Rich Mountain Loop Trail

Famous for it's beautiful meadows packed with wildflowers and small animals.

Plan Around Rich Mountain Loop Trail

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Rich Mountain Loop Trail Details

Famous for it's beautiful meadows packed with wildflowers and small animals, this seldom-traveled trail is also home to the John Oliver Cabin, a popular destination for history enthusiasts. The cabin is the oldest structure in the park, and was the home of a veteran of the War of 1812, and one of the first to settle in the area. The trail contains a steep two-mile climb to some of the best views of Cades Cove, as well as decent views of Townsend and Tuckaleechee Cove. Other highlights include a small waterfall along the trail during the descent into Cades Cove, an old fire tower located midway through the loop, and a number of pileated woodpeckers!

Difficulty

Moderate

Distance

8.6 miles

Estimated time

5 hours

Region

N/A

Nearby Parks Around Rich Mountain Loop Trail

Compare nearby parks around Rich Mountain Loop Trail when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.

14.6 mi away

Great Smoky

National Park · NC

169.1 mi away

Mammoth Cave

National Park · KY

207.9 mi away

Congaree

National Park · SC

380.5 mi away

Shenandoah

National Park · VA

408.8 mi away

Cuyahoga

National Park · OH

409.8 mi away

Gateway Arch

National Park · MO

Nearby Points of Interest Around Rich Mountain Loop Trail

Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Rich Mountain Loop Trail while the map context is still fresh.

0.1 mi away

Cades Cove Road

Excellent for even the most amateur cyclists.

0.1 mi away

Orientation Shelter

Parking and information on the valley's attractions.

0.1 mi away

Cades Cove Riding Stables

Guided horseback rides, hayrides and wagon rides are available.

0.1 mi away

Horseriding

A number of stables provide guided rides, as well as hayrides, wagon and coach drives.

0.1 mi away

Cades Cove Area

Relatively accessible area for disabled visitors.