Rich Mountain Loop Trail, Smoky Mountain horse hiking trails, Cades Cove hiking horse trails

Rich Mountain Loop Trail

All Smoky Mountain Vacations
214 Sharon Dr.
Seymour, TN 37865

865-609-8930

Rich Mountain Loop Trail is located in Cades Cove on the "Peaceful Side of the Smokies." The Rich Mountain Loop trailhead is located at the beginning of the Cades Cove Loop and is used as a horse and hiking trail. Rated moderate to strenuous, this 7.4 mile round trip hike climbs to the top of Rich Mountain offering spectacular views of the Cove and the Smoky Mountains.

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Follow U.S. 321 to the "Y". Turn onto Laurel Creek Road and continue straight until you reach Cades Cove Loop Rd. Park at the orientation shelter and cross the road to the Rich Mountain trailhead.

Follow Rich Mountain Loop Trail for about half a mile to the junction of Crooked Arm Ridge Trail. Take a left and travel another two and a half miles until you reach the intersection of Indian Grave Gap Trail. Go right and travel a mile to the intersection with Crooked Arm Ridge Trail which will intersect with Rich Mountain Trail and brings you back to your vehicle.

Summer view of the Cove from Rich Mountain Loop Trail

Fall views of the Cove from Rich Mountain Loop Trail

The trail meanders through second growth hardwood forests of black locusts, oaks, white pines and tulip poplars and offers a variety of wildflowers, mountain laurel, wildlife and scenic views overlooking the Cove and the Smokies.

The trail climbs steadily, gaining about 1,500 feet in a little more than two miles with a total elevation gain of 2,922 feet.

Also used as a horse trail, the Rich Mountain Loop Trail is peaceful and usually quiet.

All Smoky Mountain Vacations
214 Sharon Dr.
Seymour, TN 37865

865-609-8930