Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
Looking for the best backpacking in Pigeon Forge? We've got you covered with the top trails, trips, hiking, backpacking, camping and more around Pigeon Forge. The detailed guides, photos, and reviews are all submitted by the Outbound community.
Top Backpacking Spots in and near Pigeon Forge
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Franklin, North Carolina
Wesser Bald Fire Tower
4.72.36 mi / 807 ft gainThe road leading to the trailhead is rough the last mile, but doable in any car. Just make sure to take it easy going up and be careful, especially if there has been any rain or snow. You will have reached the parking area for the hike once you see a large green Appalachian trail sign and a few...Read more -
Joyce Kilmer-Slickrock Wilderness, North Carolina
Backpack Slickrock Creek Trail #42
30 mi / 3700 ft gain8:30 a.m. and we’re winding our way down Highway 129 near Robbinsville, NC. The fog is still thick over the Little Tennessee River as we slow down crossing the bridge into Graham County. “I think we missed it,” I say as we continue onward. Within minutes the Tapoco Lodge comes into view. My pre-h...Read more -
Lake Santeetlah, North Carolina
Huckleberry Knob
4.81.77 mi / 295 ft gainHuckleberry Knob is the highest point in the Cheoah Ranger District at 5,560 feet, and it offers expansive views of the surrounding Cherokee and Natahala National Forest. The hike is 2.4 miles roundtrip and begins at the parking lot between mile 8 and 9 up an old dirt road. You will go up the di...Read more -
Cullowhee, North Carolina
Exploring two legendary Cherokee sites: Judaculla Rock and Devil's Courthouse, North Carolina
5.00.9 mi / 258 ft gainJudaculla was an ancient Cherokee spirit being and giant. He ruled in western North Carolina in the traditional Cherokee homeland. Once while chasing some hunters, when he jumped to the ground, his hand hit a rock. You can still see the print on Judaculla Rock. It is the most elaborate piece of r...Read more -
Andersonville, Tennessee
Norris Dam State Park Campground Trail
14.6 mi / 2310 ft gainNorris Dam State Park Campground Trail is a loop trail that takes you by a lake located near Rocky Top, Tennessee.Read more -
Franklin, North Carolina
Siler Bald from Wayah Gap
5.03.66 mi / 1060 ft gainThe Appalachian Trail does not need a lot of hype beyond its existing legendary status. However, there are certain parts of it that do stand out as being a little extra special. Siler Bald is one of those spots. A large clearing starting from Snowbird Gap and going all the way up to Siler Bald...Read more -
Franklin, North Carolina
Nantahala National Forest via the Appalachian Trail
4.027.11 mi / 5420 ft gainWinding Stair Gap on Highway 64 is the starting point for this spectacular backpacking trip through the Nantahala National Forest. It's right outside the hiker friendly town of Franklin, NC, so the town is your last chance for a hot meal and any last minute supplies. There is a parking lot at the...Read more -
Franklin, North Carolina
Backpack the Standing Indian Loop on the Appalachian Trail
24 miBegins at the parking lot for the Standing Indian Campground. (No permits are needed to park here) For the first 3.7 miles, take Kimsey Creek Trail, which runs along the water, until you meet up with the AT at Deep Gap. Rolling hills and lots of foliage throughout, leading up to Standing Indian M...Read more -
Canton, North Carolina
Sam Knob and Flat Laurel Creek Loop
4.93.84 mi / 807 ft gainThis is one of my favorite quick "getaway" loops in the Pisgah Ranger District. Turn onto Black Balsam Knob Road (Mile Marker 420 on the Blue Ridge Parkway) go until you reach a dead end and park at the parking lot. You'll see the Sam Knob trail to the right of the public bathrooms. From there, i...Read more