Trail Accessibility Information

The following trails have been measured with a High-Efficiency Trail Assessment Process (HETAP) to collect objective trail information. The equipment consists of a pushcart with sensors that collect data like grade, slope, width, and GPS coordinates. Use the descriptions, maps, and photos to determine which hikes are suitable for you.

 

 

The Bradley Fork Trail begins at the far end of Smokemont Campground.

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Bradley Fork Trail, NC

Length: 3.9 mi (6.3 km)
Elevation Gain: 845.8 ft (257.8 m)
Elevation Loss: 94.1 ft (28.69 m)

Take a leisurely stroll on the Bradley Fork Trail to enjoy scenic streams and expansive forests. The initial 3.9 miles (6.3 kilometers) gently follow an old road along the Bradley Fork of the Oconaluftee River. Wide and gravely, this trail includes multiple water crossings with wooden bridges and boasts assorted wildflowers in spring.

The typical grade, or slope, of the first 3.9 miles is 4.5% with a maximum of 17.6%. The typical cross slope, or grade in the trail side-to-side, is 2.8% with a maximum of 17.1%.

The typical width is 10.9 feet (3.33 meters) with a minimum of 2.0 feet (0.61 meters). The trail surface is composed of aggregate material and gravel. The Bradley Fork trail continues at the 3.9 mile mark, but becomes steeper and narrower.

 

 

Little River Trail, TN

Length: 0.9 miles (1.5 kilometers)
Elevation Gain: 160.5 feet (48.9 meters)
Elevation Loss: 1.6 feet (0.48 meters)

The Little River Trail follows its namesake waterway, offering a wide, easily navigable path through the inviting forest. Picturesque boulders scatter the river year-round and wildflowers bloom abundantly in spring.

In the first 0.9 miles measured with the HETAP device, the typical slope is 3.2% with a maximum of 21.7%. The typical cross slope, or grade in the trail side-to-side, is 2.0%, with a maximum of 19.1%.

The typical width of the measured section is 10.6 feet (3.22 meters) with a minimum of 3.3 feet (1.02 meters). The trail surface is composed of aggregate material and gravel. The trail continues for another 1.5 miles to a junction with the Cucumber Gap Trail.

 

The Little River Trail begins at the far end of Elkmont Campground.

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