Old Settlers Trail
Hike through history on the Old Settlers Trail, discovering 1800s settlement ruins amidst lush forests and creek crossings.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Old Settlers Trail
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike through history on the Old Settlers Trail, discovering 1800s settlement ruins amidst lush forests and creek crossings.
"A challenging but rewarding hike with fascinating historical remnants and beautiful natural scenery."
👟 Wear sturdy hiking shoes
Expect creek crossings and uneven terrain. Waterproof boots are a good idea!
🐻 Be bear aware
Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Make noise to avoid surprising them.
Quick Facts
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Settlement Ruins
Along the trail
Discover remnants of 1800s pioneer life, including old chimneys and stone walls. A glimpse into the past!
Lush Forest & Creek Crossings
Throughout the trail
Wander through a beautiful, shaded woodland with multiple stream crossings. A refreshing natural escape.
Barn and River Rock Walls
Along the trail
See a preserved barn and old river rock walls, offering a tangible connection to early Appalachian life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wilderness: Bear Safety First
Trail Conditions & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear sturdy hiking shoes
Expect creek crossings and uneven terrain. Waterproof boots are a good idea!
🐻 Be bear aware
Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Make noise to avoid surprising them.
🗺️ Plan your access point
Some routes may cross private property. Research trailheads beforehand.
💧 Bring plenty of water
This is a strenuous trail, especially the longer sections. Stay hydrated!
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear sturdy hiking shoes
Expect creek crossings and uneven terrain. Waterproof boots are a good idea!
🐻 Be bear aware
Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Make noise to avoid surprising them.
🗺️ Plan your access point
Some routes may cross private property. Research trailheads beforehand.
💧 Bring plenty of water
This is a strenuous trail, especially the longer sections. Stay hydrated!
🌲 Check for downed trees
Obstacles can be common. Be prepared to navigate around them.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the Old Settlers Trail for its historical remnants and beautiful, shaded forest setting with numerous creek crossings. However, many note the trail's strenuous nature, including significant road walking sections and frequent downed trees, which can make it challenging. Some also mention difficulties finding clear access points.
"We stayed at an AirBNB off of Butler Branch Rd and noticed this trail was close by. Did this Black Friday 2024. We parked on the side of Martha McCarter Rd and walked across the highway to the trail access. It’s about a mile or so slog uphill to get to the Old Settlers Trail and a campground on a creek with an old ruined fireplace. Took two 4 year old boys so that’s about all they had in them. Definitely a good choice with no one around if you’re in the area. Also related note: we did not see bears here but did across the highway near our AirBNB, 2 evenings in a row, so they are definitely around."
Joshua Finkelstein
"Good little hike with my 7 yo son. We went about 2 miles in from the Wafloy Village entrance. It was a beautiful wooded area but had a bunch of downed trees in the path. We had to cross 7 creeks in that 2 miles."
Brennen Hodge
"Nice shaded trail easily accessible from highway 321. We walked part of the 15 miles trail while camping at Smokey Bear campground as the trail access was less than 100 yds away. Lush green forest with multiple streams and creeks. There was old river rock walls and an old chimney. The barn was cool as it gives you an idea of life back in the 1800s. Trail is easy to walk, my Labrador loved it..."
Raymond Ingham
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access points can vary. Some hikers park on Martha McCarter Road and cross the highway to reach the trail, while others use entrances near campgrounds like Smokey Bear Campground. Be aware that some routes might involve private property.
Old Settlers Trail is primarily a hiking trail and not suitable for vehicles. The description mentions 'road walking' adding to mileage for some hikers, indicating sections might be old service roads.
The Wafloy Village entrance is accessible from Highway 321. It offers a shaded, wooded area with multiple stream crossings.
Parking availability can be limited and varies by access point. Some areas might have roadside parking, while others may be near campgrounds. It's advisable to arrive early.
Yes, Old Settlers Trail is located near Gatlinburg, Tennessee, within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park area. It's a popular hiking destination for those visiting the region.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Old Settlers Trail is located within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which generally does not require an entrance fee for hiking. However, always check the official NPS website for any current regulations or fees.
Typically, hiking the Old Settlers Trail itself is free as it's part of the national park. However, if you plan to camp at nearby campgrounds, those will have associated fees.
As a natural trail within a national park, Old Settlers Trail is generally accessible year-round during daylight hours. However, access roads might have specific opening and closing times.
While official guided tours specifically for Old Settlers Trail might be limited, local outfitters in Gatlinburg may offer guided hikes in the Smoky Mountains area. It's worth checking with local tourism providers.
There are no age restrictions for hiking Old Settlers Trail. However, due to its strenuous nature and potential obstacles, it's best suited for individuals and families comfortable with challenging terrain.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Old Settlers Trail is a long, point-to-point trail, with some sources indicating it can be around 15 miles or more, especially when including road walking sections.
You might encounter black bears, deer, and various bird species. Remember to maintain a safe distance and never feed wildlife. +1
It's considered a strenuous trail due to its length, potential for downed trees, and creek crossings. Some sections are uphill slogs.
Restroom facilities are generally not available directly on the Old Settlers Trail itself. You might find them at nearby campgrounds or visitor centers.
Look for scenic views of the forest, historic ruins like old chimneys and barns, and the various creek crossings. The natural beauty offers many picturesque moments.
🍽️ 🍎 Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly on the Old Settlers Trail. You'll need to pack your own food and snacks or plan to eat in Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge before or after your hike.
Yes, picnicking is a great option! Pack your lunch and enjoy it at a scenic spot along the trail, perhaps near a creek or a historic ruin. Remember to pack out all trash.
The closest dining options will be in Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge, offering a wide range of restaurants from casual to fine dining.
It is not recommended to drink water directly from the creeks without proper filtration or purification. Always carry sufficient water with you.
No, there are no food vendors on the Old Settlers Trail. It's a natural trail within the national park, so you must be self-sufficient for food and drinks.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and golden hues. Sunrise and sunset can be particularly magical if you're able to access viewpoints.
A versatile setup is ideal. Consider a wide-angle lens for landscapes and forest shots, and a telephoto lens for wildlife. A sturdy tripod can be useful for low-light conditions.
Look for the historic ruins like old chimneys and barns, the numerous creek crossings, and the dense, lush forest. The interplay of light and shadow in the woods is also very photogenic.
Drone usage in national parks is highly restricted. You must adhere to all FAA regulations and obtain necessary permits. Check the Great Smoky Mountains National Park website for current drone policies.
Challenges include uneven terrain, potential for wet conditions, and the need to be bear-aware, which might limit your ability to linger in one spot for extended photo sessions.
Social
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