About Cold Spring Gap Trail
Cold Spring Gap Trail is a long way from any road. It links the Hazel Creek Trail with the Welch Ridge and Bear Creek trails, dropping or climbing about 2,400 feet over 4.3 miles. Most people use it as part of a multi-day loop in the Fontana backcountry.
The hike
The route climbs steeply from Hazel Creek up to the ridge, through hardwood forest and then higher, cooler woods. It requires map skills and a boat shuttle or a very long hike to reach.
When to go
Spring and fall are best; summer is humid.
Getting there
Start at the Hazel Creek boat landing (see the Hazel Creek Trail page); the park's Fontana page has shuttle information. 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. Overnights need a backcountry permit. Check the closures page.
Pair it with
Other hikes in the same part of the park:
- the Appalachian Trail from Fontana Dam: a climb toward the Shuckstack fire tower
- Wolf Ridge Trail: a strenuous climb from Twentymile
- Twentymile Loop Trail: a quiet connector near the Twentymile trailhead
Planning and safety
Plan on a long day and pack accordingly: more water than seems reasonable, real food, a warm layer, a rain shell and a headlamp. Start at first light if you can, and turn around if the weather or your energy changes.
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 Cold Spring Gap Trail?
- Cold Spring Gap Trail is 4.3 miles one way, with about 2,400 feet of climbing. It is rated strenuous.
- 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.
