Gregory Bald Backpacking Adventure: A Smoky Mountains Loop Experience

Join Us for a One-Night Backpacking Adventure to Gregory Bald in the Smoky Mountains!
Experience the best of the Smokies with a challenging yet rewarding one-night backpacking trip to Gregory Bald. We’ll ascend via the Twentymile Trail, camp near the bald, and return the next day via the scenic Wolf Ridge Trail. This loop offers a quintessential Smoky Mountains experience, with steep climbs, breathtaking views, and stunning natural beauty.
Trip Details

• Parking: Each participant is responsible for purchasing their own parking permit for both days. Link to purchase parking permit.
• Campsite Fee: $8 per person. To confirm your spot, please Venmo the fee to me (@rhammonds100). You will remain on the waiting list until payment is received. I will aim to secure up to 8 campsite permits. Priority will be given based on the order of payment. If I cannot secure you a permit your payment will be refunded.
• Difficulty: This is a very strenuous hike because of the 4000 elevation gain on the first day.

Day 1:

• Meet: Twentymile Ranger Station, no later than 8:45 am.
• Hike: We will begin hiking promptly in a counterclockwise direction toward Campsite 13 near Gregory Bald. Follow Wolf Ridge Trail from the Ranger Station, turn right on Twentymile Trail, left on Long Hungry Ridge Trail, and left on Gregory Bald Trail until we reach Campsite 13.
• Distance & Elevation: About 9 miles, 4,000 feet elevation gain.

Day 2:

• Pack up: Begin hiking out at 9:00 am.
• Return: Head back to Twentymile Ranger Station via Wolf Ridge Trail.
• Distance & Elevation: About 7 miles, mostly down hill.

Hike Overview

• Total Distance: Approx. 15.5 miles
• Elevation Gain: Approx. 4,800 feet
• Difficulty: Strenuous due to the elevation gain and length.

Additional Information

• Bear Cables: All food and backpacks must be hung on the cables provided at the campsite.
• Pets: No dogs allowed in the park
• Route Map: View the route on Gaia GPS.
• Water Availability: While there are usually active streams near the campsite and Gregory Bald, it’s not guaranteed. Be prepared to hike downhill for water if necessary.
• Hiking Precautions: It’s highly recommended to hike in groups for safety. Familiarize yourself with the trails and ensure you can navigate independently if separated. There are a lot of intersections and it can be confusing.

Get ready for a challenging and rewarding adventure in the Smokies!