Brushy Mountain Trail

Overview

Brushy Mountain tops out in a classic heath bald with big Smokies views and a satisfying sense of effort well spent. You can reach it two ways: a longer, quieter climb from Greenbrier’s Porters Creek, or a shorter, busier approach via Trillium Gap past Grotto Falls. Either way, expect a steady ascent, lush forest, and a short, view-packed spur to the summit clearing.

Route Options

• From Porters Creek (Greenbrier): About 11.5–11.9 miles round trip with roughly 3,000–3,200 feet of gain. You start on Porters Creek Trail past historic homestead remnants and the Ownby Cemetery, then turn onto Brushy Mountain Trail and grind up the north side of Mount Le Conte. Reach Trillium Gap around 5.5 miles; turn right for the final 0.2–0.4 miles through rhododendron and mountain laurel tunnels to the summit. Plan on roughly 6–7 hours total for most hikers.
• From Trillium Gap (Roaring Fork): About 6.8 miles round trip with 1,700–1,800 feet of gain. The path to 25-foot Grotto Falls is popular (you literally walk behind the falls), then it quiets as you continue to Trillium Gap and on to Brushy Mountain. The last sign may say 0.2 mile; it often feels closer to 0.3–0.4 to the top.

What You’ll See

This one’s about verdant forest and that heath bald finish. Spring brings wildflowers like trillium; old-growth vibes and big eastern hemlocks line parts of the Trillium Gap route. Near the top, rhododendron, mountain laurel, and sand myrtle create green tunnels. At the summit clearing, scan the skyline for Charlies Bunion, Mount Sequoyah, Mount Chapman, Mount Guyot, Mount Le Conte, Webb Mountain, the Greenbrier valley, and even Pigeon Forge on a clear day.

Difficulty and Trail Character

Overall, it’s moderate to strenuous. The Greenbrier side is a sustained climb with rocky sections and switchbacks that add up. The Trillium Gap side is shorter but can be slick near the falls and muddy after rain. Both approaches can have overgrown stretches and occasional blowdowns. Trekking poles are worth their weight on this one; long sleeves help if brush is encroaching.

Best Time to Hike

Late spring and early summer deliver blooms; fall adds color and clearer views. Start early for cooler temps, better parking, and softer light at the summit. Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail (access for Trillium Gap) is typically open spring through late fall and closes in winter; in that season, the Porters Creek approach is the reliable option.

Logistics and Tips

Parking at Trillium Gap fills quickly thanks to Grotto Falls—arrive early. The Roaring Fork road is narrow, one-way, and seasonally closed. The Porters Creek lot in Greenbrier is usually calmer and makes for a more solitude-forward day with bonus historic sites via short spurs. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and expect variable conditions; creek crossings and mud are common after heavy rain.

Note on Pets

Dogs aren’t allowed on this trail (service animals excepted).