About Mingus Creek Trail
Mingus Creek Trail is a long, steady climb on the Cherokee side of the park. It starts near Mingus Mill, about 2 miles north of Cherokee, and rises roughly 2,900 feet over 5.8 miles to the Newton Bald Trail. Note that Mingus Mill itself is temporarily closed for preservation work, though the trail begins nearby.
The hike
The trail follows the creek for the first stretch, then climbs through hardwood forest to ridge country. It sees few hikers. It joins the Newton Bald Trail, so you can build a long backpacking route with the Smokemont area.
When to go
Spring and fall are best. Summer is hot at the low end.
Getting there
Follow US-441 north from Cherokee to the Mingus Mill access road. 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, since the creek is not a safe source without treatment. See the Oconaluftee page.
Pair it with
Other hikes in the same part of the park:
- Oconaluftee River Trail: an easy riverside walk that allows dogs
- Kephart Prong Trail: a 4-mile round trip to a CCC camp
- Chasteen Creek Cascade: a 3.6-mile round trip
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 Mingus Creek Trail?
- Mingus Creek Trail is 5.8 miles one way, with about 2,900 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.
