Date: May 6th and 7th, 2021
I took in 3 trails on our 2 days in this most visited US National Park
Clingmans Dome
Located in middle of the Park, this paved path attracts a crowd and arguably a cannot miss highlight of the Great Smoky.
Distance: 1 mile RT
Andrew Bald
Distance: 3.6 miles RT
Elevation Gains: 900 feet
This short trail, located in Clingmans Dome area, is mostly tree covered leading to a open area with vista.
Mt. Cammerer
Distance: 11 miles (from Big Creek Campground to Crosby Campground)
Elevation Gains: 4000 feet
Highest Elevation: 5000 feet
I took an unusual route to the summit because of last minute change in plans and a ride arrangement. This one way shuttle allowed me maximum mileage on Appalachian Trail (AT). It started at Chestnut Branch Trail off Big Creek Campground which joined AT after 2 miles.
The path climb doggedly gaining 4000 feet from Chestnut Branch, AT reaching Mt. Cammerer Lookout. It was mostly under canopy with occasional views.
After 3+ miles on AT, a 0.5 mile spur trail divert hikers from AT to Mt. Cammerer Lookout where a group of AT through hikers rested. Starting in Georgia, AT will take these hikers approx. 2200 miles to Maine.
Returning back to AT, hiking north for 2 more miles now mostly descending, I turned off AT to Low Gap trail for 3 miles to reach Crosby Campground.
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