Smokemont Loop Trail

Overview

This is a classic Smokies sampler: a mellow river stroll followed by a purposeful climb and a quiet forested descent. The Smokemont Loop is roughly 6.0–6.5 miles total depending on where you start within the campground; plan on about 6.2 miles and 1,300–1,400 feet of gain for the full loop. Most hikers finish in 3–3.5 hours. The loop links the Bradley Fork Trail (an old road along the creek) with the Smokemont Loop segment.

Route

Start at Smokemont Campground near Cherokee, NC. Look for designated hiker parking near the Bradley Fork trailhead inside the campground. Begin on Bradley Fork, a wide, relatively flat former road that parallels lively water and crosses sturdy footbridges. Pass the signed junction with Chasteen Creek (stay left to remain on Bradley Fork). About a half-mile later, turn left for the Smokemont Loop, cross a long footlog over Bradley Fork, and settle in for the work: more than 1,100 feet of climbing in roughly 1.4 miles on a narrower, rooty tread.

Near the high point, expect intermittent peeks toward the Oconaluftee River Valley and the North Carolina side of the range. As you descend toward the campground, keep an eye out for the small, historic Bradley Cemetery just off the trail. The loop typically ends with a short walk on the campground entrance road back to your parking spot.

Highlights

• Water and woods: The opening miles along Bradley Fork are peaceful and photogenic—great for creekside breaks and spring wildflowers.
• History: Explore the area’s logging-era past and visit the Bradley Cemetery; the Luftee (Smokemont) Baptist Church sits near the campground entrance and is worth a quick look before or after your hike.
• Optional add-on: From the Bradley Fork/Chasteen Creek junction, you can tack on a 1.4-mile round-trip spur to Chasteen Cascades for a waterfall fix.

What to Expect

The climb is sustained but not technical, and the descent can feel steep in spots with leaves or after rain. The footbridge over Bradley Fork is long and narrow—cross single file. Signage around the campground has confused hikers in the past, so read junction signs carefully and confirm you’re on Bradley Fork before turning onto the Smokemont Loop.

Best Time to Hike

Spring is prime for wildflowers—hepatica, violets, trillium, and crested dwarf iris show off along Bradley Fork and higher slopes. Fall brings colorful forest canopies but also slick leaves—trekking poles help. This loop makes a good shoulder-season option and can be appealing when high-elevation roads close for winter weather. Start early for quieter miles along the creek and softer, more flattering light for photos.

Tips

• Go clockwise (Bradley Fork first) for an easy warmup before the big climb.
• Expect potential mud after rain and some horse traffic on adjoining trails—yield appropriately.
• Bears live here; sightings are uncommon, but stay alert and practice standard bear safety.
• If you’re a history buff, budget a few minutes for the cemetery and church area near the trailhead.