Old Sugarlands Trail

Overview

Old Sugarlands is a history-soaked forest walk hiding in plain sight near Gatlinburg. It’s roughly 3.9 miles one way (about 7.5 miles total out-and-back) with around 1,250 feet of total gain if you start from the Sugarlands side. Expect a broad old roadbed for much of the route—this was once the Sugarlands Road (old TN 71)—with stretches that narrow closer to the river. Traffic noise pops in near the west end, but most of the trail feels surprisingly quiet for its location.

Route and feel

From the Sugarlands end, the trail tracks the West Prong of the Little Pigeon River, crossing a bridge over Bullhead Branch about a mile in before climbing steadily toward Cherokee Orchard. If you start at Cherokee Orchard, you’ll intersect Bullhead Trail in about 0.4 miles, then enjoy a long, mostly downhill cruise toward Sugarlands. Underfoot is generally easy, though it can be muddy around the CCC camp area after rain, and you’ll brush by some poison ivy in places. Plan 3–4 hours for the out-and-back, or shuttle one way for a comfortable net descent.

History highlights you don’t want to miss

This is the Smokies’ past on display: stone walls, foundations, and relics from the vanished Sugarlands community appear along the route—best appreciated when leaves are down. Near 1.4 miles from the Sugarlands side, you’ll pass remnants of a 1930s Civilian Conservation Corps camp, including a memorable stone clock tower. A short, unmaintained side path leads to the Sugarlands cemetery, where pioneer families like the Ogles and Huskeys are buried; tread lightly and be respectful.

Nature notes

Don’t come for big views—come for the soundscape. The river keeps you company, and spring puts on a wildflower show. Wildlife sightings are very possible here; white‑tailed deer are common, and black bears roam this area. Give animals plenty of space.

Best time to hike

Winter and early spring are prime for seeing walls, steps, and foundations through the leafless woods. Summer brings deep shade and cooler river air. Weekday mornings are the quietest. After heavy rain, expect some mud near the CCC site.

Tips and logistics

• Direction: If you want the easy way, hike east‑to‑west from Cherokee Orchard down to Sugarlands and arrange a shuttle. If you’re doing an out‑and‑back, starting at Sugarlands front‑loads the climb so you finish with a descent back to your car.
• Add‑ons: You can stitch this into a bigger day with nearby connector trails to make a loop between Cherokee Orchard, Twin Creeks, and the Gatlinburg corridor.
• Essentials: Bear awareness is a must. Long pants help with poison ivy. After rains, a trekking pole is handy for slick, muddy patches. A parking tag is required if you’ll be parked more than 15 minutes in the park.