Hiking Project Logo

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


Your Rating: Rating Rating Rating Rating Rating      Clear Rating
Your Difficulty:
Your Favorites: Add To-Do · Your List
Zoom in to see details
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

  4.5 from 6 votes

#1

in Chilhowee

#7528

Overall
  4.5 from 6 votes
5 Star
50%
4 Star
50%
3 Star
0%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Trail Rankings

#1

in Chilhowee

#129

in North Carolina

#7,528

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

0%
0%
20%
20%
60%
0%

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

0 Comments

Weather


Current Trail Conditions

Unknown
Add Your Check-In

Check-Ins

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
Josh Hawkins 1
Apr 5, 2015
Dave Emery
I saw some wild boar just short of camp 13.