About Jakes Creek Trail
Jakes Creek Trail starts in the Elkmont area and climbs steadily along a creek, then forks into the high backcountry. The NPS lists the lower part of the trail as one leg of a 5.4-mile Little River, Cucumber Gap and Jakes Creek loop, a pleasant shady loop with streamside views, historic structures and prolific spring wildflowers. The full Jakes Creek Trail runs about 3.6 miles to the junction with Miry Ridge and Panther Creek trails.
The hike
The lower trail passes historic buildings and old roads, and follows the creek. Higher up it narrows and climbs about 1,750 feet to the junction. The upper section is best for hikers prepared for backcountry travel.
When to go
April and May are the best for wildflowers; fall color lights up the upper slopes. Elkmont is busy in firefly season.
Getting there
Elkmont is off Little River Road about 5 miles from Sugarlands Visitor Center. 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 and rain gear. The Elkmont area page lists current closures.
Pair it with
Other hikes in the same part of the park:
- Middle Prong Trail: an easy railroad-grade walk to Lynn Camp Prong Cascades
- West Prong Trail: a 5.4-mile round trip along the river
- Little River Trail: a gentle railroad grade through old Elkmont
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 Jakes Creek Trail?
- Jakes Creek Trail is 3.6 miles one way (7.2 miles round trip), with about 1,750 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.
