Jakes Creek Trail

Jakes Creek Trail is a 7.2-mile out-and-back from the Elkmont trailhead to Jakes Gap, about 3.6 miles each way. The route gains roughly 1,850 feet before you turn around, so allow five to seven hours for the climb, a break at the gap and the return. This is the full named trail; the 5.4-mile Little River–Cucumber Gap–Jakes Creek loop uses only a lower stretch of Jakes Creek. Choose that shorter circuit if you want an Elkmont walk without the long ascent.

Start at Jakes Creek Trailhead at the end of Jakes Creek Road. The lower path begins wide and gravelly, passing stone walls and chimney remains from Elkmont’s logging and resort years. After about a third of a mile, Cucumber Gap branches left; Meigs Mountain soon splits right. Stay on Jakes Creek to continue toward the gap. The natural-surface route keeps climbing through the forest, with rockier footing than the flatter Little River section nearby. One portion is also designated for horseback riding, so share the trail with riders.

An unmarked spur off the lower route drops to a footbridge across Jakes Creek, then climbs to Avent Cabin. The 1845 cabin was later used as an art studio by Mayna Treanor Avent. It is a worthwhile side visit if you want Elkmont history, but it is not Jakes Gap and is not included in the 7.2-mile distance.

You retrace the same corridor from Jakes Gap, so the long climb out becomes a sustained descent back to Elkmont. There is no food on the trail; the nearest restrooms are at Elkmont Campground and are seasonal. Pets are not allowed on this route. A parking tag is required if you leave a vehicle for more than 15 minutes.