Hike Schoolhouse Gap Trail

Hike 4.4 miles (7 km) roundtrip on Schoolhouse Gap Trail.

NPS Photo

Overview

The trail follows a wide, mostly gently graded former roadbed offering an experience suitable for hikers of many skill levels. This trail is popular for wildflowers, birding, and horseback riding and traces part of a proposed 1840s road by Dr. Isaac Anderson, who aimed to connect East Tennessee to Hazel Creek. Though the full route was never finished, this trail offers a glimpse into early Smoky Mountain travel.

Schoolhouse Gap Trail is a 4.4-mile roundtrip hike (2.2 miles one way) that offers a peaceful walk with a touch of history and a chance to spot seasonal blooms and wildlife. The trail begins on the north side of Laurel Creek Road, 3.9 miles past the Townsend Wye on the route to Cades Cove.

The trail parallels Spence Branch and reaches Dosey Gap at 1.1 miles, where it intersects with Turkeypen Ridge Trail near a marshy birding area. At 2.0 miles, the trail meets Chestnut Top Trail and ends just beyond at Schoolhouse Gap, near Scott Mountain Trail. 

Length

4.4 miles (7 km) roundtrip

Elevation Gain

503 feet (153 meters)

Parking & Trailhead

Trailhead is located on the north side of Laurel Creek Road, 3.9 miles from the Townsend Wye on the way to Cades Cove. The parking area includes 5 trailer parking spaces and 3 standard vehicle spaces. Park only in designated parking spaces, illegally parked vehicles may be ticketed or towed.Don't forget your parking tag.

Nearest Restroom

Cades Cove Picnic Area

Alternate Hikes

• Lynn Camp Prong Cascades: 1.4 miles (2.3 km) roundtrip
• Little River, Cucumber Gap, Jakes Creek Loop: 5.4 miles (8.7 km) roundtrip

Details

Activity

Hiking

Pets Allowed

No

The Gatlinburg Trail and Oconaluftee River Trail are the only two park trails where pets are permitted. Pets are also allowed in picnic areas, in campgrounds, and on roads.

Activity Fee

Yes

A parking tag is required to park in the Smokies for more than 15 minutes.

Reservations

No

Accessibility Information

The trail follows a wide, mostly gently graded former roadbed offering an experience suitable for hikers of many skill levels.