Stiffknee Trail #106

Dogs Leashed

Features Commonly Backpacked · Fall Colors · River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Parking available at Farr Gap. Usually hiked as part of a circuit route or access to Slickrock Creek. Plan for extra time, Stiffknee #106 makes most singletrack look like a two lane highway.

Obviously receiving less attention since the reroute of BMT: Segment 18a-18e (Beech Gap to Tapoco Lodge), which used to follow the path of Fodderstack Horse Trail #95 and Stiffknee #106 to beyond. The lower half of this trail would be easy going if not for the maintenance deficit, following and occasionally crossing Little Slickrock Creek.

Using signs from past maintenance such as cut logs can help one stay on path in this dense forest. The forest becomes less choked with dog hobble when the trail starts to incline.

Hike past the side of Stiffknee Top and up to a gap for an incredible view with Calderwood Dam and the Smoky Mountains off in the distance. Continue left to Farr Gap.