spray and a whistle are highly recommended when hiking in the backcountry. *Dogs are not allowed on any trails within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.* Sources: Written by Brendon Voelker
Beginning at the Elkmont Campground, this circuit is a versatile overnight trip with beautiful rivers, waterfalls, and epic views at the higher elevations! You can hike this exact route, or add in your own unique twist with a side trip to Middle Prong Trail or even Clingmans Dome on the AT! There is plenty of history to be discovered along the way too, including remnants of logging camps or the historic Daisy Town near the campground. This loop is great year-round, and can be completed in one or two nights. There are plenty of campsites in the backcountry and a developed shelter on the Appalachian Trail near Silers Bald. Water is available at the lower elevations, particularly along the Little River and Jakes Creek Trail, but should **always** be treated or filtered first. The route begins at the Elkmont Campground, about eight miles from Gatlinburg. It's listed as "the largest and busiest campground in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park," and it "enjoys a moderate climate, characterized by mild winters and hot, humid summers." [Source]( There are 200 traditional drive-in campsites, plus an additional 20 walk-in sites as of 2020. [Reservtions can be made here]( Worth noting, some trail reports [such as this one]( have reported sightings of wild boar along portions of this route. They are not native to the area and are incredibly destructive. Making loud noises and/or yelling generally deters them, but bear spray and a whistle are highly recommended when hiking in the backcountry. *Dogs are not allowed on any trails within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.* Sources: Written by Brendon Voelker
Created By
Strava Routes
Route and Elevation
Segments
| Name | Distance | Elev. Diff. | Avg. Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| Little River Trail Climb | 0.69 mi | 151 ft | 4.0% |
| Little River Trail Climb | 0.67 mi | 174 ft | 4.9% |
| Appalachian Trail Climb | 0.33 mi | 279 ft | 15.6% |