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Great trail to see the flame azaleas in full bloom overlooking Cades Cove.


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Map Key

7.4

Miles

11.9

KM

Point to Point

4,938' 1,505 m

High

2,779' 847 m

Low

2,433' 742 m

Up

768' 234 m

Down

8%

Avg Grade (5°)

23%

Max Grade (13°)

Dogs No Dogs

Features Fall Colors · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Description

From the trailhead, it's a little over 4 miles to reach the bald. Right before entering the bald you'll pass backcountry campsite #13 which is one of the quietest camping spots you'll find in GSMNP.

If you're planning on completing this trail in a day, start early. Gregory's Bald will get crowded as people travel from all over to see the flame azaleas. The trail is rated strenuous as its been rutted out by horses which makes footing difficult, especially after rainy days.

It's well worth the trip, though, as there is plenty to see from the bald---animals, views, and of course the flame azaleas. Bring insect repellent, the mosquitos can be a tad overwhelming at times.

Lastly, mid to late June is the time to see the azaleas. The view is always great but the colors in June are outstanding!

Contacts

Shared By:

Jeff McCord

Trail Ratings

  4.4 from 7 votes

#1

in Chilhowee

#7960

Overall
  4.4 from 7 votes
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Trail Rankings

#1

in Chilhowee

#139

in North Carolina

#7,960

Overall
4 Views Last Month
3,913 Since Sep 4, 2015
Intermediate/Difficult Intermediate/Difficult

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Photos

Backcountry campsite #13. A short walk to the bald.
Feb 23, 2016 near Wildwood, TN
Sunset on Gregory's Bald. Above the clouds over Cades Cove.
Feb 23, 2016 near Wildwood, TN
Trailhead on Parson Branch Road, Nov. 28, 2018.
Aug 16, 2021 near Maryville, TN
Perfect day hike to Gregory's Bald to see the azaleas. Great Smoky Mountains N.P.
Feb 23, 2016 near Wildwood, TN
Gregory's Bald flame azaleas.
Feb 23, 2016 near Wildwood, TN
Flame azalea on Gregory's Bald.
Feb 23, 2016 near Wildwood, TN

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Check-Ins

Dec 8, 2023
x kegroller
Did the loop, Gregory Ridge, Gregory Bald trail to the AT at Doe Knob, then back to Gregory Bald, then down to Parson Branch Rd. for the return 17mi — 7h 00m
Jul 10, 2022
buddy beavers
8h 00m
Sep 7, 2020
Sara S
wolf ridge to long hungry 1.2mi
Jun 23, 2019
Alex Most
Jan 8, 2019
Robert McDaniel
Jun 24, 2018
John Keoni Cappiello
5mi
Jul 19, 2017
Jennifer E
Jul 3, 2016
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