About Little River Trail
Little River Trail follows a former logging railroad bed through the Elkmont area, so it is wide and gradual. The National Park Service notes that you pass remnants of the old Elkmont community, such as stone walls and foundations, as you follow the river. The trail runs about 6 miles one way and gains roughly 1,200 feet overall, so you can turn around anywhere.
The hike
The first mile or two is easy, with cascades and swimming holes in summer along the river. Further up the trail narrows and climbs into the backcountry. The same trailhead also gives access to the Little River, Cucumber Gap and Jakes Creek loop of 5.4 miles, a popular shaded loop.
When to go
Spring wildflowers and fall color are the highlights. Elkmont is busy in May and June with firefly season, and weekends fill the lot.
Getting there
Elkmont is off Little River Road about 5 miles west of Sugarlands Visitor Center. The park charges for parking rather than entry: a parking tag is $5 a day, $15 a week or $40 a year, required for any vehicle parked more than 15 minutes. America the Beautiful and other federal passes are not accepted.
Know before you go
Pets are not allowed. Bring water, and watch for bears. Check the Elkmont and Metcalf Bottoms page for current conditions.
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
- Jakes Creek Trail: a climb past historic Elkmont sites
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.
Check conditions the morning you go. The park posts trail and road closures and cautions, and storms, ice and Hurricane Helene repairs can change access with little notice. Carry water, a rain layer and a map, keep a safe distance from bears and elk, and pack out everything you bring in.
Good to know
- How long is Little River Trail?
- Little River Trail is 6.1 miles one way (12.2 miles round trip), with about 1,200 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.
