Hughes Ridge Trail

Hughes Ridge Trail is a 4.6-mile, one-way point-to-point walk from the Chasteen Creek Trail junction to the Appalachian Trail at Pecks Corner. It climbs, dips, then rises through high backcountry forest. Plan about 3½ hours for this segment alone, with roughly 1,300 feet of ascent. It suits backpackers connecting to the AT; it is a poor choice for a quick roadside hike.

The south end lies several miles beyond Smokemont Campground. One described approach follows Bradley Creek Trail for 1.1 miles, then Chasteen Creek Trail for 4.1 miles, about 5.2 miles before Hughes Ridge begins. A separate approach on Bradley Fork reaches the ridge farther north, near its midpoint; that route's rougher final stretch is steep and rocky. These approaches reach different junctions, so confirm your route and add the access mileage to the 4.6 miles. The small parking area is at the far end of Smokemont Campground's D loop, and a parking tag is required. Pecks Corner is on the AT, not at a road, so plan how your trip continues or returns.

The trail passes the Enloe Creek junction, descends, then climbs again. Around mile 2.5 it meets Bradley Fork and follows a wide old jeep track. The footing gets rocky on the climb to the ridge. Near mile 4.3, a utility shack stands beside the trail; from there, the route continues through spruce forest and climbs to Pecks Corner.

Spring brings flame azalea and mountain laurel. Higher ground supports red spruce and Catawba rhododendron. Cherokee and pioneer families lived in this area before it became part of the national park; the documented trail account gives no specific household or event to look for along the route.

Hughes Ridge is also an equestrian route. Dogs are prohibited on this trail. If you plan to camp at nearby Backcountry Campsite 50 on the approach, reserve the required backcountry permit. The nearest restroom is at Smokemont Campground.