About Ace Gap Trail
Ace Gap Trail is a quiet backcountry route above the north side of Cades Cove. It runs about 5.3 miles from the Ace Gap trailhead on Rich Mountain Road to the Beard Cane Trail, with modest climbing (roughly 450 feet in this direction, more on the return). It is a good choice if you want solitude near a very busy area.
The hike
The trail follows ridges and hollows through mixed hardwood forest. Expect rocky stretches and a few damp spots. There are no major landmarks; the appeal is quiet forest and the chance to link with Beard Cane or other trails for a longer day. A vehicle shuttle makes it a one-way route.
When to go
Spring and fall are best. Winter can be quiet but muddy.
Getting there
Rich Mountain Road is a seasonal gravel road (open April 10 to Nov. 9 in 2026) that leaves the Cades Cove area toward Townsend. Entry to the park is free, but a parking tag is required if you park more than 15 minutes: $5 a day, $15 a week or $40 a year. America the Beautiful and other federal passes do not count, and the tag has to be displayed in the vehicle.
Know before you go
Pets are not allowed. Bring water, since the trail has little. Check the Cades Cove area page for road conditions.
Pair it with
Other hikes in the same part of the park:
- Abrams Falls: a 5-mile round trip to a 25-foot waterfall
- Cades Cove Nature Trail: an easy loop of about 0.8 miles
- Rich Mountain Loop: a strenuous circuit of about 8.5 miles above the cove
Planning and safety
Allow about two miles per hour on rolling mountain trail, then add time for photos, snacks and rest. Start by mid-morning at the latest so you finish with daylight, and decide on a turnaround time before you leave the car.
Weather in the Smokies changes fast, and it is noticeably cooler as you climb. Bring a rain layer even on a sunny morning, wear shoes with good traction, and carry more water than you expect to need. Black bears live throughout the park, so stay at least 50 yards away, never feed wildlife and store food properly. The park's hiking safety guidance is worth a read before any trip.
Good to know
- How long is Ace Gap Trail?
- Ace Gap Trail is 5.3 miles one way, with about 450 feet of climbing. It is rated moderate.
- Are dogs allowed on this trail?
- No. Inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, dogs are allowed only on the Gatlinburg Trail and the Oconaluftee River Trail.
- Do I need a parking tag to hike here?
- A Park It Forward parking tag ($5 a day, $15 a week or $40 a year) is required for any vehicle parked more than 15 minutes inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Entry is free, and federal passes such as America the Beautiful do not replace the tag.
